A Quilt for Every Occassion
As this year’s exhibit “Artists and Artisans” draws to a close, I would be remiss not to highlight the beautiful quilts we have on display, with even more in our collection. These quilts serve a variety of purposes and tell a myriad of stories. Quilts were created to provide warmth, decorate a space, and to commemorate an event or tell a story.
Glazed Linen Quilt
The oldest quilt in our collection was made in the late 1700s by the great-great-grandmother of Katherine Brewer, and was donated to the Historical Society after winning a ribbon in an antique show. The quilt is a well preserved example of a “glazed linen quilt”. The linen border on this quilt was given its “glazed” finish by running the fabric through a series of heated rollers, which “hardened” the fabric and made it more durable. This large bed size quilt, with its mostly wool construction, was likely created to provide warmth.
Perhaps the most extravagant quilts on display are those known as “crazy quilts”. These quilts feature a wide variety of patterns, fabrics, and colors. Each individual piece is sewn together with different needlework patterns, in an elaborate display of the quilter's skill. This quilting style was popular in the 1880’s, with the quilts serving primarily as show pieces rather than for daily use.
Crazy Quilt close up
Another quilt on display was created by Miss Sarah Weiland, prior to her marriage to A.R. McCoy in 1845. The 8-point star pattern is pieced together with alternating wreath designs sewn into the squares between. This quilt, even though made through a more utilitarian patchwork style, was likely made to demonstrate Miss Weiland’s quilting skills and serve as a wedding present to her husband.
We hope you will stop by the Van Orden Mansion to see the array of quilts on display. The last day to view the Artists and Artisans exhibit will be Saturday October 29th. The Van Orden Mansion is open Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4.
Crazy Quilt
Weiland, 8-point Star Pattern
Weiland, 8-point Star Pattern close-up
