Quilting expert Barbara Cline demonstrates her technique at last year's Salem Museum Quilt Workshop. / Photo courtesy of the Salem Museum

We Americans—southerners especially—love our quilts! They are beautiful bed coverings, stunning wall hangings and treasured family heirlooms. On Sept. 28-29, visitors to the Salem Museum will have the opportunity to learn more about the history and craftsmanship embodied in the quilter’s art! The agenda for the two day event is below:

Friday , Sept. 28 at 7 p.m.: Quilts of the Civil War–Lecture by Neva Hart
In both the North and South, there was a battle on the homefront during the Civil War—the battle to cover those at war and at home. “Who had time to quilt?” you might wonder. But sewing was simply a survival skill during wartime. Hospital supplies, bed rolls, “housewives” (sewing kits) and even shrouds were needed for soldiers. Meanwhile, signature album quilts with hand-penned sentimental verses covered the aching hearts of those left at home.

Quilt historian Neva Hart of Virginia will make you feel as if you were there, helping these dedicated quilters as they prepare for–and endure– war. Learn what they made, how they did it, and what survived the turmoil as she explains why Scarlett O’Hara and Melanie Wilkes had their hands full.

Tickets for this fascinating presentation are $5. Neva will also offer “Road-show “style appraisals following the program for $15/ quilt, with proceeds benefiting the Salem Museum.

Saturday September 29: “Chinese Checkers” Workshop
On Saturday avid quilters will have the unique opportunity to learn from a master! Nationally known quilter Barbara Cline will offer a class on the stunning “Chinese Checkers” pattern, her own personal design.

Set up will start at 8 a.m. over coffee, and we’ll start sewing promptly at 9 a.m., finishing up by 4 p.m. A sewing machine and some experience are required. The supply list is available upon registration. The class fee is $55 and includes the pattern. Space is limited and filling fast! An optional lunch can be ordered for $10.

In addition to teaching our quilting seminar, Barbara has graciously agreed to donate one of her quilts for the museum to raffle as a fundraiser! Look for details soon on how this beautiful “Shenandoah Star” hanging can be yours!

For more details or to register, email info@salemmuseum.org or contact the Salem Museum at 540-389-6760 or Candy Long, coordinator for the event, at 540-389-2898.

Submitted by the Salem Museum.

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