Samuel Ballton
Here’s a detailed overview of the life and legacy of Samuel Ballton in Long Island, NY:
🧭 Early Life and Escape
Born into slavery in Virginia in 1838 on the plantation of Vincent A. Marmaduke, one of nine children. [huntington...istory.com], [ccesuffolk.org]
Married Rebecca Richardson in April 1861, shortly before Virginia seceded from the Union. [huntington...istory.com]
In June 1862, during a holiday, Samuel and five others escaped by walking ~40–50 miles to reach Union lines near Spotsylvania. [huntington...istory.com]
🛡️ Civil War Service
Joined the Union Army, initially serving as a cook in a Wisconsin regiment. [huntington...istory.com], [ccesuffolk.org]
After enlisting, he succeeded in bringing Rebecca to safety as well. [huntington...istory.com], [ccesuffolk.org]
🌾 Life in Long Island
Settled in Greenlawn, Huntington, NY around 1873. [ccesuffolk.org], [wshu.org]
Began as a tenant/sharecropper for local landowners like Alexander Gardiner. [ccesuffolk.org], [wshu.org]
🥒 The “Pickle King” of Greenlawn
In 1899, produced a record-breaking 1.5 million pickles in one season—gaining the nickname “Greenlawn Pickle King”. [harborfiel...ibrary.org], [ccesuffolk.org]
Introduced disease-resistant cucumber varieties that helped combat crop blights. [cbsnews.com], [huntington...istory.com]
🏡 Community Contribution
Used his farming profits to purchase land and build homes in the growing Greenlawn community; some homes remain standing. [ccesuffolk.org], [litimes.org]
Lived to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary in his Greenlawn home at 75 Boulevard Avenue. [wshu.org], [litimes.org]
🕊️ Legacy and Honors
Passed away in 1917 and is buried at Huntington Rural Cemetery. [ccesuffolk.org], [wshu.org]
In June 2021, a section of Boulevard Avenue in Greenlawn was renamed Samuel Ballton Way to honor his contributions. [cbsnews.com], [litimes.org]
Communities across Long Island celebrate him during Juneteenth and in Black History Month programs. [wshu.org], [longisland...news12.com]
Key Takeaways
Overcame slavery and served in the Union Army.
Became a pioneering and record-setting farmer in Greenlawn.
His innovations and community investments shaped the development of Huntington.
Continues to be honored as a symbol of resilience and accomplishment within the local heritage.
