L'Hommedieu, Ezra, 1734-1811

Ezra L'Hommedieu (August 30, 1734 – September 27, 1811) was an American lawyer and statesman. He notably served as a delegate to the Continental Congress.

Born in Southold, Long Island, L'Hommedieu was privately educated before going to Yale College, where he graduated in 1754. He read law and established a law practice in Southold and New York City. As a lawyer, L'Hommedieu came to consider British tax legislation oppressive and even "illegal." He became caught up in revolutionary fervor, moving from Long Island to Connecticut after occupation of the former in 1776 by the British, and aiding other refugees get to the northern shore. He became active in provincial and state politics, serving in the State Assembly from 1777 to 1783 and in the State Senate from 1784 to 1792 and again from 1794 to 1809. He also served in local offices, as clerk of Suffolk County from January 1784 to March 1810, and from March 1811 until his death that year. He was appointed by the State Assembly as a delegate to the Continental Congress, serving from 1779 to 1783 and in 1788. He continued to be politically active and in 1801 was a delegate to the state constitutional convention.

L'Hommedieu also developed methods of scientific farming, including the use of seashells to fertilize soils. He corresponded on farming with Thomas Jefferson, particularly about crop pests. L'Hommedieu was active in the community and served in other public positions. He served as Regent of the University of the State of New York, the founding of which he had supported. He died in Southold and was buried at the Old Southold Burying Ground there.