The Story of Godwin Singer
Image Description: A vintage photograph of the original owners of Godwin-Singer. (1945)
Before Godwin Singer became a trusted name in engine restoration, its founders were craftsmen shaped by experience and dedication. Barney Forest Godwin, born in 1893 in Pelham, Georgia, grew up with a deep appreciation for mechanics and engineering. His passion led him to St. Petersburg, where he built his career in the growing world of automotive repair. In 1931, he established Godwin Auto Service, laying the groundwork for what would later become an institution in precision engine machining.
After years of honing his craft, Barney partnered with Johnny Singer in 1945, combining their skills to open a small machine and engine repair shop on Burlington Avenue. What started as a modest workshop quickly grew into a full-service operation, expanding to include a parts department, a crankshaft business, and a warehouse. For 37 years, Godwin and Singer built a legacy of precision, quality, and reliability, values that remain at the heart of the company today.
Image Description: A series of vintage photographs of the original owners of Godwin-Singer. (1945)
When the time came to pass the torch, they didn’t sell to just anyone—they handed the business over to those who had worked alongside them, ensuring their legacy remained intact. In 1982, Richard Spencer and Steve Trimm, both longtime employees, took over and carried Godwin Singer into a new era, adapting to changing engine technology while staying true to the craftsmanship that defined the company.
Now, the next generation has stepped up. Anthony and Courtney Cooley have taken the helm, continuing Godwin Singer’s tradition as a family-run business. Like the owners before him, Anthony started as an employee, mastering the craft before becoming the company’s next leader. Today, alongside Courtney and a skilled team, he ensures that Godwin Singer remains a trusted name in marine, industrial, and high-performance engine restoration.
Image Description: Anthony “Tony” Cooley, the current owner of Godwin-Singer. (2025)
From Barney Godwin’s early days in St. Pete to the modern precision machining of today, one thing has never changed—our commitment to quality.
Godwin Singer: Restoring Engines, Preserving Legacy.
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Need expert engine machining or have questions about our services? We’re here to help. Whether you’re looking for engine repairs, precision machining, or full rebuilds, our team is ready to assist.