15th Annual Quilt Show

“Stack and Whack,” “Bandana Fury,” “Chasing Windmills,” and “Dogs in Sweater” are just a few of the works on display at the 15th Annual Spring Quilt Show at the Visitor Center at Historic Fort Steuben that will run from April 7-18.

“Over thirty-four entrants from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia have submitted their creations for the exhibit,” explained Paul Zuros, Director of Historic Fort Steuben. “There are forty-five unique entries spanning 85 years with both traditional and new designs.”

“We ask the entrants to tell us if there are any stories connected to their quilts, and there are quite a few,” Zuros said. “The oldest was started about 1939 or 1940 by woman who purchased individual blocks through the mail, embroidered them and then put them away for many years. Her daughter finally pieced them and brought the finished quilt for our show.”

Quilts reflect their times as well as the creativity of their makers. The quilts in this year’s show are made from flour sacks, cotton, felt, Crown Royal bags, competition ribbons, and bandanas. Some are hand-stitched while others are machine sewn.

“We encourage visitors to read the stories behind the quilts,” added Zuros. “They offer a glimpse into other lives and other times.”

In addition to the exhibit, a 92”x65” heart themed quilt by the late Helen Sweeney will be raffled off. Tickets are $5 and the winner will be drawn on June 9th.  Visitors also can vote for their favorite quilt at $1/vote, with proceeds to benefit Historic Fort Steuben.

The display will be open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm or by appointment and is free to the public. Historic Fort Steuben is located at 120 S. 3rd Street in Steubenville, Ohio. For more information call 740.283.1787.