James J. H. Gregory

James J. H. Gregory
Gregory at Amherst College (class of 1849)
Born
James John Howard Gregory

(1827-11-07)November 7, 1827
DiedFebruary 20, 1910(1910-02-20) (aged 82)
Marblehead, Massachusetts, U.S.
Burial placeWaterside Cemetery, Marblehead, Massachusetts
Other names"Seed King of Marblehead"
Alma mater
Occupations
  • Educator
  • businessman
  • writer
  • politician
  • philanthropist
Known for
  • Seed company
  • Philanthropy
TitleMassachusetts State Senator
Term1876–1877
Spouses
Eliza Candler Bubier
(m. 1863; died 1876)
    Harried Roundey
    (m. 1878; died 1894)
      Sarah Lydia Caswell
      (m. 1895)
      Children4 (adopted)
      Signature

      James John Howard Gregory (November 7, 1827 – February 20, 1910) was an American educator, horticultural businessman, writer, politician, and philanthropist from Marblehead, Massachusetts. Gregory started his career as a public school teacher and later served as a principal. In 1854, he founded a successful seed company, introduced innovations like seed catalogs and developed notable varieties such as the Hubbard squash and cherry tomato. Due to the success of his business, he was known as the "Seed King of Marblehead". Gregory also served as a Massachusetts State Senator (1876–1877) and Marblehead Selectman, advocating for local development and education. A prolific author, he wrote practical gardening guides and supported African American education through the Marblehead Libraries program and school donations.