Harvey Wilson Goodwin was the second child born to Ernest Eugene Goodwin, contractor, and Ella Lorena (Hicks) Goodwin, homemaker. The Goodwin family claimed additional artists in the family besides Harvey. His paternal grandfather made violins, and his cousin, Nat Goodwin, performed as a tragedian actor. Upon graduation from Little Rock High School In 1930, Goodwin attended business school and subsequently accepted a clerical position in Washington, D.C. He enrolled in dance lessons at the Hazel Richard Dance Studio. At this studio, he made his debut as a semi-professional female impersonator in 1933, performing a song and dance routine. Goodwin’s youthful talents were noticed by many. In fact, in January 1934, Goodwin was asked to perform in costume at one of the first of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s birthday balls.
(Harvey’s papers are referenced as ualr.ms.0112. Find out more by visiting the finding aid online.)
