It is truly a very special event when we can celebrate the 250th birthday of a pioneer resident of Knox County. It was in the closing months of 1774 when John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, was born in Leominster, Massachusetts, beginning his life that would be filled with interesting stories and numerous legends as well. His travels would bring him to the brand new town of Mount Vernon, Ohio, around the year 1806 where he would soon vote in our first election, own two lots on our South Main Street, travel great distances to obtain discarded apple seeds to plant here and throughout Ohio and beyond in his quest to provide apples for the many pioneer families who were soon to settle in our area.

The program will be presented on Wednesday evening, June 11, at 7:30 pm at the Knox County Historical Society Museum, 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 more.

The program is free and open to the public, and all persons, families and children are invited to attend. Visitors may tour the Museum for an hour before and after the presentation.