Jerry Apps – Historian, Writer, Teacher
Jerry Apps photographed October 6, 2013 on his Waushara County farm.
Born and raised on a farm in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, Jerry Apps has spent his life deeply rooted in the world of agriculture and local history. About to celebrate his 90th birthday on July 25, Jerry can recall what it was like growing up in the Great Depression and World War II. Despite the hardships of the time, Jerry recognizes the ingenuity, hard-work, and love that his parents displayed that made his childhood a happy one. For Jerry, life centered around working the land and the food that it produced, not only because his family’s survival depended on it, but also because food is what brought his community together.
Jerry began his career at the University of Wisconsin working as a County Extension Agent and gradually began his literary career as a Publications Editor for the university, McGraw-Hill Book Company, and other national professional journals. In 1964, Jerry became a Professor of Agriculture at the University of Wisconsin, where he taught for 30 years before becoming professor emeritus.
Jerry published his first book, The Land Still Lives, in 1970, and has not stopped writing since. Having penned over 50 books, including children’s stories and many works on rural history, country life, and the environment, Jerry is now revered as a beloved local historian who has helped preserve the rich agricultural and rural heritage of Wisconsin. His most recent publication, On Farms and Rural Communities: An Agricultural Ethic for the Future, was released in March 2024.
Throughout his career, Jerry has received numerous accolades. He’s been honored with the Distinguished Service Award from UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, was named a Fellow by the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences Arts and Letters, and he was inducted into the Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame.
In addition to his teaching, writing and editing, Jerry has spoken at numerous Wisconsin libraries and historical clubs, and most notably, has helped create over seven-hours-worth of content with PBS Wisconsin.
Jerry’s impact is vast, having inspired thousands of people throughout his life. So much so that Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes Conway declared July 25, 2024 Jerry Apps Day in Madison, marking Jerry’s 90th birthday and his lifelong work.
Reflecting on the honor of having a day named after him, Jerry encourages everyone to share their own stories. He believes in the power of storytelling, emphasizing that a bit of heart and humor can turn an ordinary tale into something meaningful. He hopes his words inspire people to remember and cherish their own memories.
Jerry and his wife, Ruth, have three children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandsons. Today, Jerry and Ruth live at Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale, still sharing memories, writing and enjoying life in community.