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Today marks Johnny Appleseed Day. On this day an American Pioneer named Johnny Chapman planted apple seeds everywhere up north in these states: Illinois, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. Therefore, he became known as “Johnny Appleseed.”

Johnny Chapman was born on September 26, 1774. His birthplace is a historic site and the street is now called Johnny Appleseed Lane.  March 11 is when apple planting season begins. Both these dates are observed to celebrate honoring the folklore legend, Johnny Appleseed.  

He was one of the first American conservationist. While the legend says he spread apple seeds everywhere, he didn’t. His intention was to plant nurseries rather then orchards and put fences around the trees to protect from livestock. Then left them in the care of his neighbors and eventually came back in a year or two to tend the trees. 

One logic reason why he planted apple trees was because of a frontier law that enabled anyone to lay a claim to a piece of land by establishing a homestead. A homestead claim was made by planting a fruit tree on any property. Over his lifetime he has accumulated over 12,000 acres of land. 

Keeping his conservationist name intact, he cared deeply for animals, even insects. He observed mosquitoes flying into his campfire on a cool night and stated, 

“God forbid that I should build a fire for my comfort, that should be the means of destroying any of His creatures.”

– Johnny “Appleseed” Chapman

He also made another campfire but found a bear and her cubs all settled together in a snowstorm, so he slept outside in the open air. 

Johnny Appleseed was a legend to many. Many children’s books have been created to educate the community of his story. Anyone can observe this day whether on September 26 or March 11. They can celebrate with an ample amount of apple products such as apple tarts, apple pies and apple cider. So, let’s show some recognition to Mr. Appleseed by pouring glass of cider or planting a tree to cherish this amazing fruit.