Alanson Gooding of New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Alanson Gooding was born in Dighton, Massachusetts on March 4th, 1789. He died in New Bedford, Massachusetts on November 18, 1877. Alanson had four brothers that are listed as clockmakers. All were born to Joseph Gooding and Rebeckah Macomber. The four clockmaking brothers are Joseph 1773-1853, Josiah 1777-1867, John 1780-1870 and Henry 1785-1875. It is thought that Alanson trained under his older brother Joseph as a clockmaker. Joseph is reported to have trained under John Bailey II of Hanover, MA. Alanson is listed as a clockmaker, watchmaker and as a merchant working in New Bedford during the period of 1810-1840. A signed tall case clock is also known.

For a more complete reference, please read Paul Foley’s outstanding book, “Willard's Patent Time Pieces.”