From Johnny Appleseed to Hard Cider: A Journey Through America’s Liquid History

Cider – the crisp, refreshing beverage made from fermented apples – boasts a rich history intertwined with the very identity of the United States. But to truly appreciate a good hard cider, we have to delve back into the orchards of the 18th and 19th centuries, and meet a man named John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed.

More Than Just Folklore

Forget the whimsical caricature of Johnny Appleseed skipping through fields with a sack of apple seeds. The real Johnny Chapman was a shrewd businessman and a relentless advocate for apples. He wasn’t just planting trees – he was meticulously selecting specific varieties, a practice crucial for the future of cider making.

Here’s the hardcore knowledge: Apples for eating and apples for cider are very different. Cider apples, unlike their dessert counterparts, are tart, tannic, and pack a punch of acidity – perfect for fermentation. Chapman, with his keen understanding of horticulture, played a vital role in introducing these cider-specific varieties across the American frontier.

Who was Johnny Appleseed?

Johnny Appleseed – Wikipedia

Johnny Appleseed (born Johnathan Chapman; September 26, 1774 – March 18, 1845) was an American pioneer nurseryman who introduced apple trees to large parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Ontario, as well as the northern counties of West Virginia. He became an American legend while still alive, due to his kind, generous ways, his leadership in conservation, and the symbolic importance that he attributed to apples. He was also a missionary for The New Church (Swedenborgian)[1] and the inspiration for many museums and historical sites such as the Johnny Appleseed Museum[2] in Urbana, Ohio.

From Frontier Tipple to Craft Sensation

Cider wasn’t just a tasty beverage for Johnny Appleseed’s time; it was a vital source of hydration and a natural probiotic. With water sources often unreliable, fermented cider offered a safer and more enjoyable alternative. As American cities grew, so did the popularity of cider, evolving from a homemade drink to a commercial product.

Fast forward to today, and cider is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Craft cideries are popping up across the country, experimenting with unique blends and fermentation techniques. But beneath the artisanal labels and trendy flavors, lies the legacy of Johnny Appleseed’s foresight. The specific apple varietals he championed over two centuries ago are still the backbone of the American cider industry.

The next time you raise a glass of hard cider, take a moment to appreciate the man who helped plant the seeds – literally and figuratively – for this delicious American tradition.

Looking for more?

Explore different cider varietals and find a local cidery to experience the modern expressions of this historic drink. You might even discover a taste of the American frontier in every sip!

And if you’re ready to elevate your game to Johnny Appleseed status, and take your final form as a cider maker, not a taker, consider this Make Your Own Cider at Home kit.