MOUNT VERNON — It is truly a special event to celebrate the 250th birthday of a pioneer resident of Knox County.
It was in the closing months of 1774 that John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, was born in Leominster, Massachusetts, beginning a life that would be filled with interesting stories and numerous legends.
His travels took him to the brand new town of Mount Vernon, Ohio, around the year 1806 where he voted in the community’s first election, owned two lots on South Main Street, and traveled great distances to obtain discarded apple seeds to plant here and throughout Ohio and beyond.
It was his quest to provide apples for the many pioneer families who were soon to settle in the area.
The program takes place Wednesday, June 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Knox County Historical Society Museum, located at 875 Harcourt Road in Mount Vernon.
The presentation will feature noted re-enactor Ken Hammontree, who is well-known for his excellent portrayals of historical figures, including George Washington, Dwight Eisenhower, and many others.
The program is free and open to the public; all individuals, families, and children are invited to attend. Visitors may tour the museum for an hour before and after the presentation.
For more information, call 740-393-5247 or 740-397-3503.
Knox Community Hospital proudly supports the vibrant pulse of our community by sponsoring the Life & Culture section on Knox Pages, celebrating the stories and experiences that make our region unique.