The Knox County Historical Society has announced a celebration to mark the 250th birthday of pioneer resident John Chapman, widely known as Johnny Appleseed.
According to the Knox County Historical Society, a special program will be presented on Wednesday, June 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Knox County Historical Society Museum in Mount Vernon. This presentation aims to honor Chapman's legacy and will feature Ken Hammontree, a historical re-enactor recognized for portraying figures such as George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower.
Chapman was born in late 1774 in Leominster, Massachusetts, and later settled in Mount Vernon around 1806. The Knox County Historical Society notes that he participated in the community’s first election, owned two lots on South Main Street, and became known for traveling long distances to collect discarded apple seeds. These seeds were planted throughout Ohio and beyond to support pioneer families arriving in the region, helping establish apple orchards as both a food source and a symbol of settlement.
The event is free and open to all ages, including individuals, families, and children. Attendees are welcome to explore the museum one hour before the presentation begins and again after it concludes. The society encourages community members to attend and learn about Chapman’s impact on local history.
Located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, the Knox County Historical Society works to increase, interpret, and preserve the history of Knox County. It maintains a collection of local artifacts displayed at its Harcourt Road Museum and the Dan Emmett Birthplace Home. Additionally, it offers a research library for public use, publishes a newsletter, organizes monthly programs, provides educational presentations for organizations, hosts group tours, prepares exhibits on local history, and partners with other groups to create events.
