Hobo Quilts: 55+ Original Blocks Based on the Secret Language of Riding the Rails

by Debra G. Henninger

unrealistic prince charmings or something

Genres: Quilting, Nonfiction, History, Crafts

256 pages, Paperback

First published April 8, 2010

Reviews

[Phyllis Runyan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book. Back in the 1930s there were thousands of Hobos jumping trains and traveling all over the US in search of jobs and food. They left different signs at homes and other locations for other hobos to either indicate where food could be found or whether it was safe or not. Those symbols were made into quilts and this book not only shows the quilts and how to make them but also on each page there are stories from different hobos about life on the rails.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely book of quilt blocks, each one a code for hobos to know what they should expect at the next stop. Each block has a story, a memory from the past. During the depression people were on the move, looking for work, adventure or just survival.

[Mrs. Frankenstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pick this book up after my grandpa died with the intention of using his old shirts to make a couple quilts for the great grand kids as a story quilt. My Grandpa started working in the railroad during the new deal and and I want them to still know him even though he is in heaven. This book just made it perfect and I have found many uses for the blocks!

[Kellie C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

The piecing instructions could be more precise and clear. However, the anecdotes and stories of people who lived(or were witness to) the hobo life are fascinating. A hobo quilt is on my "must make" list.

[Niki · Rating 3 out of 5]

The anecdotes and the photographs were fascinating. The quilts were secondary.

[Jennifer Hein · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up from the library. The stories included are interesting. My husband's grandfather "rode the rails" during the Depression.

[Patricia W. Tidwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute ideas that are train related. Lots or new (to me) patches.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not just a quilt book. The hobo history and photos from the Library of Congress, make this an exceptional READ, not just a quilt book.

[CK529 · Rating 4 out of 5]

In addition to quilt patterns, this book is filled with first hand accounts from people who rode the rails. Fascinating and horrific accounts.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up for my mom at a used bookstore, since the subject piqued my interest.

This is a great little book, not only for the 55+ blocks and several unique designs, but it has a lot of recollections of the almost forgotten hobo culture of the early 20th century. It's a neat way to keep the lore alive, and I hope my mom will like it.

[Jeni Hankins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am already enjoying this incredible quilt book. It's basically a book of quilt blocks based on Hobo signs, but what I love most about it are the first hand accounts reproduced in the book. That really gets my songwriter wheels turning.

[Melody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting way to learn about the Great Depression through hobo signs. There are some simple but beautiful quilt patterns in this book. Some day I'd like to try making some of the squares.

[Mckinley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. In addition to block patterns for hobo 'codes' and complete quilt projects there are short stories and quotes from people riding the rails along with photos from 1880s to 1940s.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great primary accounts of life near the rails during the depression.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful book with stories of quilts from days gone by.

[Susie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thw short hobo stories are interesting. The pictures are great. The quilt blocks pretty simple however the directions are skimpy, especially for a beginner.

[Teckla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Along with photos of hobo quilt blocks are personal stories of people living during the Great Depression and their experiences of riding the rails.