Bio
John Goodall, born on September 30, 1857, in Portland, Oregon, was a significant figure in North Dakota’s livestock industry. He grew up in a family that moved frequently, and at 18, he left home to work in livery barns, overland freighters, and blacksmith shops. His journey took him through Missouri, Idaho, Utah, Texas, and Wyoming before arriving in Dakota Territory, where he began trailing cattle in Texas in 1876. Goodall quickly became an important contributor to North Dakota’s cattle industry, witnessing its growth, peak, and eventual decline.
By 1883, he had risen to the position of foreman and livestock superintendent for the Marquis de Mores’ Badlands ranch. He played a crucial role in organizing the significant 1884 roundup for the Little Missouri Livestock Association, which included notable figures like Theodore Roosevelt. The two became close friends, and Goodall scouted the route for the Marquis’ prairie stage line from Medora to Deadwood, famously riding the first coach in October 1884.
In 1886, John married Mary Coleman in Kansas City, with whom he had three children: Winfield, Clara, and Oliver. After settling in Dickinson, he operated a livery barn. He became active in local politics, serving as one of the first county commissioners for Billings County and later as Stark County sheriff for two terms. In 1891, he and his brother Brooks established the Y Cross Ranch in McKenzie County. He continued to serve the community until his death from stomach cancer on February 2, 1931, at the age of 74.
