The society was founded in Oklahoma in 1977 as the Goddard Association of America, and has been in continuous existence since that time. In 1995, the board of directors voted to change the organization's name to the Goddard Historical & Genealogical Society.
 
As the name would suggest, we are dedicated to the preservation of the history and heritage of Goddard, Godard and related families. A broad range of surname variants are welcome (see our Surnames page). Current Society members hale from the United States, Canada, Australia and England.
 
Despite abiding interest in history stretching back over several centuries, the GHGS has maintained its presence firmly in the 21st century. The Society's first website was launched in 2001, and its ground-breaking genealogical DNA project in 2004 (see our Goddard DNA Project page).
 
The Goddard Historical & Genealogical Society is all about family. We've published two heavy volumes of The Goddard Book (Vol. II is still available through the Society) and assisted members with their own publishing efforts. Our files, publications and databases include thousands of names and dates, and we can often supply members with genealogical assistance in researching their family trees. We invite you to share information about your family— you may just find an unexpected cousin or two.
 
Members receive a periodic newsletter filled with interesting stories, Goddard history and genealogy. As a member you are encouraged to write articles and submit items for publication. Every few years we sponsor a Goddard Gathering. We share family stories. We make lasting friendships. We have fun. We provide opportunity for members to participate in all aspects of the organization and to serve as officers and committee members.

Please join us! Complete and mail our membership application (with modest fee) to:
GH&GS, PO Box 688, Dandridge, TN 37225, USA
GHGS is chartered in the state of Ohio as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so membership and event registration fees are tax deductible.