Johnny Appleseed’s Revolutionary Childhood in Massachusetts

John Chapman has become mythologized as Johnny Appleseed, the man who spread apples throughout the developing west, but his origins begin right here in Massachusetts. Born in September 1774, just months before the battles of Lexington and Concord, Johnny‘s childhood and adolescence were shaped by the events of the American Revolution. This presentation will bring you from his birth in Leominster through his father’s Revolutionary War service and his move to the Springfield area. Cybulski will examine how the Connecticut River Valley town of Longmeadow, Massachusetts provided a backdrop to the Chapmans family struggles in the postwar economy – as well as reveal an intriguing clue about Captain Chapman‘s involvement and Shays Rebellion. How did young Johnny Chapman’s early years in western Massachusetts inspire his life’s journey? Presented by Melissa M. Cybulski, local historian, museum guide, and author Join us in-person or online! If you plan to attend in person at the Museums, tickets are available on the day of the lecture in the Welcome Center. Members: FREE Springfield residents: $4 Nonmembers: $4 To attend via ZOOM, please register in advance. Online Registration