Charles C. Leslie
Mariner, entrepreneur. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Charles C. Leslie (b. April 12, 1841) was free African American fisherman, mariner, and businessman in South Carolina.
Charles C. Leslie | |
|---|---|
| Born | Charles C. Leslie April 12, 1841 Chandler, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Fish purveyor, mariner, and businessman. |
Early life
Charles C Leslie was born on April 12, 1841 in Chandler, South Carolina. Leslie received an education at home, including a knowledge of writing and mathematics. His family was Episcopalian.[1]
While still a teenager, Leslie studied the obstacles along the South Carolina coastline and within Charleston Harbor. The well-financed northern fishermen who dominated the supply at seafood market at Charleston avoided the coastline. Meanwhile, Leslie learned that there was little competition in harvesting seafood close to land.[1]
Career
Leslie transported arms to the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.[2]
By the end of the American Civil War, Leslie gained a partner, A. Francis Lopez, with whom he had acquired a fleet of small vessels. They also set up nets on rivers near Charleston, South Carolina, being part of a fishing industry so successful that the South Carolina Legislature regulated catches as an environmental measure. Meanwhile, Leslie and Lopez defended themselves against theft of their harvesting. By the late 1860s, they hired many local fishermen and bought the harvests of independent fishermen. In addition to knowing the local coastal water, they also built competence in keeping fish fresh while storing them and transporting them to the Charleston Market.[3]
Public organizations
Leslie was an officer for the Charleston Chapter of the Prince Hall Masons after it formed in 1867. He was an organizer of the Unity and Friendship Society. Along with other Charleston African Americans, he was a co-founder of St. Mark's Episcopal church. He also promoted Richard H. Gleaves as a candidate for South Carolina Lieutenant Governor. He also was part of local advocacy to legalize phosphate mining on the Coosaw River.[4]
Citations
Bibliography
External links
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