Roland Clement Goodyear
Roland Clement Goodyear was born on December 15, 1882, at Ladle Cove, Newfoundland, the son of Josiah Goodyear and Louisa Highmore Wellon. He was the eldest of seven children.
In 1900, at the age of 18, Roland began his career in the lumbering business as an apprentice for the Lewis Miller Company at Norris Arm and Millertown. In 1902, he acquired his own contracts for cutting and hauling wood at Red Indian Lake to supply the sawmill at Millertown. In 1910, together with his father and brothers Joe and Stan, Roland established a diversified business that involved logging contracts, freight handling and the operation of a taxi service and the town hearse. In 1923, the business was incorporated as J. Goodyear & Sons and expanded into general contracting and road construction. In the late 1930's, Roland also became involved with the Island Timber Company, and throughout the 40's, 50's and 60's, J.Goodyear & Sons continued to construct roads throughout the Island.
In 1958, at the age of 76, Roland formed a new company, Central Enterprises, to consolidate and operate his lumbering, fishing and gravel pit interests. The company still exists with Roland's grandson, Ted Goodyear, as its president.
Roland Clement Goodyear died on December 30, 1975.