Johnny Appleseed Country

Does the name “Johnny Appleseed” conjure up images of a rag-tag fellow with a stewpot for a hat and a bag of apples on his back?This caricature, familiar to anyone who has read childhood books, is both popular and misleading. Popular, because it gives instant recognition to Johnny and his travels across the country. But misleading because John Chapman — also known as Johnny Appleseed — was actually a successful businessman who helped many pioneers survive and new communities flourish.

Born right here in Leominster on September 26, 1774, John Chapman made a name for himself across a growing nation. Along the way, he planted apple seeds — not simply scattering them carelessly, but with an eye toward a future market for his crops. He sold, and often gave away, seeds and seedlings to settlers in communities along the way. His nearly 50 years of travels took him far and wide across a young nation.

To learn more about Johnny Appleseed, begin at a spot that bears his name: The Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center on Route 2 Westbound, between Exits 103 and 102. The center is stocked with a variety of books suitable for all ages — from coloring books for kids to more serious historical volumes. A display case serves as home to an assortment of Johnny memorabilia, and visitors can purchase first-day stamped postcards bearing the official Johnny Appleseed postage stamp.

Kids might enjoy having their pictures taken with the bronze statue of a youthful Johnny, standing at the entrance to the center!