James John Howard Gregory (November 7, 1827 – February 20, 1910) was an American educator, horticultural businessman, writer, politician, and philanthropist from Marblehead, Massachusetts.

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.

[2] Gregory received his education in the public schools of Marblehead and spent two years studying at Middlebury College.

[1][2] According to legend, Gregory responded to an advertisement in the New England Farmer magazine looking for a good squash seed.

[4] According to the Victory Horticultural Library, Gregory developed the first cherry tomato and was a key distributor of the Danvers onion.

[4] As his business expanded, Gregory took a fish-drying house from Gerry Island to 59 Elm Street in Marblehead for use as a seed drying warehouse.

Gregory was a Republican and served as a Massachusetts State Senator from 1876 to 1877,[8] representing 2nd Essex district.

[8] Gregory actively engaged in philanthropic efforts both in Marblehead and in communities across the United States.

[2][4] In 1880, Gregory anonymously donated funds under the name "Howard" to build a predominantly Black Congregational church in Wilmington, North Carolina, inspired by his support for the American Missionary Association and the needs of newly freed slaves.

[2] In his will, Gregory established a fund in Marblehead that would provide payment to new mothers of twins born within the year.

[13] Gregory Street, which stretches along the Townside Harbor Front in Marblehead, was named to commemorate him.