October 27 – 30, 1997
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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:
- List Purpose Debate Continues — Members respond to Alan’s challenge about the list’s direction, balancing serious scholarship with welcoming newer quilt enthusiasts.
- Anne Orr Research — Early research into needlework designer Anne Orr, including her connections to Nashville and commercial pattern design.
- Lancaster Blue and Prussian Blue — Discussion of historical fabric color names including Lancaster Blue, Prussian blue, and the challenges of standardizing color terminology.
- Alamance Plaids — Sara Dillow points members to research on Alamance County, North Carolina plaids published in Uncoverings 1988.
- Wool Batting in Antique Quilts — Members share knowledge about wool batting use in older quilts and its preservation implications. (see the article on quilt batting)
- Underground Railroad Quilts Article — A member highlights a Quilter’s Newsletter article on quilts and the Underground Railroad. (see the article on Underground Railroad quilts)
- Quilt Restoration Ethics — Jocelyn’s ongoing questions about quilt top restoration prompt discussion of when and how to intervene with antique textiles. (see the article on quilt restoration)
- Color Charts for Historians — Proposals for creating standardized color reference charts for quilt historians, and the difficulties of describing historical dye colors.
- Clues in the Calico Reference — Multiple references to Barbara Brackman’s Clues in the Calico as a key fabric dating resource.
- Bucks County PA Quilt Research — A member researches a quilt from the Bucks County, Pennsylvania and Baltimore area, seeking identification help.
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 1997 18:57:21 -0800 | From: Cindy Tittle Moore
HPQuilting [at] aol [dot] com writes:
>Lauri:
>That was one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever heard. I appreciate your
>sharing of it. It encourages me as I am now the grandmother of three.
Truely a lovely story. But I value anything that anyone took the time
to make for me, regardless of how they did it…
–Cindy, who has handquilted, machine quilted and even glue-gunned treasures
of her own…
—
On the Internet, nobody knows you’re a dog. tittle [at] netcom [dot] com
–P. Steiner http://www.zmall.com/tittle.html
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 1997 23:01:27 -0500 (EST) | From: “Edna K.”
I have been reading from this page now for several weeks and I have learned
that I do want to try wool batting, I use only cotton now and want silk as
soon as I can afford it. But the discussion on wool batting has inspired me
to try it.
I make miniature antique reproduction quilts which measure about 20″
finished. I copy old patterns from whatever history books I can find or
hear about. I ordered a book as a result of reading what others have
suggested here. I have been quilting off and on for about 30 years and only
recently turned to the history, which I love!
The purpose of my writing tonight is to add my two cents worth about the
subject matter. Too many rules can hurt, but straying too far from the
subject can too. I enjoy the balance that we have now and within reason
feel it should not change. Some nights the contributions don’t spark my
interest, some nights they do. And it’s like the TV, I can always shut it off.
My question: My Great Aunt was Anne Orr and I was told that perhaps someone
in here could help me with my search for more information about her. She
was a very modest lady and didn’t tell me about her accomplishments. Can
anyone add more information???? thanks!
eak [at] inet [dot] net
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 1997 20:01:56 -0800 | From: “Caroline M. Beetley”
Thank you, Alan, for mentioning the article on the Underground Railroad in
the November 1997 QNM. As I missed almost all of the discussion on this
topic, which, from some comments, seems to have been a blessing :-), I was
very interested in the article.
Also, did anyone see the article in the December 1997 issue of “American
Patchwork & Quilting” on the New England Quilt Museum. I have seen this
museum mentioned a couple of times on this list, but did not know anything
about it. For those out there who are not familiar with this museum, it is
located in Lowell, MA and was founded a ten years ago. They have a
permanent collection of 130 quilts ranging from antiques to contemporary.
Their main purpose is to preserve quiltmaking and to educate the public.
Also, there were some photos of some of the quilts at the museum.
Also, in the “American Quilter” Winter 1997 issue, there is a very
interesting article by Catherine Anthony on Amish quilts. The focus of the
article is to help people distinguish between Lancaster Amish and Ohio Amish
quilts. She describes differences in borders, patterns, fabric/color, size,
and quilting, from 1885 to 1970. Also included are some beautiful photos of
Amish quilts.
I recommend checking out both of these articles. My two cents worth on the
purpose of this list–lately it does seem to resemble other quilt lists that
I am on, but topics related to quilt history/restoration have been mentioned
in almost every digest I get. Suggest topics or ask questions on topics you
would like discussed.
Caroline M. Beetley
cbeetley [at] fuller [dot] edu
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 1997 20:08:42 -0900 | From: Lavonne
Does anyone know where I can find a reference as to what dates
approximately correspond to the changes in widths of cotton fabric? I
can’t seem to find anything difinitive in my many quilting and textile
history books–I’m sure it’s there somewhere.
Thanks,
Lavonne Currier
Nikiski, Alaska
David Croze/Lavonne Currier
P. O. Box 8097
Nikiski, AK 99635
croze [at] kenai [dot] net
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 06:29:56 +0000 | From: “The Garretts”
To Alan and interested others —
I found Alan’s post very interesting and timely as I too have not found the list
to be all I had hoped for. I am very grateful for the posts about exhibits of
antique quilts — many small museums don’t have budgets that allow for
advertising and I have attended shows within driving distance that I wouldn’t
have known about except for the list. My thanks to those who post this
information. I guess we always hope for more information, no matter how much
is there.
I feel that I have been a contributing member when I have either 1) found
something of an historical nature that I think would interest others or 2) can
answer a question, or at least give some input on the topic. Therefore I feel I
can express my biggest frustration with the list — people asking very good
quilt history questions and then asking that the answers be sent to them
privately. It was and still is my understanding that this is a learning list
and as such quilt history answers should be sent to the list and never only to
the person asking the question. I feel that this is to be a forum where
everyone can learn from everyone else, therefore all quilt history answers
should be sent to the list. This is my interpretation of the intent of the
list and if this method were followed there would be discussion and information
exchange. Now I sometimes feel it is a list of questions with a few answers.
Concerning Alan’s comment about asking for locations of quilt shops — actually
I think asking for locations of antique shops for viewing/purchasing old quilts
would be more the type of thing I would expect on this list. Many — maybe
most — members belong to general quilting lists and information about quilt
shops is available there, but I don’t know of a place to find out about the
nice antique malls, etc, located in a town. These answers, not being of a
general nature, are appropriately sent to the individual. One time asking for
shop locations would be appropriate to the list would be something like —
nobody carries Aunt Gracies line locally, does anyone know of a shop in Indiana
that does as I will be visiting there on vacation.
Like Alan, my statements are just my opinion of what I “dreamed of” when this
list was started. I have learned alot from the list, and don’t plan to leave
it, and will continue to post what I consider to be interesting tidbits to it
and hope others will also. I am grateful for everyones willingness to share
and for this forum’s existence. Alan asked for my opinion, so this is it, and
isn’t meant to offend anyone. A big thank you to those who so willingly share
their information and knowledge. I think many of us suffer from wanting to
learn more, and more, and more….
Barb in southeastern PA
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 07:17:24, -0500 | From: LVQG24A [at] prodigy [dot] com ( ELIZABETH K DONALDSON)
Dear Alan and other QHL listers:
I agree that the subjects are not all scintillating, but I think
there is fear about what to post and what not to post. It seems all
the interesting topics, like origins of quilt block names are
answered by private e-mail! That’s the stuff I want to read. Also
Alan I’d like to know what you want to read about-we’re getting alot
of criticism, but not much leadership or input. It would be nice to
read more information on small museums and antique shops that are
showing their quilts. Also how can we convince the larger museums to
give gallery space to their quilt collections more often. I’m also
interested in traveling teachers schedules, like where and when can
we see Barbara Brackman, Merrikay Waldvogl, Laurel Horton, etc. etc.
I’m working at the Michigan State University Museum and we’re
planning big things for 1999 and 2000 as well as getting ready for
the Mary Schafer collection to arrive this winter. I’ll be posting
when dates are more definate. Big things are on the horizon for
quilt history and restoration and I think this list has great
potential!
Now for a shameless personal plug…… My book Charm Quilts is
finally out!!! It’s not a history book, but the story of contemporary
Charm Quilters and the quilt guild experience from the 1980’s and
1990’s. Ask for it at your local shop (EZ International, by Wrights
is the publisher) or e-mail me.
Hanging in there,
Beth Donaldson
Lansing, Michigan
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 1997 23:34:22 -0500 (EST) | From: JOCELYNM [at] delphi [dot] com
On 27-OCT-1997 19:25:32.0 AJSNGS said to JOCELYNM
>specific needs from this list, and I think that stems from the fact
>that some of you are much more educated in the field of antique quilts
>and their history than other members–like me. I enjoy learning all
>that you have to offer, whether it be about feedsacks, or restoring an
>old quilt, or putting together old quilt blocks, etc. I don’t feel
>that I have a lot to offer, but I do like to ask questions! If we
>become too rigid in our rules for this list, I do think you’ll find
>that people leave.
Nancy,
I heartily agree.
A couple of weeks ago, I posted about buying my first quilttop. I got a
grand total of one response, and NO responses to my question about restoring
it. Apparently this topic was too boring, or too repetitious to be worth
responding to.
I’m always frustrated when this complaint comes up, as it seems to do
with great frequency. I feel a lot of pressure to have the ‘right’
note….not too mundane, not too boring, and certainly not anything we’ve
ever discussed before…… The message I’m getting is, that if I can’t
speak with authority and introduce scintillating new topics in quilting
history, I shouldn’t dare to speak about anything. Maybe the answer for me
is to join one of those quilting lists that are what the people who want
more authenticity DON’T want.
Jocelyn
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 08:10:45 -0500 (EST) | From: Baglady111 [at] aol [dot] com
all of this talk about wool batt makes me wonder..I have a friend (actually
several) from my home in VA..and she raises her own sheep, shears, and uses
some in sweaters that she knits..wonder if SHE is doing wool batt??? Might
check and I’ll let you know if any interest..Jane of THE FEEDSACK CLUB
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 07:11:14 -0600 | From: “quilts.r.me”
Hi All,
I’ve been catching up on all my email from the past 10 days, and I wanted
to respond to Alan and the other QHLer’s both pro & con. I enjoy this list
for what it is. A forum for discussion. Yes, it’s billed as a historical
quilt list, but I learn a lot about my old quilts from the discussion of
the new quilts. Why would the current “reproduction” trend be so popular
if we didn’t mix both?
I enjoy each of you.
Cindy
Cindy Wall
Auburn, Alabama, USA
“I’ve got a neat house. It’s neat the way all of my fabric brightens up
the floor. It’s neat that I’ve got 3 quilt tops draped over the furniture.
It’s neat that each of my pets have their own quilt. It’s neat that each
of my family is getting (or gotten) a quilt. My house may not be clean,
but it sure is NEAT!”
-Original-
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 07:16:38 -0600 | From: Laura Hobby Syler
Lavonne: This was one of the many topics of discussion at the QRS
conference in Omaha this past September. While there was much
speculation, the general concensus was that you really can’t use the
width of the textile to help in determining age of the piece. While it
was not until the ’70’s that we got more consistant 45″ wide fabrics,
there can be seen many varying widths throughout history, more
dependant on the type of thread being woven into the yard goods than the
actual time period. I hope there is someone that will respond with more
specific information…this information is the result of several
conversations with Nancy & Bill Kirk, Barbara Brackman, Terry Thompson
and several other dealers that were present for the Appraisal school and
Fabric Camps.
Laura Hobby Syler
> > >
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 08:25:10 -0500 (EST) | From: Baglady111 [at] aol [dot] com
In a message dated 97-10-28 02:52:40 EST, you write:
<<
Does anyone know where I can find a reference as to what dates
approximately correspond to the changes in widths of cotton fabric? I
can’t seem to find anything difinitive in my many quilting and textile
history books–I’m sure it’s there somewhere.
Thanks,
Lavonne Currier
Nikiski, Alaska
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 09:04:26 -0500 (EST) | From: Quilt97 [at] aol [dot] com
To answer Alan’s question, some of us have very little to offer concerning
quilt heritage and history, and are still very much in the novice learning
stage. If those with background and knowledge leave this list you are doing
a disservice to yourself (why do you have an interest in quilt history and
what will you do with that knowledge?) and to those of us interested in
learning.
Maybe we need a topic of the week/month?
Elisabeth
<<
Alright. I got out my biggest spoon, ’cause I’m gonna stir up some
‘controversy’.
Question – not for Kris, but for the general populace of QHL (Kris, I know
your answer! At least I think I do.). What are your
expectations/needs/desires/etc. for this list.
I’ve spent the last three weeks very seriously debating whether or not I
should unsub from this list. Outside of a lot of feedsack info (Jane, I’m
thrilled your so intense about it!), there is a lot of conversation about
things that feel as if they should be on a regular ol’ quilt list
(non-historically based questions, what shop should I go to, etc.). If it
were a small part of the list, that would be one thing, but it’s become a
major thrust. >>
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 09:35:52 -0500 (EST) | From: PElkovitch [at] aol [dot] com
Hi!
I thought I would pose a question to the group regarding some signature
blocks that I am going to be obtaining and what I should do with them. My DH
recently had the highest bid in an autograph auction for 18 signatures on
linen. They are signed by ministers, abolishionist and writers; among them
L.M. Alcott, Billings, Beecher, etc. I have not seen them yet, only going
by the auction house information (and yes, a reputable firm from NY that
guarantees authenticity). The original intention of these was for a quilt.
What would you do with them?
Originally I had thought that I would assemble them into a quilt as was the
original plan, using new reproduction fabrics. Then, I thought I would use
the fabric from old tops that I originally purchased to reuse the fabrics.
However, now I am wondering about the two old tops that I have that are
identical patterns . . . . strippy quilts. . . . similar in design to Plate
#128 in Small Endearments, by Sandi Fox, however 80″ x 96″ with strips being
5 1/2″ for both sashing and strips of blocks on point. The coloration is of
print fabrics: green or brown homespuns, madder foulards, other stripes or
background prints in browns and tans. , and a few brown florals. I have
gone through Textile Designs, and most fabrics are from 1860-1880.
In Clues in the Calico, page 127, a Strip quilt (estimate date of 1825-1850)
is shown. My tops are similar, however, the madder foulard is used rather
than a large scale stripe. The tops I have are also not as colorful as the
quilt shown on page 40 of QNM (November ’97) in the Barbara Brackman article.
My tops are quite dull and the block on point is plain, not a fourpatch on
point.
I’m ordering the new Brackman book on Civil War quilts from Kris, as now I am
thinking I should not touch the two old tops that I had purchased years ago
with the intention of reusing the fabrics. I know that the tops originally
came from a house sale in Jamestown, New York, but there isn’t any documented
proof as to this (only verbal from the dealer when I questioned him).
Some of the new reproductions fabrics are so beautiful, that I wouldn’t have
a problem working with them with the signature blocks, however, I really like
to use fabrics of the period whenever possible.
Just thought I throw this out to the group on this dark, snowy morning in
Central NY.
Patricia C. Elkovitch
Skaneateles, NY
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 10:07:59 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
I believe Clues in the Calico addresses this. If you don’t get any concrete
answers email me and I am sure I have info. regarding that. Lynn in NC
(palampore [at] aol [dot] com
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 10:08:39 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
What is Lancaster Blue? I have a special interest since my maiden name is
Lancaster. Is it an indigo, Prussian blue, cadet blue, ?????? Lynn in NC
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 10:15:45 -0500 (EST) | From: JZgliniec [at] aol [dot] com
Dear All,
I would like to respond with a big ME TOO to Barb’s post regarding our list.
I treasure all the information that has been shared and would like it to
continue. The topics she mentioned interest me too. If it had not been for
info shared by Barb and others, I would not have the regional Pa books they
have mentioned…..I thank them for that.
Enegry ebbs and flows and perhaps there has not been much lately. I
personally have been recovering from AQSG, which was wonderful ! ! I got
my “official” QHL mug shot done by Sharon Tandy and met other QHL ers also.
I would like to add that I respond when what I have to say might be worth
someone else’s dime. I have the unlimited use feature or AOL, I know
others pay for their time to download, so I try to have something to say.
This discussion is good…….thank you to Alan for raising it. We can make
of this list what ever we want…….just like a quilt. And just like a
patchwork quilt…..EVERY patch is important.
Regards to all,
Julia in Poway, CA……..clear and cold nights…..warn days……Fall air.
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 10:39:33 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
I am researching a quilt from the Bucks Co. PA and Baltimore area. The
person who sold it to me says that there are no estate records regarding this
quilt(It dates 1775-1825), but I am not satisfied with her answer. Due to
time constraints I do not have time to travel there to search for myself.
Any ideas of anyone who can help me with this? I have many names from the
family and a few dates to go with them. Has anyone had any experience with
this? When did people stop listing textiles in their wills, estate records?
I would appreciate help on this matter.
I am also researching blue/brown/gold plaids made in NC from 1850-1920. I
would like to know if anyone knows of any quilts or CLOTHING still around
using this fabric. I have found lots in eastern NC. Many of them are quilts
in a quilt with 2 or 3 generations of plaids in them.
I just ordered a book (72 pg. catalog) yesterday QUILTS, COVERLETS,&
COUNTERPANES from The
Gallery at Old Salem, Winston-Salem, NC where they have a display which will
be up until Jan. 11. They will also be having presentations on quilts on
various dates.
For info. call 1-888-328-5360.
I am taking classes from NC State Univer. College of Textiles via tapes
toward a certificate in Fiber Science for Textile Conservators. To get info.
write to NCSU Col. of TEXTILES TOTE Program, Raleigh, NC. The classes are
primarily manufacturing oriented and are rather difficult. I am now taking
Polymer Chemistry and it is a KILLER, but I think it will be very helpful in
the long haul. Are there any other programs out there to help those of us who
want to make this a profession yet cannot travel half way across the country
for a 2 year masters program????
Thanks, Lynn in New Bern, NC
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 08:01:33 -0800 | From: ayjones
I can see this list fizzle out in time and I am not sure why. I too have
asked questions that I think would fit in the QHL and have had no response.
It seems (to me) that we may have different interests, & differ in what we
want from the list. I make quilts, & think that hand quilting is what makes
a quilt.The books that I have are on quilt history not “how to books”. I
confess I like quilt books with wonderful color pictures of quilts best.In
my collection of about 50 antique quilts the red and green applique from
the mid 1800’s are my favorite. For me just looking at the wonderful old
quilts with so much hand work on them influences the way I feel about
quilts. I see others on the list that want to do restoring, some that want
to sell products, some that have just started learning about quilting.
There is room for us all.
When joining the list I was hoping to find out where every Red and Green
quilt was for sale, just kidding. I was interested why 3 different AQS
appraisers could date and appraise a quilt and have a different value. How
much is to much to pay for a quilt.Should the same quilt be appraised
differently from state to state???How many of you actually have your quilts
insured?
Has anyone shopped on Madison Ave. in NY for an antique quilt?
One more reason the list might be…..less interesting.When I said (way
back when) something about “how I hate to see an antique quilt cut up”
there was a comment or two discouraging me from EVER bring up the subject
again. Perhaps this stopped others from expressing their feelings about a
subject that they were passionate about.When I did bring up this subject
(and I am just using it as an example) I had several personal e-mails to me
supporting my comments and from that we continued a friendship.We talk
about quilting, antique quilts, cost, the weather, family, exchanged quilt
photo’s and so on.With this we have bypassed the QHL.
I hated writing this letter but I like Alan’s posts best and do not want
him to quit.
Yvonne
QUILT-R
ayjones [at] tacoma [dot] nwrain [dot] net
The QUILT-R 🙂
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 11:06:01 -0500 (EST) | From: CToczek [at] aol [dot] com
My first trip to Houston was absolutely wonderful. I loved every minute of
it (once I got off the plane.:]) Got to say hello to Xenia Cord and Nancy
Kirk and see their lovely quilts. The exhibits were awe-inspiring,
especially the workmanship in the Patricia Cox Collection quilts on display.
I have a poser for you all. Antique quilts found with a signature, date or
other descriptive marking are almost always valued higher monetarily and
sentimentally. Nowadays we are taught from beginning quilting classes to
sign, sign, sign and date, date, date. As this is being universally
practiced now, how will it affect the future value/worth of our quilts? If
all 1990’s quilts are found 100 years from now signed and dated, what might
be a distinguishing factor besides workmanship? In other words, it seems
the more scarce a commodity, the more valuable it is. With our trend
towards quilt preservation (a good thing), our 1990’s quilts may well not be
scarce 100 years from now.
Best wishes to you all and thanks for the input on quilting with wool; I’ve
been wondering about the subject, too.
Carla in Lubbock
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 09:35:36 -0800 | From: lrobins [at] cclink [dot] fhcrc [dot] org (laurarm)
Alan (et al) :
A lot of what you said made sense and probably many or most would
agree that we would like more “meaty” discussions. You’re right –
there haven’t been very many big topics thrown out on the list lately.
I don’t know why but can think of a couple possiblities. One might be
that people think it won’t get any discussion (I believe that’s why
you said you haven’t brought up one recently, Alan.) But if no one
tries, then there’s a void which will get filled up with the little
stuff.
But another reason could be that most of us just don’t have a huge
topic of interest to toss out. Many (most?) of us are not full-time
quilt restorers or dealers and so we don’t come across a wonderful
antique quilt every day or even every week. We love quilts and are on
the list to learn and share knowledge and will throw something in when
we can, but we don’t have an enthralling new problem to put on the
list every week.
Does that mean that only “real” historians should be on the list so
that they can have intense and esoteric discussions? Probably not,
because even we non-professionals have read and looked at old quilts
and can throw in an opinion.
I hope that the serious full-timers won’t leave the list. Perhaps
those who have an interesting question or new find could take the
extra time to post it to QHL. It takes a little extra effort to make
this the educational list people want it to be.
I don’t think the chit-chat keeps out the interesting stuff – it
merely fills the holes. And a certain amount of lighter conversation
makes the list more personal and friendly. It can’t be intense all
the time. (Yes, I get tired of the me-too’s and the personal
messages, but I can ignore those.) Drawing that line between
legitimate discussion and totally-unrelated-topic is not always easy.
Maybe Kris and Alan and concerned others would like to re-state the
guidelines?
QHL may not be perfect, but it has its great moments!
My 2 cents worth. Laura in Seattle
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 11:20:32 -0600 | From: Sara Dillow
It was a treat to read Edna K’s request for information about her great
aunt, Anne Orr. I am certain that there will be lots of responses to Edna’s
request but thought I could supply some initial information. Merikay
Waldvogel’s paper “The Marketing of Anne Orr’s Quilts” presented at the
1990 seminar of the American Quilt Study Group is published in the 1990
UNCOVERINGS which is readily available through AQSG, Kris or other book
dealers. It is a wonderful resource for information about Anne Orr and her
wonderful work. Merikay is still in Houston for the Boxes Conference and
will be excited to read about your request when she returns home, Edna.
Enjoyed meeting many of you in Houston at the Festival when you stopped by
the AQSG booth! I am still on overload – it was a great experience.
Sara – recovering from the devastating storm in Nebraska
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 11:25:47 -0800 | From: Sharon Harleman Tandy
Dear Patricia, In general you’re headed in the right direction. Asking,
comparing, checking etc. At QRS in Omaha in September, after listening
to Barbara Brackman, et al., the concensus was to determine if the
textiles are strong enough to work on. Modern threads and fabrics are
often too strong to be combined with old textiles. BB, if I may quote
her, said “Many old quilt blocks and tops never leave the frame alive,”
meaning the stress is too much. I’ve noticed that ’30s blocks are
sometimes strong enough but almost never would I expect 1800s fabrics to
withstand the stresses involved, no matter the method. Preserve them as
they are; replicate, maybe; record everything you know about them,
certainly; research their history, if you wish. Sharon, Quilts &
Answers, Boise, Idaho.
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 11:39:36 -0800 | From: Sharon Harleman Tandy
Lynn, I’m anxious to see the responses to this. There is so much I want
to research and study but you can’t always get “there from here!” The
blue, brown, golds you mention sound like several plaid patches in my
Jasper q. that I had in Omaha. Someone there suggested they might be
Alamance Plaids. Weren’t they manufactured in your region? Can anyone
tell me the name of the book on them? Gotta run, I’m on the trail of
the Idaho Centennial Quilt, 1990, and no one in our state government can
tell me where it is. Sounds like Johnny Carson’s staff? Sharon, Quilts
& Answers, Boise, Idaho.
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 14:03:39 -0500 (CDT) | From: JP1311S [at] ACAD [dot] DRAKE [dot] EDU
Hi everyone. I studied Alan’s note about what this list is all about and
have been giving it some thought. I just love old quilts, but I’m just
learning. I do learn from everything that comes out on this list, (well
most of it.) I have put all my polyester thread away in a box for more
frivolous projects and now use all cotton. You guys taught me that. I
don’t contribute much because I don’t really know much and don’t feel
ready (yet) to give advice or solutions. I’m still looking to learn. I
try to be aware that there may be a subject that some feel is “done to
death” and so I don’t want to make someone write a complaining note. (That
did happen to me when I wrote about what I did with the first vintage
blocks I ever bought.) I do wait for someone who really knows to say
something brilliant that will spark something in me. It does happen. I
was so interested in the Underground Railroad discussion, and now there
are some books I have bought, or intend to buy.
So, maybe there is room for improvement. I wish some of you smart
(experienced) people would talk about what you’ve learned. Otherwise, this
is one of my favorite listservs. I enjoy just reading it. Stay with us,
Alan. We need you.
Judy in Des Moines where 6″ of snow fell on us, breaking branches on most
of the leaf-laden maple trees.
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 15:31:17 -0500 (EST) | From: QltHMT [at] aol [dot] com
Regarding wool batting. I have read somewhere that when putting together
quilts with wool batting (in years past years), a piece of cheese cloth was
placed over the wool batt. I bought a couple of quilts at a garage sale this
past summer and when trying to figure out what kind of batting it had in it,
I peeked into a small hole and discovered cheese cloth. I had indeed bought
two quilts with woolen batting. No bearding, BTW. Sooooo…..the answer to
reduce bearding is to place a piece of cheese cloth over your wool batt
before you quilt it.
Also learned that you can machine wash the older woolen batt quilts as long
as you don’t agitate them. The agitation twists the woolen fibers and makes
knots. They turned out beautifully clean and fluffy.
Helen (Heirlooms by Helen) MN
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 15:33:41 -0600 | From: Sara Dillow
Hi again,
You can read about Alamance Plaids in Uncoverings 1988, paper by Laurel
Horton “The Textile Industry and South Carolina Quilts”. Also available
through AQSG at AQSG [at] juno [dot] com
sara – in Nebraska where it is now melting:)
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 17:37:52 -0500 (EST) | From: TeresitaF [at] aol [dot] com
Hi!
I’m new to the list — I’ve been interested in collecting various types of
antiques and have recently combined my love for antiques and quilts and enjoy
the character and appeal of antique quilts. I have several tops and have
recently purchased an antique quilt during a recent trip to Delaware.
I have a question — when should an antique quilt be restored or left as is?
The quilt I purchased is old (1830’s I think, I’ll have to wait for mom to
bring it down with her) — the quilting is beyond my wildest hopes of
attaining (she quilted her name, town and date of the quilt in the sashing of
the quilt) and her quilting (and there’s lots of it) is done in double lines
about 1/8″ apart. The applique pattern seems to be a variation of a Rose of
Sharon (??) using Turkey red, yellow and green on white. The red and yellow
portions of the flowers are all blanket-stitched down. The only thing is
that the turkey red fabric is blowing out. Do I replace the turkey red
fabric with vintage material? (I have a yard of it at the house) The green,
yellow and white are in mint condition (no fading, no wear, etc.). Help!!!
Opinions please…
To answer a question the best that I can — Lancaster Blue (from my
experiences growing up just north of Lancaster, PA) is a medium blue (almost
a bluebird color) popular with the Amish in the area. If you look at the web
pages for Log Cabin Quilts, sometimes she has a quilt for sale that uses that
fabric and she documents it in the description area (she includes a thumbnail
picture of each quilt listed).
I hope you more experienced quilters stay on the list — as a “newbie” to all
of this, I learn something new from all of you each day!
Thanks,
Theresa
Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 09:38:31 +1000 | From: Sven Olsson
Palampore [at] aol [dot] com wrote:
>
> What is Lancaster Blue? I have a special interest since my maiden name is
> Lancaster. Is it an indigo, Prussian blue, cadet blue, ?????? Lynn in NC
The Lancaster Blue in my quilt is a bright blue (like the sky on a
perfect spring day) very fine print, over white fabric. It is not a
distinct print, more squiggles and lines, that just allow a tiny bit of
the white to show through.
I (with my limited knowledge), equate it to the blue version of a double
pink.
I do not know it’s history, maybe some-one else out there would care to
share.
Lorraine in Oz (Now we are talking!!!!)
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 18:39:52 -0500 (EST) | From: AJSNGS [at] aol [dot] com
Hi all,
I was in Lancaster County, PA this past week-end and looked at quite a few
beautiful Amish quilts. I am wondering if there are particular quilting
patterns that are distinctive to Amish quilts? Or, are there quilting
patterns that can be traced back to certain time periods? I recall that we
discussed something of this nature last winter, but we only discussed one
particular quilting pattern (at least as far as I can remember).
Thanks in advance,
Nancy in VA
AJSNGS [at] aol [dot] com
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 18:00:03 -0800 | From: Quilting Heritage ListServ
I am grateful to Alan for finally stirring up a controversy! We haven’t had
so many posts since the log cabin black center debate.
My original concept of the list was to have a place where all interested
parties – regardless of their “experience” – could discuss antique quilts
and the historical aspects of quilting. I was hoping that we would discuss
not only the physical aspects of quilts (fabrics, washing, restoration etc.)
but also the social history involved. The life and times of our
foremothers, as it were. I really had envisioned a list where we would
learn from each other by exchanging stories, research, tips and techniques.
We do have a home page (http://www.HickoryHillQuilts.com/qhl.htm), a book
reviews page which the members wrote
(http://www.HickoryHillQuilts.com/reviews.htm) and a “What is” page
(http://www.HickoryHillQuilts.com/whatis.htm). We have been a great
interactive list in the past, and I agree with the person who said we were
just going through a lull.
I am a firm believer that everyone can teach you something. I have had a
number of private notes from people telling me they hesitate to post to the
list because they are afraid of being criticized. This shouldn’t be. There
is no such thing as a stupid question, except the one that wasn’t asked! We
have to be aware that controversy exists, and we have to be respectful of
each others opinions. For example, the AIDS quilt, cutter quilts and their
uses, the swastika symbol. These are all valid discussion topics, and we
shouldn’t be flinging otters (that’s a Due South term) at each other for
discussing them.
We have had several interesting posts lately. One from someone who was
seeking advice on what to do with 18 signature blocks, signed by ministers,
abolitionists and writers; among them L.M. Alcott, Billings, Beecher, etc.
This is exciting stuff! We also had a post from someone who was researching
an old quilt, and someone who was researching an Amish quilt. Now, I know
we have talked about Census Soundex’s before, (for the curious, check out
http://www.familyhistory.com/faqs/narasdex.htm ) but I have never used one.
I would certainly welcome advice from someone who has jumped through those
hoops. This is the kind of things we should be discussing. Let’s answer
some of these notes!
Ok, one last thing. We should all be interested in this site:
http://www.wwu.edu/~stephan/48states.html
More later….
Kris
Date: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 21:34:40 -0500 | From: Beth Holland
I have a quilt made by the Bell family (NC) that has a great many plaids,
although it is so unusual I can’t date it with certainty–it was reported to be
from the 1930’s by the dealer, but has much older looker fabric. The dealer was
not that knowlegable–she reported only what she was told from the family. I do
know the quilt is from Marshallburg or Smyrna,NC, was from the Bell family and
was documented in the NC Quilt Documentation Project. It still has its number.
I would dearly love to see what the NC Quilt Project wrote about it, if anybody
out there knows how I could access their archives. Lynn, I live in Swansboro, NC
if you would ever like to get together and look at each other’s quilts I would
love it. E mail me if you are interested.
Beth
Palampore [at] aol [dot] com wrote:
I am researching a quilt from the Bucks Co. PA and Baltimore area. The
> person who sold it to me says that there are no estate records regarding this
> quilt(It dates 1775-1825), but I am not satisfied with her answer. Due to
> time constraints I do not have time to travel there to search for myself.
> Any ideas of anyone who can help me with this? I have many names from the
> family and a few dates to go with them. Has anyone had any experience with
> this? When did people stop listing textiles in their wills, estate records?
> I would appreciate help on this matter.
> I am also researching blue/brown/gold plaids made in NC from 1850-1920. I
> would like to know if anyone knows of any quilts or CLOTHING still around
> using this fabric. I have found lots in eastern NC. Many of them are quilts
> in a quilt with 2 or 3 generations of plaids in them.
> I just ordered a book (72 pg. catalog) yesterday QUILTS, COVERLETS,&
> COUNTERPANES from The
> Gallery at Old Salem, Winston-Salem, NC where they have a display which will
> be up until Jan. 11. They will also be having presentations on quilts on
> various dates.
> For info. call 1-888-328-5360.
> I am taking classes from NC State Univer. College of Textiles via tapes
> toward a certificate in Fiber Science for Textile Conservators. To get info.
> write to NCSU Col. of TEXTILES TOTE Program, Raleigh, NC. The classes are
> primarily manufacturing oriented and are rather difficult. I am now taking
> Polymer Chemistry and it is a KILLER, but I think it will be very helpful in
> the long haul. Are there any other programs out there to help those of us who
> want to make this a profession yet cannot travel half way across the country
> for a 2 year masters program????
> Thanks, Lynn in New Bern, NC
–msnavigationmsnavigation
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 12:51:27 +0800 | From: “Chris & Pam Lee”
I am very excited. I will be coming to Dallas next week. This will be my
first trip to the US since I started my interest in antique quilts. I want
to use this opportunity to learn more about antique quilts. I would really
appreciate any info. on exhibits in Dallas and recommendations on reputable
antique quilt shops. I do not quilt so I am not to keen on quilting supply
shops or repro. fabric.
Appreciate you input,
Pam
in sunny Kuala Lumpur.
From: PElkovitch [at] aol [dot] com
To: harleman
In a message dated 97-10-28 12:23:30 EST, harleman [at] micron [dot] net writes:
<< Preserve them as
they are; replicate, maybe; record everything you know about them,
certainly; research their history, if you wish. >>
Sharon,
Now, that is certainly an idea that would ease my concious about destroying
the history of the signature blocks. . . . . . . . . .replicate them in a new
quilt, and keep the blocks in their original state (and yes, with a label on
the quilt stating the blocks are replicated).
I would like to add my 2 cents about the stability of “antique” fabrics.
Around three years ago, I was contacted by a local woman to restore a
family heirloom quilt. I don’t know about many of you, but my heart always
races at the thought of experiencing the viewing of an heirloom quilt.
This particular day, the palpitations quickly stopped when a local
guild’s charity quilt from 1979 surfaced. I questioned the owner (and I was
secretly pleased that she would consider it an heirloom) about how she was
using it (washing/sunlight/animals 🙂 and after really examining it, I
could see that it was just the grade of fabric in some of the blocks. It’s
a shock to see a quilt from 1979 with fabric deteriorating like an antique
fabric from caustic dyes, especially when some antique tops/quilts/fabric
look like they are more stable than the fabrics in a twentieth century quilt.
Patricia C. Elkovitch
Skaneateles, NY
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 06:39:36 -0500 (EST) | From: HPQuilting [at] aol [dot] com
I like the Kansas Rail Fence design because it is the one I teach in my
beginning quilting class. It is such a joy to see how many different fabrics
these wonderful women choose. I think it is a sort of analogy of the unique
qualities in each of them.
Penny(HPQuilting [at] aol [dot] com)
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 07:17:16 +0400 | From: Xenia Cord
Hi, all – the problem with trying to describe colors is that we tend to
use color terms that are familiar to us, even if they refer to items
that were not invented when that color was popular. “Bubblegum” pink is
a good example – a 20th century color term to describe a 19th century
color. (Double pink is a better descriptor.)
Prussian blue (ferrocyanides of iron) was so named, according to my
dictionary, because it was discovered by Diesbach in 1704 in Berlin,
then capital of Prussia. I believe it was used to dye wools for military
uniforms in Prussia. I think this is also the color some on the list are
referring to as Lancaster blue and Lafayette blue. It is a bright,
saturated medium blue, popular in cotton prints until the middle of the
19th century, and persisting especially in s-eastern Pennsylvania for
the rest of the century, after it fell from common use elsewhere.
Prussian blue prints from PA are often tight, randomly sized small dots
or spatters on white.
Lafayette blue would probably also refer to a military uniform color.
The Marquis de Lafayette, as I have posted here before, was a Rev. War
military figure who returned to the US in 1824 for an anniversary tour
and was given a hero’s welcome. At least one quilt pattern was spawned
by that visit (Lafayette Orange Peel). Soldier blue or cadet blue is a
lighter variant.
I have in my stash of stuff a tiny cube of commercially made Prussian
blue – it’s about 1/4 inch tall and wide, by 3/8 inch long, and has a
crest and the words Prussian Blue molded into the top in relief. It
came from England with a sewing box from my g-g-grandmother, and may
have been made in India. No directions for its use! It looks like a
cake of indigo.
This is heady stuff for so early in the AM – time for coffee!
Xenia, in Indiana
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 08:43:45 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
Sharon, either take a picture of the quilt or color copy the plaids and send
to me.
Alamance Plaids were made in Alamance NC from 1850-1920. There is research
on the manufacturing of them in Uncoverings by Irma Kirkpatrick (88 or 89?) .
I am now collecting quilts that have these plaids and I guess I have 30
quilts so far. They are often a quilt in a quilt with several generations of
plaids. Thanks for asking, Lynn
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 08:56:58 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
Where did you hear this name used? If you would color copy it for me I’ll
send you $2.00 and my address. Yes, you can color copy quilts. I had to try
out 3 color copy places in town. One was disgusted at the thoughts of laying
a quilt on their copier,
one had lousy color transfer from quilt to copy, but Mailboxes had it all.
They had good color and a staff with a sense of humor and adventure. Some
of the dark plaids require that they cut out a “frame” of white paper to
place around the area I want copied. I am not sure about what the light of
the copier will do but for a one or two time shot I think that it is fine. I
am doing this with my Alamance Plaids and then putting them in a baseball
card sheet labeled as to where I got it etc. Much easier to see as a group
and more easily transportable than 30 quilts. Gotta run—Lynn in NC
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 09:04:17 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
Beth, it sounds like you have a good one. Email me privately with your phone
# and maybe we can make plans to get together. We all have to remember that
dealers are nice folks but they don’t know everything about dating. We all
hope they never do or we would never get a “deal”. I am married to a dealer
and we feel the same way. But in this person’s defense it could have been
made in the 30’s using material in a fabric stash that was purchased 20 years
prior because by the end of the 1800’s it was apparently dirt cheap.
Just an interesting note—I tossed out my interest in A. Plaids several
months ago and no one was interested and now I am getting all sorts of notes.
So just because there was no interest in your quilt a while back don’t give
up. Try again. Lynn in NC
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 09:16:14 -0500 (EST) | From: Palampore [at] aol [dot] com
What a treasure!!! Don’t cut them or put them in a quilt. Make a notebook
of them and save. Lynn in NC
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 00:17:38 -0500 (EST) | From: JOCELYNM [at] delphi [dot] com
On 29-OCT-1997 15:20:58.3 gilsons said to JOCELYNM
> Every restoration is unique. Is there damage to the top? Are you
not? Is the top an flea market find or a family treasure? Narrowing
>the focus of a question
> often brings a better response. Why not try asking again? I’ve never
Ok..I’ll try again. The top is a flea market find. The fabric is mostly in
good condition…when I bought it I thought it had only one small hole, but
I’ve found more and just tonight I discovered that what I thought was a
ripped seam, may be a rip in an adjacent piece, too.
The quilt consists of only 3 fabrics, 2 in the pieced blocks, and an
alternating fabric, so unless I could find the EXACT same fabric, I can’t
replace anything.
My question was twofold:
1. The quilt is not quite as large as I would like. What about adding
borders (it already has one set of borders from the alternating fabric)?
(I got one response to this question)
2. The alternating fabric is badly faded, to the point that its
original green is barely discernable. The blocks are pink and white. Any
suggestions on what to do to make it look like a ‘planned’ quilt, and not
like someone just threw together an off-white contrast in a pink-and-white
quilt? Is appliquing a possibility, or would it be better to quilt the
alternating blocks in the original green color?
Jocelyn
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 10:47:04 -0500 (EST) | From: AMDOODAH [at] aol [dot] com
Is there anyone out there writing a book or producing a chart that would be a
standard for describing colors used in old fabrics ? It would be IMMENSELY
helpful if we had something of this nature to refer to. Someone suggested
buying the BIG box of Crayons and using those color names but they sound too
“modern”. We have color names like Cheddar, Eli Walker Green, Poison Green,
etc. that seem to be specific to the study of oldquilts/old fabrics. Are
these names also used in costuming or any other art form ? It would be great
if we all could have an (economical) reference chart for these discussions (
and of course for descriptive Mail order lists !). Joan Stevens
AMDOODAH [at] aol [dot] com
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 12:03:21 +0400 | From: Xenia Cord
Hi, all – an addendum, if you don’t mind. I think the idea of a color
chart is an excellent one – who’s ready to put one together?
As historians or whatever, we should try to suppress those inaccurate
color names when we can. (Do you like that term?) Ely Walker green may
be OK, since it refers to a company, but “poison” green is a
contemporary term, as are cheddar and Depression green. Perhaps first
we need to have a good grip on the names that were used when the colors
were current the first time. (This is one of the reasons we need to
keep swatch cards/fabric samples from manufacturers in their original
form – they often refer to color by name, and to fabric by name/type.)
Xenia
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 11:41:35 -0800 | From: Sharon Harleman Tandy
In the general discussion on Prussian Blue, those very few examples I’ve
seen which were described as PB, the best “word picture” I can give is:
a rich, strong, nearly teal blue (not teal green), with a distict acidic
tone to it. It usually stands out from other, more drab colors in the
print. With the training of an artist, sometimes I recommend that, to
identify a color, go to your local artists’ supply store and ask to see
a color chart. Prussian Blue is a specific color, based on certain
chemicals and minerals. You might even get an artist friend (or even
the clerk) to take the cap off a tube of oil/watercolor/acrylic paint
and show you the actual color. The best would be a smear of the color
on a piece of white paper which you could keep in a notebook. Sharon,
Quilts & Answers, Boise, Idaho.
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 11:52:32 -0800 | From: Sharon Harleman Tandy
Actually, since Barbara Brackman suggested it at QRS in September, I’ve
been planning to do exactly that, with input from anyone who has a
suggestion, of course. I’ve worked with the Pantone Color System for
many years and am looking into the cost of the larger, professional
version from which to “pull” colors as I only have the smaller, student
size. I’ll accept all help and suggestions so this can be from and for
all of us. Thanks, Sharon, Quilts & Answers, Boise, Idaho.
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 10:36:41 -0800 | From: “Caroline M. Beetley” Brenda,Thank you soooo much for the information on Nebraska’s Quilt Preservation
Project & the International Quilt Research Center. I remember several
months ago that someone posted regarding the donation of quilts by the
Jameses & I was very interested then and even more so now. I am a native
Nebraskan, currently living in Pasadena, California. Most of my immediate
family is in Nebraska & my heart is still there (Go Huskers!), so
naturally, I was very excited to hear about the preservation project that
NSQG is doing. Even more than that, though, is the International Quilt
Research Center. What an exciting and worthwhile venture. I truly hope
that it becomes a huge success. Thanks for sharing this information & I
hope that you and Sara have survived the huge snow storm without too much
damage!Caroline Beetley (cbeetley [at] fuller [dot] edu), wishing I were in Nebraska now,
even with all the cold and snow.
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 17:47:29 -0500 | From: Alan I had a correspondence with a woman researching her ancestress’ 1735
will. Kris had posted a copy of another message from this same lady
last week. She (Hugenot) had asked me if I could verify that broderie
perse was being done and was it a predominantly Southern tradition. Of
course, I told her I had to consult my tomes before I could respond
properly!I went home and searched my books. Barbara Brackman’s “Clues” said the
earliest dated broderie was around 1775 (can’t remember exactly ). All
the photographs were between 1800 and 1845. The districts I found were
from about Virginia through Massachussets.So I wrote her and told her this. Haven’t heard from her since. Either
she’s really busy, or my response diappointed her.I don’t know if 1735 was the date her ancestress died, or if that’s when
the will was written. I went on the assumption her death was circa 1735
(can you tell I date quilts? ).What do you think? This was my gut response before I researched it, so
I’m comfortable with it, but as broderie perse is not my strongest
subject, history-wise, I was wondering what y’all knew.AlanDate: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 20:26:21 +0000 | From: “The Garretts” Last week someone asked for information about Anne Orr. One response was sent
to the list, and then we received on the list a thank you for all the responses
sent directly to the person asking the question. I am now asking for
information and would be very grateful if those who responded to Edna privately
would please either send me a copy of their information, or send it to the list
so the several hundred other people wanting to learn can also benefit from your
gracious sharing. Thank you for taking the time to answer.Barb in southeastern PA
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 18:07:32 -0800 | From: Jocelyn (by way of Quilting Heritage ListServ>I do have a question. A friend of my daughters would like me to do
> “something” with a top her grandma made. It is made of 12 squares of
> white material which have little girl type scenes outline embroidered on
> them. Each square is sashed with a bubble gum color of pink. The
> sashing does not feel like cotton, but I am unable to identify and do
> not want to do a burn test. She would like it tied. The squares are
> about 18″. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Connie,
If she wants it tied, I’d go with that! Why put in extra work, if she
doesn’t think it’ll be an improvement?
If I were going to quilt it, I guess I’d outline the figures in the
embroidered scene, and then quilt the sashing, too.
Jocelyn
