UPDATE – It turns out that there will be more than one opportunity in the coming days to interface with one of Richland County’s most iconic historic characters; information follows below.
As interesting as legend paints the life of John Chapman, known by local pioneer settlers as Johnny Appleseed, his actual life was by many measures even more unique. He is soon to make a return appearance.
An avid animal rights activist, vegetarian, and church missionary, Johnny roamed Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Illinois. In the process he became a land baron and a friend to many. He was particularly important to early Richland Countians.
In early August, you have the opportunity to find out many more interesting facts as you are introduced to the barefoot man himself!
Kenneth Hammontree will portray the man in “An Avenue with Johnny Appleseed,” taking place on Monday, August 5 at the Lucas Community Center. This presentation will also take the place of the regular Bromfield Book Club meeting.
The presentation begins at 6:00 PM.
There is ample opportunity to experience the magic of the Johnny Appleseed story in the area by exploring over 30 miles of the Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway along State Route 39 between Loudonville and Mansfield, and along State Route 603 between the Village of Mifflin and Malabar Farm
A story map is available from the Ohio Department of Transportation, as a 2018 story on 1812Blockhouse shared. It can be found here.
Additional renditions of “An Evening with Johnny Appleseed will take place on the following dates and locations:
- Tuesday, August 6 at 6PM — Madison Branch, Mansfield/Richland County Public Library
- Monday, August 12 at 12:30 PM = Crestview Branch, Mansfield/Richland County Public Library
