Quilts and Quiltmakers Covering Connecticut

by The Connecticut Quilt Search Project

As one of the thirteen original colonies, Connecticut made unique contributions to the development of America's textile industry. Until now, however, quilts from this historic state have only been viewed in bits and pieces through other states' documentation projects and museum collections. This beautifully illustrated book is the culmination of ten years of documentation and research and shows more than 145 outstanding and diverse quilts from Connecticut. They range from a signed and dated, pre-Revolutionary War Medallion quilt to a Grandmother's Flower Garden made by one of Connecticut's most prolific twentieth-century quiltmakers. Beyond the wonderful colors and shapes of the quilts are the fascinating stories of their makers, women and men whose lives were interwoven in Connecticut's rich history. This book is a must for students of quilt history, women's studies, textile enthusiasts, and devotees of American history.

Genres: History

176 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2001

Reviews

[Jean Carlton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of the many books written to showcase quilts documented across the United States, this one stands out. Over eight hundred trained volunteers spent more than four years (1992-1996) documenting quilts in Connecticut—from historical societies and museums, to public and private events across the state. Four thousand plus items, including quilts, tops, comforters and summer spreads were examined, data recorded, histories taken from owners or available records—then photographed. Seven authors from that hard-working group then set about creating this fascinating book that tells the personal stories of the textiles and their makers.
Tempting though the pictures may be, close reading of each page is warranted for maximum enjoyment.
Included: Table of Contents, Appendix I and II, End Notes, Bibliography, Index, Epitaph, A Legacy (where the archives of over 50 binders are located)