By Blake Jackson
Long before industrial agriculture became a dominant force in the United States, Seabrook Farms was laying its foundation. A new book titled The Spinach King: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty by New Yorker writer John Seabrook revisits this remarkable history.
The book, available June 3, 2025, reveals how Seabrook’s grandfather, Charles F. Seabrook, pioneered large-scale farming practices that changed the way Americans eat.
Often called the “Henry Ford of agriculture,” Charles F. Seabrook modernized farming by introducing mechanized systems, irrigation techniques, and quick-freezing technology.
By the 1950s, Seabrook Farms was responsible for supplying one-third of the country’s frozen vegetables. This innovation made food more accessible and shelf-stable for families across the nation.
But Seabrook’s vision extended beyond farming. He built roads, housing, and created a worker village in southern New Jersey, turning his farm into a self-sufficient agricultural town. This industrial approach not only revolutionized food production but also impacted the lives of thousands of workers and their communities.
Through deep archival research and personal reflection, John Seabrook provides an honest look at his family’s legacy. His book raises questions about the shift from traditional farming to factory-style production and what was lost in the process—especially in terms of labor, food quality, and sustainability.
The Spinach King invites readers to reflect on how the roots of today’s food systems were shaped by bold visionaries like C.F. Seabrook. It’s a must-read for those interested in agriculture, history, and the transformation of rural America.
For more information visit: https://www.johnseabrook.com/
Photo Credit: the-spinach-king
Categories: New York, Business, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables