Patchwork Quilt with Text

DateJanuary 1891

DimensionsOverall: 155 x 188 cm

Credit LineGift of Harriet Westman, London, Ontario, 1962

Object number1962.097.013

Label TextElizabeth Westman Beebe (1843-1905), City Missionary in Ithaca, New York, owned this red and white scripture quilt. Working in “the Rhine,” a poverty-stricken part of Ithaca, she undertook many tasks including caring for and supporting the inhabitants, fundraising, and conducting nondenominational services. The circumstances surrounding the making of this quilt are lost. It might have recognized the importance of faith to Beebe and her work. It might also have served as a fundraising tool. Perhaps supporters paid to choose a piece of scripture and have Tillie F. Warren embroider it on the quilt. The varying lengths of the quilting stiches in the red sashing suggests that different people might have made this quilt. It might even be an example of “quilting-as-you-go.” In this method, each block or section is assembled and quilted separately. The different blocks are then assembled into a larger quilt.

NameQuilt

CopyrightPhoto Credit: Alex Walker