February 17 – 21, 2004
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These restored messages come from the Quilt History List, an online forum where quilt historians, collectors, researchers, appraisers, and enthusiasts discussed antique quilts and related textiles. The archive dates from 1996 through approximately 2016 and is being restored gradually. Sign up in the form at the bottom of the page if you want to know when a new page is added. Original spelling, opinions, formatting, and inactive links may remain unchanged.
Primary topics of this QHL Digest:
- UGRR Quilt-Code Myth Resurfaces — National media coverage, including an NPR interview with Raymond Dobard, reignites debate over the “Hidden in Plain View” Underground Railroad quilt-code theory, with members pointing to Leigh Fellner’s rebuttal article. (see the article on quilt folklore)
- The DaVinci Code Tangent — A related thread compares Dan Brown’s bestseller to the quilt-code claims, debating where “factual embellishment” crosses into fiction.
- Quilt Collection Travel Planning — Members trade tips for visiting major quilt collections, including the International Quilt Study Center in Lincoln, Nebraska.
- A Rare Cutwork Counterpane — Discussion of an unusual Virginia cutwork bedcover for sale, alongside news of a stenciled Maine bedcloth that sold at auction for $210,000.
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 01:12:09 -0500 | From: “J. G. Row” <JudyGrow@>
Are any of you near Loyola University? Dr Clarice Boswell will be the featured guest at the Loyola University Library Book Club on Wednesday, February 18th. Crown Center Auditorium/Lobby, Lake Shore Campus. 6:00 PM.
>Featured Reading: Lizzie’s Story: A Slave Family’s Journey to Freedom.
>Session Description: >Loyola University Library Book Club presents Dr. Clarice Boswell, a retired >administrator and teacher from Joliet Township High School and the University of >St. Francis, who will talk about her book “Lizzie’s Story, A Slave Family’s Journey >to freedom.” Dr. Boswell will discuss the significance of hidden codes in quilts that >enabled fugitive slaves to follow a safe route to the Underground Railroad and to >freedom. Replicas of pre-civil war quilts will be on display and a book signing and >reception will follow. I found this press release while Googling a reference to Clarice Boswell in the artice from the August 2003 article on Quilt Codes by Mary Ellen Cummings in the Emmitsburg Dispatch, Emmitsburg Maryland. Jan sent us the link to this article.
In the article by MEC is the paragraph:
“In the Catholic Review for April 3, 2003, we learn of a woman in Illinois by the name of Clarice Boswell an African-American who received an inheritance of dozens of quilts from her grandmother. Her grandmother had told her of the “code” quilts, and some of the quilts she now owns were made with some of the patterns that have been questioned by historians.”
On Amazon.com you will find the following:
>Editorial Reviews >Book Description >This book is unique because if its factual embellishment that creates a depth of >interest that will enable the read to visualize imagine and follow the life and impact of >slavery on a family longing for freedom.
Who wrote that sentence!? Was is someone who spoke English as a first language?What exactly is “factual embellishment?”
From another site announcing one of Dr. Boswell’s lectures:
>Clarice Boswell earned her doctorate degree in Adult Continuing Education >through the Leadership and Educational Policy Studies Department at >Northern Illinois University. Boswell is a retired administrator and teacher >from Joliet Township High School and the University of St. Francis.
Googling Dr. Boswell, it is obvious that she is not entirely retired. She has definitely made a second career giving lectures hyping her book.
I wonder whether her grandmother’s name was Ozella.
Judy “the Ringo Kid” in Ringoes, NJ judygrow@
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 03:03:36 -0500 | From: Patricia L Cummings <quiltersmuse@>
Dear list members and Jan:
I believe that Leigh Fellner was the first to publicly mention the “Sue Bonnet” situation in an article for Quiltworks. There is a link to her current website and a version of that article on my website. I had not heard of this interesting connection before she brought it to light.
I tried to activate the link you provide, but only come up with tips on cleaning quilts.
Please let us know when the information you’ve coordinated is “live”. Thanks.
Pat Cummings www.quiltersmuse.com
Jan Dreschler wrote:
This is a small time paper, but here is one amusing article. The author indicates she has researched the claims made by those dismissing the blocks as the wrong era. She discovered the pre-cursor to Sunbonnet Sue. How could we have missed that?
http://www.emmitsburgdispatch.com/
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 17:58:13 +1000 | From: “Quiltstuff” <quiltstuffoptusnet.com.au>
Jan, when I click on the link, I can only find a way to an article about cleaning quilts.. am I missing something. Though I am impressed if the local small paper has a regular quilting section. Suzy > > This is a small time paper, but here is one amusing article. The author > indicates she has researched the claims made by those dismissing the blocks > as the wrong era. She discovered the pre-cursor to Sunbonnet Sue. How could > we have missed that? > > http://www.emmitsburgdispatch.com/ > — > Jan Drechsler in Vermont > Quilt Restoration; Quilting teacher > www.@/~bobmills
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 11:07:40 +0100 | From: Margareta.Faustcec.eu.int
Hi Deb, It would be wonderful to visit this collection! Can you tell us something about lodgings at or near the campus, and how does one get there from an international airport (other than renting a car)?
Margareta (potential trans-Atlantic visitor)
—–Original Message—– From: dsrake@ Sent: Monday, February 16, 2004 7:19 PM To: Quilt History List Subject: [qhl] Quilt fantasy trip
Regarding the quilt fantasy trip, the largest quilt collection is in Lincoln Nebraska. The International Quilt Study Group, located on the east campus of University of Nebraska Lindoln, welcomes visitors to their storage facility every day. They also have some quilts on exhibit and more exhibits planned. If you want to share your enthusiasm for quilts, quilters, and quilt history, this is the place to go.
Deb Rake MA, UNL, 2003–Quilt History
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 10:11:18 -0500 | From: “J. G. Row” <JudyGrow@>
Pat,
If you click on the Emmitsburg Dispatch link you are taken to the home page. Scroll down and on the left, near the circular logo, type the word “Quilt” into the search engine. I came up with many, many articles that Mary Ellen Cummings has written for the paper, including ones titled ” Mourning Quilts”, “Coffin Quilts — A record”, ” Quilt Codes,” “Was there a quilt code, or not?” “Underground railroad codes,”
http://www.emmitsburgdispatch.com/
Does anyone know Mary Ellen Cummings? Strange, the name coincidence.
Judy “the Ringo Kid” in Ringoes, NJ judygrow@
—– Original Message —– From: “Patricia L Cummings” <quiltersmuse@> To: “Quilt History List” <qhl@> Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2004 3:03 AM Subject: [qhl] “Sue Bonnet” connection/ UGRR
> Dear list members and Jan: > > I believe that Leigh Fellner was the first to publicly mention the “Sue > Bonnet” situation in an article for Quiltworks. There is a link to her > current website and a version of that article on my website. I had not > heard of this interesting connection before she brought it to light. > > I tried to activate the link you provide, but only come up with tips on > cleaning quilts. > > Please let us know when the information you’ve coordinated is “live”. > Thanks. > > Pat Cummings > www.quiltersmuse.com > > Jan Dreschler wrote: > > This is a small time paper, but here is one amusing article. The author > indicates she has researched the claims made by those dismissing the blocks > as the wrong era. She discovered the pre-cursor to Sunbonnet Sue. How could > we have missed that? > > http://www.emmitsburgdispatch.com/
From: “Candace Perry”
I was most taken by her comments about pre-Revolutionary War quilt patterns… Candace Perry
From: Judy Schwender <sister3603@>
The International Quilt Study Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln can be reached by cab. However, renting a car is less expensive if you are going to be in town for a couple of days. You should visit the IQSC wesite: www.quiltstudy.org On the left side is a menu; click “Visit Us.” This will show the “Map” and “Tours” links. Check them both out to find transportation information and what will be on exhibit when you might plan to visit. While you are here, you would love visiting the C.Y. Thompson Library, also on east campus. It houses an excellent collection of textile and quilting books. Also, Special Collections and Archives, located in Love Library on the downtown campus houses the Sally Garoutte Core Collection and the American Quilt Study Group Research Library So, put us on your list of places to see! Judy Schwender Graduate Research Assistant International Quilt Study Center
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 17:31:01 -0500 | From: <mreich@>
This article appeared in an 1833 newspaper in Ohio. The report discusses the number of “Old Maids” recorded in the fifth census of the United States. This is not quilt related but it is of some interest for women’s history studies. 1833 was not a Leap Year. Too bad for all of those old maids! This article, also, tells us something about the westward migration patterns of the 2nd quarter of the nineteenth-century. sue reich
The Ohio Repository Canton, Ohio June 28, 1833
Twenty-four thousand Old Maids. It appears by the correct schedule of the fifth census of the United States, that in every section of the country except New England, the free males out number the free females. The excess of free females over free males in New England, 24,638. Excess of free males in the Middle States, 53,944; do. Southern States, 10,536; do. in the Western States, 118,027; do. in the Districts and Territories, 8,979 — making an excess of males over females (in the Middle, Southern, Western and South Western States, Districts and Territories) of 196,176 — and in the whole United States of 171,448. In New York the free males exceeded the fair sex by 32,806; in Ohio by 31,068; in Pennsylvania by 30,548; and in Kentucky by 16,856. But in Massachusetts the females exceeded the males by 14,314; in New Hampshire by 6,397; in Connecticut by 3,156; and in Rhode Island by 3,431.
Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 19:43:55 -0500 | From: “Bonnie Dwyer” <bonniedwyergwi.net>
Hello all QHL-ers,
I will be visiting the Seattle area next week and wonder what quilt and quilt history-related venues I should plan to visit while there.
Bonnie Dwyer, in the frosty Northeast
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 21:40:57 +1100 | From: nomad1@
Dear All, I am so sorry to post this to the list but I have lost Lyne’s email. I need to contact her before she leaves for Oz, so that we can organise dates etc. Thanks for all the fab sharing that you all do. Cheers, Hiranya : >
Hi Lynn, I am slowly but surely catching up with QHL’s. I am so thrilled that you are coming to Oz. I am not sure if you remember me but I have been on QHL for yonks, since it was conceived in fact! : > I lurk on and off and don’t natter as oft as I used to, as I have become busier and also as there are far more interesting people on QHL. If you are interested I would love to meet you and take you around our wonderful city, Sydney. In case you are worried if I am an axe murderer etc please do contact other QHL’ers online such as the famous Xenia, Deborah Roberts and Teddy amongst others, as they have met me at Houston Quilt Fest and Xenia and Deb have dealt with me previously. Kris has not met me but we have nattered on the phone and she can vouch for me too! Melissa Young and her sweet son flew over for my 40th birthday and enjoyed Oz. I also extended my hospitality to Deb when she visited Oz with her cherubs. So…….. the offer is there. Just let me know dates etc so i can get time off work from Uni. Looking forward to catching up with another QHL’er! Smiles, Hiranya Loder from Sydney, Australia : >
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 07:40:36 -0500 | From: Patricia L Cummings <quiltersmuse@>
Dear Judy:
I, too, wondered what “factual embellishment” is. Perhaps this is a new name for fiction? If so, then what the person wrote by way of a story for children is perfectly legitimate. Fairy tales have been written for a very long time, and they do serve a purpose. (For example, when I go into the woods, I always carry a loaf of bread so I can leave a trail of crumbs if I get lost *vbg*).
Are we to believe, on the basis of the other statements, that the same information about quilt codes and blocks has also been passed down through yet another black family? If so, in what geographic area? This could be exciting new information if it is a link to the information presented in Hidden in Plain View. If the “secret code” matches up in its entirety, we could be on to something here.
Did this family know Ozella Williams or her family?
On the other hand, how are we to”buy” any part of the newly presented story of Clarice Boswell when Jacqueline Tobin has said previously that the report of the “Dresden Plate” block having been used as part of the code was a typographical error, perpetrated by the book publishers (as I understand it)? See for yourself what Tobin had to say by clicking on the link to her letter (located at the end of the article I wrote).
I would personally have more reason to believe someone if he/she did not stand to make money from touring the country with lectures and book sales, or in the case of Ozella, selling her quilts. I would be more likely to believe a researcher who had uncovered new information and was passing it along for the sake of scholarship and to expand the thinking of others.
That said, we still need to keep an open mind about the possibility of their having been a secret code. Symbolism in textiles certainly did exist in African textiles. However, to date, I personally am not convinced of the “facts” as some are trying to present them. “Embellished facts”….well, that is another matter altogether, and not particularly germaine to the discussion.
There are those who would use faulty logic in an attempt to turn this whole discussion into an emotionally charged, racial issue, which in itself, it is NOT!
Pat Cummings www.quiltersmuse.com
The argument for the code is getting more and more convoluted. If we do not analyze with scrutiny the contentions of black scholars in the same manner that we would others of any other race, we are engaging in reverse discrimination, if you understand what I mean.
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 07:24:17 -0600 | From: mswaller <mswalleriw.net>
On Tuesday afternoon’s “Talk of the Nation” show on National Public Radio, Raymond Dobard was the last guest. The interview was about 10 minutes and prefaced the talk on quilt codes at the spy museum. No calls or emails from listeners were done during this segment.
You can listen to the interview over the internet at: http://www.npr.org/rundowns/segment.php?wfId=1680140
Mary Waller Vermillion SD USA
> >
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 10:55:06 -0500 | From: “Lynne Z. Bassett” <lzbassett@>
I have recently been corresponding with an education curator at an historical society in New York State, who contacted me because he had gotten wind of the fact that Hidden in Plain View was controversial. I sent him links to the various resources that have been provided by this list recently (thank you very much!), which he was very grateful to receive. He asked me if I had any ideas for a program for fourth graders on escaping slavery that did not involve the quilts; I came up with something that I thought I would share with you in the hope that you all can develop this, improve on it, and share it with other educators.
My thought was to divide the kids into teams and have them run a race modeled on the major routes taken by slaves: going south and blending in, going north by ship, or going north by underground railroad (without the coded quilts). Each team would have a number of members proportional to the actual number of slaves that used that particular route. There would be historically appropriate obstacles along the race course, and they would meet historical figures (like Harriett Tubman, Frederick Douglass, or others who were significant in their particular region). I think this “race” could be adapted for various age levels.
Thanks for your input!
Best, Lynne Bassett
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 12:08:57 -0600 | From: <gingram@>
Re Lynn Bassett’s suggestions for 4th-grade activities that would suggest to students the nature of the experience of runaway slaves, presumably for a museum visit.
One might move by indirection, using fantasy, which all youngsters seem to enjoy.
Create a world in which an individual is set apart by his color, his servitude and lack of access to legal tools, his absence of financial assets, and his dependence on his masters for food, clothing, and shelter. The details of the world should be concrete and provide enough detail to draw the student into its reality. Give it a name, give the subjegated group a name and a color different from that of their masters, etc.
Then provide each student with a lined sheet of paper and a map that resembles but does not replicate the U.S. in the 1840’s. It should indicate the boundaries of the mother country, the relative locations of other, free countries, waterways, main highways, etc.
Allow 10 minutes for writing. Make a big point of time limit(This tends to close down judgmental portion of brain, give prominence to the activities of the image-making faculties).
Then, ask each student to describe in writing how he would respond to this situation, whether he would seek to escape the tyrannical situation, and 1) if not, what actions he would take to endure his situation 2)if he would seek to escape, to describe in detail his plan for escape. Stress that grammar, punctuation, and other conventions don’t matter.
The only rule is that students must keep their pencils moving at all times. If they can’t think of anything to say, they must write, “I can’t think of anything to say.” Be assured that something else will come if they follow this rule. Continue to call attention to time (for reasons above)until the writing period ends.
Most, I assure you, will seek to escape because that path offers more adventure. Some will prefer safety of life and limb to the danger of escape. Thus, you will have created a realistic grouping similar to that in a slave population.
Next, have students read what they have written. Only rule: no negatives, no positives. Everyone just reads what he has written. If anyone sincerely does not wish to share his writing with the group, fine.
After all have read, summarize ideas, asking the group to evaluate each. If, for instance, a student suggests the fleeing person might take a boat to a free country, ask (don’t tell)the group to evaluate the merits of this plan.
Finally, make the link between the world of American slavery and the fictional world. Note how closely the proposed solutions (and lack of solutions—decisions to accept the status quo) correspond with actual historical fact. There will be close parallels.
Then, read aloud and dramatically portions from journals or recollections of runaway slaves.
The object of this exercise would be to lead students to engage personally, though imaginative writing, the world in which slaves lived, thereby creating a desire to learn about a historical period and giving students means by which they might understand the complexity of this period more fully.
And don’t denigrate those few who will chose to stay and adapt. Theirs is a viable choice, one most slaves took.
If handled correctly, this exercise will give each student a more realistic sense of the life of a slave and the options with which he lived. It will also call attention to the courage, cleverness, and values of those who chose to defy the system.
As a final element, the leader might call attention to more recent situations like that in Communist countries, where some individuals chose to risk all for their freedom.
gi
From: “Charlotte Bull” <charloumo-net.com>
re Textile Designs: I bought the hardbound in 1992. Paid $45. Later a used bookstore offered it for $100. I learned much re colors & printing styles & proper terminology. I did actually use it in dating some fabrics! Paperback for $25 is a bargain! Besides, the beauty of the designs is simply inspiring!
re newspaper site: I found the many articles. I did find a quick reference, without details, to Sue Bonnet. I spent several hours reading all of the articles. I did bookmark it. But, Pat, I also was caught by the last name! Also, I was so pleased to see your article on the Harrison block in the current issue of The Quilter magazine.
What was neat was the issue also had one on a guy who paints & carves quilts from wood. Also, there was an article called Bluebonnet Sue!
I’m getting all tangled up in these quilt threads!
Now, off to check out Pat’s pages… cb
From: Judy Knorr <jknorroptonline.net>
I seem to remember that we have a quilter on this list from France. I am looking for a connection to a quilter or quilt shop in France. If you know of anyone I could contact please contact me privately at: jknorroptonline.net
Thanks, Judy Knorr
From: “PeterL” <craftersbigpond.net.au>
we are looking at visiting Hawaii at the end of the month and would like to maximise our quilitng studies while there.
Not to miss suggestions welcome
PeterL
From: “Charlotte Bull” <charloumo-net.com>
You can connect the old clipping re stats on “old maids” to quilting very easily. Check out the quilt block Old Maid’s Puzzle! There is also an Old Maid’s Ramble, Old Maid’s Patience and Old Maid Combination – several different versions of each. There is a Bachelor’s Puzzle. Again, several designs but same name.
From: Marthapatches36@
Welcome to Seattle. There is a quilt show the White River Museum in Auburn, WA I think it runs through mid March. There is a quilt museum in La Conner<WA a lovely small town on the water. Auburn is about 20-25 miles south of Seattle. For more specific e-mail me off line. There are about 30+ older quilts in the show including 5 of mine. Just remember “old is relative First white settlers in this region arrived about 1847”. LaConner is north of Seattle about an hour. It is renown for it’s tulip and daffodil fields. It is a little early for them, Late March through April is the best time to see the fields in full boom. There is a quilt show this Saturday and Sunday at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. It is across the sound from Seattle a 35 minute ferry ride. Heirloom Fabrics in Polsbo can give you direction {a great shop and like La Conner is a nice seaside town. Both have large marina’s} As usual this is somewhat a rainy time of the year. But you never know last week we had two days of over 60. The museum in Auburn might be accessible by Metro Bus. Or maybe we could meet at the bus stop and take you there. The Museum of History and Museum in Seattle has some quilts as does the Wa State Museum in Tacoma. Not many out usually. I have never tried to contact the curator to see if you could see the entire collection. As I say this maybe I should. Our Quilt club meets next Monday night, we are about 180 strong but usually have about 85-95 in attendance. Next meeting is program night. Hope you enjoy your visit here. We have quilt shops galore. Once you are here if you have any questions call me. 253 859 2220 or cellphone 253 334 7872. The latter only works if I’m gone doesn’t get reception in my condo. Hope Mt Rainier is out for you. {Sometimes there are days when you can’t see it due to clouds etc.] Mt Baker is quite beautiful and can be seen on the way and from LaConner. Enjoy your visit here. Martha life time resident of Western WA. P>S> If you want a list of quilt shops just ask.
From: “Kathy Moore” <KathyMooreneb.@>
Hmmmm, factual embellishment. Could that be a euphemism for historical fiction?
Kathy Moore Lincoln, NE
From: “Julia D. Zgliniec” <rzglini1@>
Dear QHL, I wanted to respond to the question re Zigzag stitching even though it is now and old thread – it took me several days to find the item I wanted to describe to you.
I have a leather and cloth “wallet” that belonged to my grandfather. All the thin soft leather binding and edge stitching is done with machine zigzag stitching. My grandfather wrote his name, address and dated this on the inside flap. The date – in faded ink – is March 29 ’86. The location is Danville, Ind.
The documents inside the wallet include his Teacher’s Liscence and exam reports for various years from 1884- 1988 issued by Hendricks Co. IN.
I believe this supports the industrial use of a zigzag machine or attachment in the last quarter 19th century.
Regards, Julia Zgliniec, Poway CA
From: Patricia L Cummings <quiltersmuse@>
Things are getting “curiouser and curiouser”. If you have listened to the npr interview with R. Dobard, (Feb. 17, 2004) from the link provided by Mary Waller (thank you, Mary), you would have found it to be short, and to contain a confusing new message. Dobard says that the “Monkey Wrench” quilt block may not have been named that after all. It might have just been called “Wrench”.
This seems like a pointed attempt to quibble about the details in his book that have come under attack as being implausible. So, now are we to invent new facts, so that everything fits into a tidy little bundle, tied up with a bow?
Of course, he does not share the “new information” with radio listeners. Instead, it was to be revealed, supposedly, if someone paid to hear his lecture that evening.
Pardon me for pointing out the obvious. I am just trying like the devil to make sense of the whole matter, but the (mythological?) story appears to have been given “lip service” in so many print venues, it looks like the tale has taken on a life of its own. To dispute it at all is read as being unfriendly. Perhaps, soon it will be viewed as un-American and not the party line.
One great black historian whom I greatly admire seems to be of the opinion that this situation will never be resolved in a definitive manner.
I am happy that historians are still seeking answers and information about this little known part of American history. Due to the peril involved, important papers were shredded and freed slaves also took on new names, two situations that have been major impediments to locating solid written trails and threads of research.
I would be fascinated to hear the newly discovered “wrench” information. Did anyone attend the lecture? —– Pat
Please click on the link that Mary Wallner provided, to hear not only the Dobard interview, but also one with Katherine Clinton, author of a new book, Harriet Tubman, The Road to Freedom. (one I definitely plan to purchase).
You can listen to the interview over the internet at: http://www.npr.org/rundowns/segment.php?wfId=1680140
Mary Waller Vermillion SD USA
From: Kris Driessen <krisdriessen@>
Has anyone on this list read The Divinci Code? That was a book that used factual people, places and things to weave a fanciful story. I would guess that qualifies as factual embellishment.
Kris
From: Kris Driessen <krisdriessen@>
This one a bit older:
http://www.annonline.com/interviews/990505/
From: “Carol’s Quilt Closet” <imaquilter2@>
If anyone is interested, a lecture and quilt display will take place Tuesday from 7-8 pm, February 24 at the New Britain, CT Public Library, 20 High Street. The program is inspired by the book “Hidden in Plain View”, by Tobin and Dobard. It’s free to the public. Susan Buckley of Berlin will be explaining how colorful quilt squares served as symbols to escaped slaves who followed the Underground Railroad to freedom during the 19th century.
This being such a controversial area and after reading the book and all QHL information it has peaked my interest for more. Farmington, CT and New Haven have a rich history with Underground Railroad so I’m off with a few friends to see what she has to say. If anyone else on the list is close in proximity to the lecture, you need not call to register but if you would like more information, call 860-224-3155, ext 124.
I am so excited to be on this list. I can’t begin to remember all that comes my way so I began a notebook cataloging info. I try to share with a group of special friends that I quilt with every week. We all have unique areas of interest, mine being geneology and quilt history. Keep up all your good works and thank you for sharing.
From: “Candace Perry”
We’re DaVinci Code crazy here! The author, amzingly enough, is a Schwenkfelder descendant. Kris, I would say you’re right about that…and about the book preceding DaVinci Code, Angels & Demons… problem is with both books, it becomes increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction, when it is presented in such an authoritative manner. Candace Perry Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center
From: Kris Driessen
Today is my day to be talky, I guess. I was able to get ahold of the publisher of Warm Heritage and he is willing to give me a 35% discount for a wholesale purchase. So I can import and resale this book for about $30 US. If you are interested, can you let me know?
Thanks,
Kris
From: “Julia D. Zgliniec” <rzglini1@>
oops…. I wrote ” documents inside the wallet include his Teacher’s Liscence and exam reports for various years from 1884- 1988 issued by Hendricks Co. IN.”
That should read 1884-1888. I hope you knew that!
Julia
From: “Cinda Cawley” <lrcawley@>
My comment after finishing the DaVinci Code was “That’s the worst book I’ve read since Hidden In Plain View.” Re. the UGRR code controversy: Every high school debater knows that the burden of proof rests with the affirmative. It is not our obligation to disprove this theory because, as every college freshman student of logic learns, “you can’t prove a negative.” Maybe nobody studies logic anymore. Cinda on the Eastern Shore who’d much rather think about visiting Mount Vernon on President’s Day–yes, they are much more honest about slavery than they used to be.
From: “Judy Kelius (judysue)”
<img align=”left” border=”0″ height=”169″ src=”images/0385504209.01.jpg” width=”111″/>to Amazon.com and check it out – I think it is the #1 bestseller right now. A kind of modern day search for the Holy Grail.
From: Ivory22986@
you can read about it there is a story about people hiding members of Jesus’s family they say That he was married and had kids
Here is a quilting bee suggestion for those of you suffering from cabin fever. The end of the article makes the prediction that this double-headed quilting bee will long be remembered. How could its author know that 76 years later we would recall the story! sue reich
The Daily Gastonia Gazette Gastonia, North Carolina February 10, 1928
Double-Header Quilting Bee At Parsonage The St. Paul parsonage, home of Rev. and Mrs. C.K. Rhodes at Hardin, Wednesday afternoon, presented an assemblage of busy workers with neither their fingers nor their tongues idle for a moment as they hastened to complete the double-headed quilting before the setting of the sun. The entire lower floor thrown in suite provided ample room for the two quilts framed and ready for business as well as keeping the workers in close touch as they vied for first place workmanship in the first quilt ut. These were memory quilts made by the women of this church and presented to Mrs. Rhodes and they were gathered at this time to do the quilting and enjoy the time together. Notwithstanding a few accidents, as the pricking of fingers or those of their neighbors or perchance a hidden knee, as the quilt more or less was kept at a jibbling motion, their goal was reached. At quilt No. 1, called the “Dove at the Window” were seated the following workers, Mesdames C.P. Lineberger, Marshal High, C.P. Abernathy, P. I. Thornburg, Misses Ruth Friday, Mina Lineberger, Ruth Costner, Hester Lineberger. At quilt No. 2, called “The Crossword Puzzle” were Mesdames D.E. Lineberger, W.P. Friday, Walter Plonk, J.A. Friday, S.J. Richard, C.W. Costner, Earl Carpenter all of Hardin and the vicinity of St. Paul, Mrs. Carpenter’s guest, Miss Ava Ware, of Kings Mountain, Mrs. O.F. Hallman and daughter, Miss Lois of the Union road. Sparehands and overseers assisting Mrs. Rhodes as hostess were, her mother, Mrs. H.H. Rhyne, Mrs. O.P. Rhodes of Dallas, Mrs. O.D. Carpenter, of Hardin. Others present were members of the Hardin school faculty, Misses Edna Lineberger, Addie Harrelson, Mabel Quinn, and Mesdames Joe Gribble and W,N, Rhyne, of Dallas. Another quilt shown that was recently completed and presented to Mrs. Rhodes from the Philadelphia church women was of the sawtooth design and very pretty. When the quilts were out of the frames, delicious refreshments were served as the merry chats continued, the hostess being assisted in serving by Misses Estell Costner, Allie Pasour, Ruth Hallman, Flossie Pasour. The social hour concluded with group singing of old time melodies and S.S. songs rounding out a most profitable and delightful event and one long to be remembered.
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 14:24:49 EST | From: KareQuilt@
Have any of you seen one of these before with what looks like cutwork in it?
EXTREMELY RARE VIRGINIA CUT-WORK COUNTERPANE (Lot #1129 – $3,960), comprised of three homespun panels, two wide side panels with floral and geometric decoration, center narrow panel with heart and floral decoration. Late 18th/early 19th c. 67″ x 91″. Excellent condition showing only some minimal discoloration and minor repairs/losses.
Provenance: Property of a Staunton, Va. family.
Karen B. Alexander Independent Quilt Historian Press Secretary – The Quilters Hall of Fame
From: “J. G. Row” <JudyGrow@>
Karen,
I had to cut and paste to get to the web site photo, but after a couple of tries it came up — the address goes over onto a second line.
I’ll bet Newbie Richardson can tell you all about that counterpane. It is so beautiful. Were you in on the bidding?
Judy “the Ringo Kid” in Ringoes, NJ judygrow@
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 15:30:41 | From: aol.com
I thought I saw a similar one in one of Robert Bishop’s books – it was from New England and was much less symmetrical in its design. Very delicate and ethereal, though.
Karen Evans
From: Gail Ingram <gingram@>
Karen, I would have to see this in person to speak more authoritively, but unless the one photo is deceptive, it is seriously overpriced.
I cannot tell what the heavier white areas are—damasked fabric? embroidery?
The photo does not appear to have top-flight Italian (or possibly French) cutwork. It does appear to be cutwork.
The one photo is unclear, but from it, I could not say it was earlier than 20th century or really fine. Other photos? descriptions?
Check <www.2020site.org/lace> for quick review of laces.Elizabeth Scofield & P. Zalamea’s “20th Century Linens and Lace”, Francoise de Bonneville’s “The Book of Fine Linen,” Elizabeth Kurella’s “Guide to Fine Linens & Laces”.
I would be interested to know more abou this piece. I’ve looked through my own table linens and found several pieces that look rather like this, but they certainly were not/nor should be in such a price range.
Gail
From: “Pepper Cory” <pepcorymail.clis.com>
Me too! I thought the book was close to tripe. The premis of the book was too fantastic and though I’ve got no problem with a good yarn, the man’s narrative skills leave a lot to be desired. The sad truth is that good writing is rare. Enjoying great weather at the coast- Pepper Cory
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 | From: Joan Kiplinger <jkip@>
I saw several of these a few years ago at a mall antique show [Cleveland area]. They caught my attention because I could not imagine how such a large size of cutwork would be used; certainly didn’t look like a tablecloth. The dealer explained they were summer bed throws used by the wealthy in their summer “cottages” as a substitue for coverlets or other type coverings to achieve a light, summery look. She dated these particular throws early 19thC-WWI. As best I can recall, fabric appeared to be a very lightweight fine-wale pique, popular at that time.
From: Gail Ingram <gingram@>
Dear Mizruz Cory,
If this were Amazon.com and I were asked to rate your “review,” I would give you 5 stars!!!
I tend not to read things like this book anyway: give me real people (or people that at least seem real) and a world where the same rules of probability hold that hold true in the one I walk around in.
At Christmas, I was astonished to find in my home 4 people in a hot discussion of this book. They were talking about it the way some people talk about soap operas—as it it were supposed to be true. Of course, everybody from our vet to our students are free to come to our house on Xmas Eve. If you’ve ever had an invitation, it lasts forever or until we no longer hold Open House on Xmas Eve, whichever comes first. And so these folks might have had brains 20 years ago and not have them now. Still, it concerned me….
I just love people who say in good plain English: Look, people, the emperor is nekkid!
Gail
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 | From: Gail Ingram <gingram@>
Apologies for posting to the list something I had intended to post to Pepper Cory privately.
I couldn’t help myself: I find such book reviews as hers irresistible. I was overcome. (That’s a multiple-choice explanation)
From LA, where I am now watching what my mouse pointer hits, Gail
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 | From: “Kathy Moore” <KathyMooreneb.@>
Kris, you’ve hit on a wonderful analogy for the HIPV story. I listened to the The DaVinci Code on audio tape while traveling a few months ago. It was a good story. One that would have done Ozella proud, don’t you think?! Thanks for the enlightenment.
Kathy Moore Lincoln, NE
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2004 23:24:20 EST | From: Sewquiet@
what has the Divince code have to do with quilt history? I am not being nasty , but truly curious because my husband read this book and raves about it. a friend recently told me to read it…
From: “Candace Perry” <candaceschwenkfelder.com>
I appreciate that, Gail…unfortunately I am prone to read drivel for entertainment, and enjoyed the story personally. What I have found is that it serves as a jumping off point for the discussion of events that happened 2000 years ago…much, I suppose, like HIPV does in terms of the underground railroad. I appreciate when people think about their faith..and it certainly provides interesting conversation when you have individuals who have academic background in the subject matter to debunk the craziness in the book. For example, I work with a religious studies professor at my institution who has used the Vatican Archives frequently…in Brown’s Angels & Demons (the predecessor to DaVinci Code) he talks about how inaccessible the Archives is, and the truth is, it isn’t! I apologize for the diversion from quilts… Candace Perry
Date: Sat, 21 Feb 2004 | From: “Pilar Donoso” <quiltpdmi.cl>
I read de DaVinci Code book after I started making a Quilt with the Da Viinci code, that is, following the proportions of 1.618. It is very interesting. You can check more in this site http://goldennumber.net/index.html
Date: Sat, 21 Feb 2004 | From: Sewquiet@
In a message dated 2/21/2004 1:59:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, quiltpdmi.cl writes: http://goldennumber.net/
Pilar,
Thank you for sharing, obviously right now this code means nothing to me but I bought the book again (my husband has purchased numerous copies for people and gave ours away) and I will be starting it again soon.
I had a hard time getting past the beginning when the agent discovered the secret hall with the hidden artwork. It seemed to me more of an espionage book to me at the time and that is not usually what I like to read. So, here I go again, and then I have another book to read called Mary Magdiline that I purchased for my husband. My friend who has again encouraged me to read The DiVince code says that the book negates evevrything we were taught as Catholics.
I would love to see a picture of your quilt when you finish.
Have a good day,
Bernice
From: bsythmblctel.net
Historic moment for Maine! A recently discovered circa 1820 stenciled bedcloth found in Vienna Maine sold for $210,000!!! Sold to one of the four or five phone bidders. It was so exciting!! I got a postage stamp quilt from the turn of the century for $150. There was a Wonderful 1840’s small snowflake pattern set on diagonal with the gaudiest orange with black or brown dots that I would have loved to bid on but it must have sold at the very beginning before I arrived. You can see photos here: http://www.gouldauctions.com/ Cyndi in Maine
