Celebrating the Legacy of Johnny Appleseed

John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed
1774 - 1845

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, Johnny Appleseed Day is celebrated on March 11th, although his birthday is on September 26, 1774. John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed is an American pioneer nurseryman who earned his name by planting small orchards and individual apple trees as he traveled walking across 100,000 square miles of Midwestern wilderness and prairies. He introduced apple trees to large areas in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and many northern counties in West Virginia.

Johnny Appleseed was a dedicated and genuine nurseryman. He loved nature, the wilderness and his knowledge of medicinal herbs, his devotion to the Bible and his harmony with the Indians. Many people believe that he was a fictional character, but this very real man spent 50 years growing apple trees so that people can enjoy this delicious fruit. He lived a simple life. Many believed that he wore his cooking pot on his head as a hat when he traveled. Appleseed died on February 18, 1845 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

I don't know if an apple a day will keep the doctor away, but I do know apples make great pies! YUM!