The idea of Johnny Appleseed brings up a pretty universal image: a poor looking dude walking around chucking seeds out of a sack.
But Johnny Appleseed was, in fact, far beyond a homeless do-gooder—rather more like the Sam Walton of his time. The imagery of him randomly spreading apple seeds is only part of the picture. Yes he walked barefoot, wearing a cooking pot as a hat (utilitarian all the way) in rags, planting seeds—but this was done methodically, with trees growing into orchards that he maintained, spanning several states and into Canada.
Despite his very casual attire, Johnny was considered a great spirit by everyone—even the most hostile native tribes wouldn’t think of messing with him. Just paying it forward for a guy who’d put out his own fire to help mosquitos, and slept in the snow to avoid disturbing a bear (although I’m not sure if this one is commendable or just common sense).
Part of the reason everyone loved him so much? The apples weren’t for eating, they were for cider—the alcoholic kind. Yes, many a weary frontiersman gladly swung open doors upon hearing the approaching Johnny yell “Shots! Shots! Shots! Shots! Shots! Shots!”
He felt that marriage would be selfish, so his entire 1,200 acre estate was left to his sister. The secret to his business success? Keep your overhead expenses low.
