Benjamin Jackson (sailor)

Benjamin Jackson (January 2, 1835 – August 20, 1915) was a Canadian sailor and farmer who distinguished himself as a decorated veteran of the American Civil War. Born in Horton Township, Nova Scotia, to parents who had escaped slavery in the United States, Jackson's life was marked by resilience, bravery, and a steadfast commitment to his family and community.

Early Life and Maritime Career

Raised in a small Black Nova Scotian community, Jackson began his maritime career at the age of 16, sailing out of Horton on the brig Chalerodonia under Captain George King. He later served on voyages with Captains John Toy and Benjamin Nason, gaining extensive experience as a seaman. In January 1859, Jackson married Rachel Carter from Windsor Plains, and the couple established a farm in Lower Horton. They had two daughters, Louisa (born 1863) and Georgina (born 1864).

Service in the American Civil War

In December 1863, Jackson traveled to New York City, where he enlisted in the Union Navy on May 21, 1864, during the American Civil War. Serving as a substitute for a drafted American citizen named Lewis Saunders, Jackson likely received a bounty for his enlistment. He was assigned to the USS North Carolina, a receiving ship stationed at the New York Navy Yard, before transferring to the USS Richmond, a steam-powered wooden sloop-of-war operating in the Gulf of Mexico as part of the West Gulf Blockading Squadron under Rear Admiral David Farragut.

As captain of gun No. 10 aboard the Richmond, Jackson played a pivotal role in the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, he disarmed multiple naval mines and, on one occasion, picked up a live shell from the deck and threw it overboard, likely saving the ship and its crew. Following the battle, Jackson participated in the Siege of Fort Morgan, contributing to the Union's efforts to secure the Gulf Coast.

During his service, Jackson developed bronchitis and sustained a serious hand injury, which led to his honorable discharge on June 2, 1865. Despite these challenges, he returned to Nova Scotia with prize money earned from capturing Confederate blockade runners and was later awarded the Civil War Campaign Medal in recognition of his service.

Post-War Life and Legacy

After the war, Jackson resumed his maritime career, undertaking voyages to the United Kingdom and the Mediterranean. He retired from commercial sailing in 1875 and focused on managing his 27-acre farm in Lockhartville. To supplement his income, he worked as a peddler, selling fish, vegetables, and other goods in the surrounding communities.

Jackson and his wife Rachel had three more children: Benjamin B. (born 1868), Margaret M. (born 1871), and James William (born 1872). Tragically, both sons died in childhood. Rachel passed away in May 1913 after 55 years of marriage. In July 1914, Jackson married Mary Eliza Martin, a widow from the area.

Throughout his life, Jackson navigated the complexities of the U.S. Pension Office to secure and maintain his military pension, which provided financial support for over 50 years. His determination in this regard reflects the broader challenges faced by many veterans of the era, particularly those of African descent.

Benjamin Jackson passed away on August 20, 1915, in Lockhartville and was buried beside his first wife, Rachel, in Stoney Hill Cemetery. His funeral was noted as "the largest seen in Lockhartville for many years," a testament to the respect he garnered within his community.

Despite his notable service, Jackson's grave remained unmarked until 2010, when a headstone was unveiled in a ceremony attended by his descendants, local officials, and Civil War reenactors. This recognition was part of broader efforts to honor African Nova Scotians' contributions to history. Today, Jackson's legacy is commemorated through a history marker on the Mathieu da Costa African Heritage Trail and by Ben Jackson Road in Hantsport, Nova Scotia, both serving as enduring reminders of his life and service.