Episode 60: Johnny Appleseed Museum

Curator's Choice

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the real story of Johnny Appleseed—exploring the man behind the myth. Was he truly the eccentric figure who wore a tin pot as a hat? How did his Swedenborgian faith influence his life's mission? We uncover the origins of this small religious sect, examining Johnny's unique spiritual path and his role in shaping the American frontier.
🍏 Unveiling Johnny Appleseed: Myths, Faith, and Apples 🌱
We discuss Johnny Appleseed's nonlinear journey as an entrepreneur and his deep connection to the Swedenborgian Bible, which guided him in planting apple orchards for pioneers expanding westward in pursuit of Manifest Destiny. The episode also explores how these orchards helped support the westward expansion and highlights a special pewter spoon—diving into its historical significance and how even small, everyday objects can tell powerful stories of the past.
🔗 Episode Links
Johnny Appleseed Education Center and Museum: https://www.johnnyappleseedmuseum.org/
Delights of Wisdom Concerning Conjugial Love: After which Follow Pleasures of Insanity Concerning Scortatory Love, by Emanuel Swedenborg: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/11248

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

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1. Episode 60: Johnny Appleseed Museum (00:00:00)

2. Who is Johnny Appleseed (00:05:26)

3. Swedenborgian Faith (00:08:22)

4. Did He Really Wear a Pot Hat? (00:09:49)

5. The Making of Apple Nurseries (00:16:59)

6. American Dionysus (00:20:24)

7. Swash Letters and Medial S's (00:36:54)

8. Johnny Appleseed Spoon (00:39:53)

9. Museum Events (00:44:48)