Born enslaved in 1806, William C. Goodridge was freed in 1822 and began a long, successful career as a businessman. His first enterprise was a barber shop on York's Centre Square. He next opened a five-story retail store on the Square, one of the tallest buildings in York at the time. Goodridge also operated a rail line, which may have provided transport to enslaved people seeking freedom via the Underground Railroad. Following his example and with his help, his sons established the most significant African-American photographic establishments in America.