Renowned storyteller, author, educator and historian Jerry Apps will celebrate his 90th birthday on Thursday, July 25, 2024. To mark the occasion, Gov. Tony Evers issued an official state of Wisconsin birthday certificate and Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway proclaimed it “Jerry Apps Day” in the City of Madison.

Join PBS Wisconsin in congratulating Jerry on his lifelong dedication to the state of Wisconsin during an accomplished career of publishing books, creating educational work and broadcasting TV programs. His heartwarming, relatable stories of childhood and rural upbringing appeal to farm and city kids alike.

Enjoy these beloved Jerry Apps specials

Jerry Apps: Food & Memories

Jerry Apps and daughter Susan Apps-Bodilly share memories and stories surrounding a cookbook they wrote based on Eleanor Apps’ recipe box.

Jerry Apps: One-Room School

Jerry Apps shares vivid stories from his time as a student at Chain O’Lake School.

Jerry Apps: A Farm Story

The portrait of a farm boy’s childhood in Waushara County is told through his personal memories and photos from the community. Apps evokes memories of a time when almost as many Americans lived on farms as in cities, and examines day-to-day rural life. Fieldwork was done with horses, cows were milked by hand, lanterns were the source of light and community was essential for survival.

What’s next

Meet Me on the Midway: A History of Wisconsin Fairs

PBS Wisconsin is also excited that more Jerry Apps programming is coming! A new documentary based on Jerry’s Wisconsin Historical Society Press book “Meet Me on the Midway: A History of Wisconsin Fairs” is coming to PBS Wisconsin in 2025!