Goddard family

The Goddards were established at manors in Upper Upham, near Aldbourne, and at Clyffe Pypard (both in Wiltshire) from at least the late 15th century.

Other important manors included Ogbourne St George in Wiltshire, Standen at Hungerford in Berkshire and Stargroves at East Woodhay in Hampshire.

The manor of Upper Upham, in Aldbourne parish south-east of Swindon, was held by Lacock Abbey from the 13th century until the dissolution, then in 1540 was purchased by John Goddard (died 1557).

He later purchased the Crown Inn, renamed the Goddard Arms, which become Swindon's de facto Town Hall, courthouse and council rooms until the mid-19th century.

Today, the wood, lake, sunken garden, elements of the walls and the gateposts at the entrance to The Lawns are all open to the public.

[8] Oliver Cromwell stopped at Stargroves after the second battle of Newbury (27 October 1644), and was entertained by the owner, John Goddard.

[9] In the 1550s, Standen Manor to the south of Hungerford was bought by John Goddard (1511–1567) of Upper Upham House, Wiltshire.