Quilting sometimes gets a bum rap.  Contrary to the opinions of some, it is actually a fascinating art form, with a very rich history in America.  Even today, there’s nothing more welcomingly cozy and colorful than a quilt when you want to snuggle up at home after a brutal day of winter’s dreary cold.  And they are just as beautiful hanging on a wall or quilt rack.  Quilts are just . . . . homey.  Perhaps that’s why there has actually been a huge resurgence of quilting lately.  You don’t believe me?  Get on Youtube and try to count how many quilting how-to’s you find there.

The Cranford Historical Society is hosting a presentation of “American Quilts and Their History” with Gail Small on Sunday, March 16, 2014 at the Crane-Phillips House Museum from 2:00-4:00PM. Gail Small is a member of the State Quilt Guild of New Jersey, professional speaker, quilter, and historian. Gail has taught classes in her home, sold quilts, and demonstrated quilting at the local fairs for several years. She is always anxious to share her passion for quilting with others, and she will even display several of her most unique quilts and explain the various techniques used to create them.

This program will focus on three different distinct times in American history, and the role quilting played in each of those times.   Visitors can learn about the first designs used in patchwork blocks, why the colonial women loved quilting bees, and what they talked about during the Migration Westward from 1830 to 1860. Then learn about quilting circles during the American Civil War, during which time women on both sides raised money for the war and for their soldiers. Then find out why the 1920’s was an exciting time for women but how things changed during the depression of the 1930’s. Gail will also talk about when the first sewing machine was patented, then eventually modernized, the availability of the first mail-order catalogs, and quilting patterns that were published in newspapers.

Admission is free, thanks to The Cranford Historical Society,  but space is limited,  so reservations are required! To reserve your spot, please call the Historical Society’s office at 908-276-0082,  or email at cranfordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net.

And try to drag someone along who may not be sold on the interesting nature of quilts and quilting.  They are sure to become quilted converts once they learn more about the rich history of quilts in our country.