Despite the negative stereotype, the watermelon is historically a symbol of liberation and self-reliance for freed-slaves. Growing and selling watermelon allowed formerly enslaved people to assert their independence and agency, transforming the narrative around a crop that had been used to stereotype them. It became a way to reclaim their identity and contribute to their communities.

Many freed slaves began small businesses, selling watermelons at local markets, roadside stands, or through peddling. This not only provided income but also helped them build networks and establish a sense of community.

Overall, watermelon cultivation offered a pathway for entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency for many freed slaves, enabling them to navigate the challenges of post-emancipation life while creating a legacy that would influence Southern agriculture and culture.