Underground Railroad Quilts

Title: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 03, 2008, 06:04:05 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Merry Bee here is a pic of my quilt top, hope it helps some, will have to get Butterfly to post a pic of hers again


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 03, 2008, 06:05:15 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here is Butterfly's


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 03, 2008, 07:01:53 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think you two did fine jobs on your blocks. It encourages me. I am still wondering what sashing I will use. I like both of them brown sashing on yours and red on Butterfly's. Thanks for posting those, you two. Now maybe I will get mine done and add it.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 03, 2008, 08:46:18 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ok, here are my URR blocks. I just finished the last one tonight, and have two more that didn't make the cut. Any suggestions what to use for sashing? Borders? I am going shopping tomorrow for something to use in it. .


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on February 03, 2008, 08:54:10 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Like your blocks.... how about a navy blue???


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 03, 2008, 09:09:20 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Golo, that is exactly what I was thinking. Now what about the texture....tone on tone....pin dots...any other thoughts?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on February 03, 2008, 09:17:38 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thats hard to pick without seeing the fabric next to your blocks... I am sure you will pick something great....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 03, 2008, 11:31:12 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think navy blue too, real dark shade, perhaps with a teeny little print would be great. Love your blocks


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 04, 2008, 12:10:47 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thinking of doing something in the sashes. Maybe stars and bars or some flying geese, friendship star.... at the cornerstones. Whatcha think?

Going to the LQS for fabric for sashes and borders now. yea :D.


Whee----doodle-dee -doo dah! YES!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: QBee - Mary Ann on February 04, 2008, 02:26:06 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Love the blocks in all of your URR quilts. I know there's great controversy about whether the quilts were used as signals. First book I read was a compelling argument for - since then seem to be more compelling arguments against, or at least as unprovable. No matter what I think the blocks can help tell the history and promote understanding.

Merry Bee - since you asked - here's my two cents worth - I fear designs in the sashing might compete too much with the blocks - but I really like the idea of stars in the cornerstones. I also know whatever you decide will look wonderful! QBee


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 04, 2008, 02:27:09 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I agree, might make it too busy with designs in sashing but cornerstone stars would be good, have fun


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Jeannine on February 04, 2008, 03:26:37 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know if this is right place to put this .

It was interesting to see these quilts. I have done the blocks and so far have not been able to make my mind up about how to finish it.

Very close to my heart this one as I have collected all kinds of stuff about the slave trade since I was a girl.

I am from Hull in the UK, the birthplace of William Wilberforce who was responsible for abolishing slavery in England, I grew up being captivated by his museum and it became a fascination that stayed with me.

For about 4 years now I have been designing a quilt that depicts slavery, still in the planning stage, some are appliqued blocks taken from images in the museum, some are still just pictures in my head.

I would welcome contact with ayone else who has a similar interest.

Thank you for sharing your quilts, I really enjoyed looking at them.


I agree with QueenBee about wether the blocks were used as signals, on the whole I tend to go with the yes voters but with many reservations, but the idea is a super one and I like to think it is the right one. Certainly the quilts and stories will keep the topic up front where it should be

XX Jeannine


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 04, 2008, 03:36:58 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jeannine it fascinates me too, sounds like you are designing a beautiful quilt, would love to hear more. I lived in Savannah Georgia USA for a year, hubby is from there, deep south has so much slave history. I used to go to the Slave Markets in Charleston, Sth Carolina to shop, loved it there and it was there that I unknowingly met Ozella McDaniel Williams the lady who told the code to Jaqueline Tobin who wrote the book Hidden In Plain View. Would love to see your blocks


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 04, 2008, 04:26:22 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jeannine, I studied the myth/history of the quilt code too. I don't know if it is true or not. But I tend to believe it. For our purpose a quilt is a good thing, anyway. We talked about it, and my daughter said that it would be good to use in her class anyhow, because kids like codes, and they are singing "Follow the Drinking Jug" (code for the Big Dipper/North Star.) So many songs, and drawings had double meaning, because the slaves lacked the freedom to talk among themselves and certainly had to cloak their escape plans in codes...i.e. singing spirituals, etc. We love the idea of the sampler quilt anyhow. I know they use d quilts with a single motif, not samplers, but the quilt willl have meaning. I am almost sure the Friends/Quakers used quilts as signals, I just feel it in my bones.... :)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 04, 2008, 05:40:57 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stopped by the LQS today on the way home from the dentist Dwatted woot canals, anyhow!

I saw a quilt there that used as sashings the fabric from the blocks. All were different, and they worked together really well. I will try that on a few blocks and see how it looks. At the end of each strip in the lattice, there was the little square patch snipped into a point that form a friendship star at the cornerstones. These were done dark brick red.

I didn't like the navy they had at all.

I was thinking of trying a few strips of my black I just got from Keepsake Quilting, ordered for other purposes. Just have to cut some strips and let the blocks try them on until they find something they like wearing....then we work on borders. This is fun.

Hope you all get into making some Civil War quilts or 1800s stuff. I have lots of fabric left and we could play with more ideas for a while together.

I put off finishing this for so long because I had a lot of fabric, it is not fabric that is my usual choice, and I was out of my element. But it needs doing. This is African American awareness month, and I just wanted to do something significant. It is a painful era of history, and hurts to think about it.

I want to think that people helped their neighbors escape brutal treatment in cruel captivity. I want to think that women were instrumental in ending slavery. Sheesh, get me off this subject.

Quilts! Let's make quilts. :)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 05, 2008, 10:54:42 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know Merrybee but I was thinking of the brick red for an inner border and sashing. Nothing too bold as the quilt is georgous. Do you have a home for it??????? ;D
I love URR history, quilts anything.Iget a monthly newsletter from www.womanfolk.com . This month really good one on the civil war quilts and books , just marvelous newsletter. Take a look. The newletter is free, free patterns too. I downloaded the army cot one...well almost all of them to tell the truth ::) . tlcquiltnut


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 05, 2008, 11:02:39 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'll check out that site, thanks! I had the same idea about the brick red last night, TLC. I laid it on my work table and put some blocks on it, letting the red peek through as sashing. It looks good. I will probably use that.

The quilt is for DD to use at school in an underpriviledged area. The kids are always eager and happy when she comes up with new ideas... unlike her principal. I just wish I had made it for her for this month. She will get it when she gets it though. I am a slow quilt maker, I have a lot of other interests, besides sewing. But they are usually really nice when they finally get done, IMHO, and people seem to treasure them.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 05, 2008, 11:48:39 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I didn't find anything on that link about a newsletter or about signing up for it, TLC.

Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Marian on February 06, 2008, 05:36:23 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Absolutely love your blocks and quilts ladies. Very nicely done, you should be proud of yourselves! I am just starting to gather information about the underground railroad and the quilts from that time period. I find it quite interesting. I, for one, would like to believe that the underground railroad quilts really did exist and that there were people looing out for others and prtecting them in there time of need. I cannot imagine the frar these people must have felt, it must have been overwhelming.
Marian in Ohio


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: betweens on February 06, 2008, 05:42:35 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


I had to modify this abit.. Merrybee I think you were looking at what to do for the boarders.. I am not sure if you have the book if you do take a look at page 83- the boarder used in this quilt is just exquisite. I Love the blocks she used.. you know if you used your stronger black I think it would look perfect iwth this boarder and then your reds for the triangles take a look I think you will like it.

Deb


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 06:25:39 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Re: Today
« Reply #106 on: Today at 06:17:40 AM » Quote Modify Remove Split Topic

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quote from: Marian on Today at 05:07:16 AM
I have been starting to research the underground railroad and it's quilts. I have heard there is even an undergroound railroad museum some place. Anyboy know of it???

Marian in Ohio



Morning Marian, The small town I live it was on the path of the Underground Railroad. It was on the route coming from the South and going North. There was only one house in our town that was part of the route. I have been inside that "hiding spot". It was much like what was described in the Elm Creek books. There was a section of the lower half of a wall in the dining room (about a 4 x 4' entry) where the wainscoating could be removed and an area was "dug" out. This was an outside wall.There would have been room for maybe 4 or 5 slaves. Big enough only to crawl in and sit. I was in that little hiding spot once and even to a child it was very small. Walls and floor were dirt. The next stop on the route was about 11 miles from here with a river to cross. It is indeed very interesting.


NOTE: I moved this post from "Today" to this post--seemed more appropriate.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 06, 2008, 08:25:53 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Opps I am sorry here is the link . http://groups.yahoo.com/group/quilthistory/
At the very bottom is a place that says, join the group. tlcquiltnut


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: missmommy on February 06, 2008, 08:53:46 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A good read on the topic:

Hidden in Plain View.

I offer this as extra credit reading to my classes.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 06, 2008, 08:57:11 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dont know if this will take up too much room, here is the news letter with web site links. tlcquiltnut


news letter news letter news letter


I've been busy adding patterns and a couple of other small items.

There are three new Civil War quilt patterns on my Patterns From
History site.

At http://www.patternsfromhistory.com/civil_war/eagle_quilt.htm
is a Union Eagle quilt with stars and stripes. I also mention a bird
found on some Confederate quilt (you will be surprised).

While at
http://www.patternsfromhistory.com/civil_war/gunboat_quilts.htm you
will find instructions on how to make a gunboat quilt. There is a
picture of one so you can see what these armored boats looked like.

Both of these quilt are of a quality and style to have been used to
raise funds for the war effort for one side or the other.

http://www.patternsfromhistory.com/civil_war/cot_quilt.htm
Last is a simple soldier's cot quilt that could have been used in a
hospital or on the field.

There are a few things other quilt historians have been doing that
you will find interesting.

Deb Roberts has posted some wonderful French fabrics and quilts on
her site. Read about them at
http://www.womenfolk.com/quilt_notes/mulhouse.htm

Barbara Brackman has a new block of the month going which include an
article about the Underground Railroad with a quilt block for each
article. http://www.womenfolk.com/quilt_notes/ugrr.htm

Kimberly Wulfert has some interesting information on that acid green
seen in mid 19th century quilts. It is sometimes called Poison Green
for very good reason. Find out why.
http://quiltersspirit.blogspot.com/search/label/Antique%20Fabric
Look in her antiques quilt section to see some examples.

I'm going back to the 1970s next complete with olive green, earth
browns and golden oranges. I'll tell you more about this next month.

Judy Anne



__._,_.___



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 09:48:08 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: missmommy on February 06, 2008, 08:53:46 AM
A good read on the topic:

Hidden in Plain View.

I offer this as extra credit reading to my classes.


Missmommy--I have this book--it's on my next to read list.
Ummm........do I get extra credit too??????


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: QBee - Mary Ann on February 06, 2008, 10:15:43 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have Barbara Brackman's book, which is shown at the link TLC showed us. I wonder if she's going to use articles and blocks from the book in her BOM project. I thought the book was very interesting, though she is definitely opinionated about there not being proper historical proof that the quilts were used as codes for the URR. I'm of the mind that many things may have happened that weren't documented. (of course, I'm not an educated historian) I also really like her block patterns.

I've read a good part of "Hidden in Plain View" - though, I have to admit I got kind of bogged down reading it. I've thought I might take another look at it - skim through and read or re-read the parts I find most interesting. Gee! I'm not feeling very smart, if missmommy's students read this for extra credit and an oldie like me is saying I didn't finish it! :-[

QBee




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 11:14:46 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: betweens on February 06, 2008, 05:42:35 AM

I had to modify this abit.. Merrybee I think you were looking at what to do for the boarders.. I am not sure if you have the book if you do take a look at page 83- the boarder used in this quilt is just exquisite. I Love the blocks she used.. you know if you used your stronger black I think it would look perfect iwth this boarder and then your reds for the triangles take a look I think you will like it.

Deb


Color me dense, Deb, but I do not know which book you cite here. I tried black on, and it was very bold and striking. Also the brick red is very nice. I would love to see the page 83 you have noted, even if I have to drive over to Barnes Noble Book store and peruse their merchandise. ;)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 06, 2008, 11:29:25 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wish you could come over and try some of the fabrics I have on hand Merrybee. We could have some fun I think. tlc


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 11:32:59 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you TLC! I will look up all those links. I have two thick folders of information I have collected about the Underground Railroad, and it seems that every time I make a quilt, I research the background as if it were a term paper or a Master's thesis. My Day of the Dead quilt took me on a very interesting journey into Mexico and the history of parts of the US that were Mexico at one time.

This quilt is much more difficult because of Barbara Brackman. ;) I have her book, Facts and Fabrications: Unraveling the History of Quilts & Slavery It has lovely quilts in it, and good instructions, some templates, etc, along with much information about the people who were involved in the struggle for freedom.


DD and I decided it would be a concrete symbol of what was going on during the time of slavery. If it is historically accurate..........great. If not, then it will be a wonderful myth to give tangible expression to the idea that finally people got up in arms to end slavery. Women fought on the home front by raising money selling their products, by hiding and feeding runaways, and by writing letter campaigns; while men fought in the war between the states. (Some call it the "war of southern rebellion" and others call it the "war of northern agression". I think that war was probably inevitable whatever name you put to it. :'( )

I am glad for your discussion here. It is immensely interesting to me. Thank all of you for your input. I will probably make another quilt because I have lots more fabric, and am just now getting adjusted to the colors and designs. It is way far out, a totally new venture for me.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 11:56:15 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 09:48:08 AM
Quote from: missmommy on February 06, 2008, 08:53:46 AM
A good read on the topic:

Hidden in Plain View.

I offer this as extra credit reading to my classes.


Missmommy--I have this book--it's on my next to read list.
Ummm........do I get extra credit too??????


(Paws, I can relate to your view. Sure, take some credit. Some books are clunky to read, I have found. Did you ever get through Moby Dick? That was on an assigned reading list, too. ;D Bogged down in that one, and got Cliff's Notes. Gave the Cliff's Notes to my DS who is more the math type... My Shakespeare professor said that even He uses Cliff's Notes for quick intros. Hmmmmmm ??? Wonder if that's how he got his doctorate?)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 12:12:52 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 11:56:15 AM


(Paws, I can relate to your view. Sure, take some credit. Some books are clunky to read, I have found. Did you ever get through Moby Dick? That was on an assigned reading list, too. ;D Bogged down in that one, and got Cliff's Notes. Gave the Cliff's Notes to my DS who is more the math type... My Shakespeare professor said that even He uses Cliff's Notes for quick intros. Hmmmmmm ??? Wonder if that's how he got his doctorate?)


NO WAY Merry Bee. Never read Moby Dick. Didn't read any more Shakespear than I was "forced" too.
Not on my prefered reading selections. When John was in HS he had to read "Where the Red Fern Grows", that was required in his English class in the '80's. He loved that book and so did I. Probably not many of us has heard of it. Just us older toots ;D ;D ;D .

Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 12:15:41 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beautiful book. Loved it. Captain Ahab should have read books like that, and maybe he would have been nice.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Marian on February 06, 2008, 12:38:13 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for the info on the sites. Will check them out tommorrow. This is such an interesting topic! Thanks for the name of the books as well, will check them out.
Marian in Ohio


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 01:46:54 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here is a link that has a beautiful example of E. Burns URR Quilt. I love the fact that you can click on a block and get a big picture of it.

http://www.gatheringfabric.com/saturday_sampler/sampler_2004.html


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: QBee - Mary Ann on February 06, 2008, 01:53:29 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I remember my kids reading "Where the Red Fern Grows" and now grandkids are reading it. Sounds like I should catch up and read it myself. Freshman year in college (back when the dinosaurs roamed the earth) I was in an Honors English program. When it came to "Moby Dick" I wrote my papers based on notes I took during class and Cliff's Notes. :o No matter how ashamed of myself I am, I still don't think I could make my way through that book. Maybe I should read Cliff's Notes again to refresh my memory? ;D QBee


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 02:05:43 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: QueenBee on February 06, 2008, 01:53:29 PM
I remember my kids reading "Where the Red Fern Grows" and now grandkids are reading it. Sounds like I should catch up and read it myself. Freshman year in college (back when the dinosaurs roamed the earth) I was in an Honors English program. When it came to "Moby Dick" I wrote my papers based on notes I took during class and Cliff's Notes. :o No matter how ashamed of myself I am, I still don't think I could make my way through that book. Maybe I should read Cliff's Notes again to refresh my memory? ;D QBee


QB--it was a good video too. There was also a second video where the boy went to war and when he came back home. A bit sad!!! Didn't think kids were still reading that book--that's great!!!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on February 06, 2008, 02:09:09 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tammy..thanks for those wonderful links. I just love the history of quilts...and especially like researching the old fabrics/quilt styles. It makes quilting so much more interesting for me.

MerryBee..I've gotten side tracked in the history of quilts at times..but I find it so interesting! I wish they had taught that sort of thing when I was in school instead of making us remember dates and places of battles. The why behind the battles is more interesting..and the way folks lived while the war was going on. Especially interesting to me is how the women went about doing things and "holding down the fort" while their men folk were away. I'm happy to hear that your DD is teaching History in a fun way..and quilts are so tactile kids just love them. I'm sure the lesson the kids are learning is one that will be remembered.
I thought of you the other day when a lady posted a Day of the Dead quilt she was making. It was posted on the primitive quilting site Deb gave us recently. The lady was piecing large building blocks in blacks/grays with dancing skeleton figures appliqued like they were on the blocks.She had cut the figures from a printed fabric. It had a black background. It was interesting. I suppose someone coming across that quilt without knowing the story of it might wonder what she was thinking? ;D I bet there are a lot of teens that would like it just because of it's being so unique. ;)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 02:14:33 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: QueenBee on February 06, 2008, 01:53:29 PM
I remember my kids reading "Where the Red Fern Grows" and now grandkids are reading it. Sounds like I should catch up and read it myself. Freshman year in college (back when the dinosaurs roamed the earth) I was in an Honors English program. When it came to "Moby Dick" I wrote my papers based on notes I took during class and Cliff's Notes. :o No matter how ashamed of myself I am, I still don't think I could make my way through that book. Maybe I should read Cliff's Notes again to refresh my memory? ;D QBee


Nah, just give the Cliff's Notes to the kids and make them read it. Builds character.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 02:24:55 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Finisher, that is an Alexander Henry fabric based on traditions and a painting by another famous person......cannot remember who. The skeletons are funny, aren't they? I backed the pinata quilt with a Day of the Dead quilt, and went ape with color......it is very loud. My Latina friend was at University working on her Master's degree, down in Mexico, during the all Saints Festival and said my quilt was exactly like the place during that time. Loud, colorful, too busy, and amazing.


My daughter is a music teacher, actually, and is using the URR quilt in conjunction with a code song, "Follow the Drinking Jug" about a route of escape following the Big Dipper and North Star. Kids love codes. I think History should be taught as the culture of music, art, architecture, philosophy, and (icky) religious fights, as well as the crafts, textiles and fashions of the day. Politics is just the tip of the iceburg to define what was.






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on February 06, 2008, 03:10:34 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm glad you know the fabric MerryBee. I'm sure my describing it wouldn't do it justice. It's an interesting fabric for sure! It sounds like your use of color was perfect for that quilt. ;D

I wish I had been lucky enough to have had more Teachers like your DD. She could just be teaching music..but she's adding in History and making it fun at the same time. She's obviously in the right Profession! ;D


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 06, 2008, 03:15:30 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oh ladies you are just to stimulating here. I love the civil war history and what the women did to survive. That is why I do the demonstration in the spring at the Fort. Gives me a chance to live it , if just for a couple days.
Did you know that the ladies bach then had a " fan code " so to speak. A certain "flip" of the fan meant on thing or another. We should use that today!lol And yes red was used in clothing back then. An older woman didn't wear her hair down but up. Lots of things....
MerryBee, so intesting that you research like that...where do you get your information. tlc(historical)quiltnut


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 04:38:51 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Library, on line, in researching, one souce lists lots more in the bibliography....I never get finished.

finisher, a detail of that fabric is in my album. You can see how loud the fabric was. A total disaster, but it was the back of the quilt. How I wish I had taken time to make two quilts instead. The front is the Pinata quilt. This one wass for a teacher, ESL bi-lingual Kindergarten class. Lots of Mexican workers put children in school here and the kids love things that remind them of home. They have grandparents, abuelos, back in Mexico and are only here part time.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: betweens on February 07, 2008, 08:48:52 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi MerryBee it is the Underground Railroad Sampler book by Eleanor Burns quilt in a day she has a great sashing idea.. I thought this is the book everyone had made their quilts out of cause all the patterns were the same.

Deb


Quote from: Merry Bee on February 06, 2008, 11:14:46 AM

Color me dense, Deb, but I do not know which book you cite here. I tried black on, and it was very bold and striking. Also the brick red is very nice. I would love to see the page 83 you have noted, even if I have to drive over to Barnes Noble Book store and peruse their merchandise. ;)
[/quote]


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 07, 2008, 02:39:58 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I thought that was the book you meant. I never did buy it, I just got the patterns here and there, since it seemed a fairly uncomplicated, straightforward project. My bookcases are so full, I might have to either get rid of books if I buy more, or try to fit another bookcase in here. LOL I usually find what I need nowadays for quilting without buying books, unless it is a special pattern. I will go find a copy of the book and take a peek. Tee hee, sneaky aren't I? Thanks for the suggestion!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 07, 2008, 07:57:15 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, I put a brick red sashing on the quilt and found a great paisley for the border. I think the binding will be the same as the border. I will post a pic when I finish it. I am planning another Civil War quilt, or runaway quilt, soon as this one is finished. I have lots of fabric and just love it. It took me a while, but my taste finally evolved enough to enjoy working with these colors and designs.

The back of the quilt will be music notes, alphabets, and stuff like that, for a music class/elementary ed theme. DD likes the back of her quilts to be pretty, too, and often uses the back to serve double duty. It's Ok, as long as you are machining the quilting, but you couldn't do that if you had to hand quilt through extra seams.

This is more a utility quilt, educational, to use in a classroom as a prop, so it will get some use. Good news is I can do the work on the machine and not worry about it. Hand work is too dear to put to everyday use, IMOP. IMHO [oops can you spell typo?]


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on February 07, 2008, 08:12:40 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What does IMOP stand for ??


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on February 07, 2008, 08:19:14 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In my own opinion.. I think? ???


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: sewnsew on February 07, 2008, 08:42:13 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Golo, it was a typo......lol. It was meant to be IMHO. ;D


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 07, 2008, 09:34:08 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

;D IMOPO typo ;) (In My Humble Opinion, tee hee)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 09, 2008, 04:34:02 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I finished my quilt and will deliver it to DD today. I stitched the border and lattice in the ditch, and will do some detail quilting on it after she has had it for a couple of weeks. There is a lot of blue in the border, but the colors don't show up well in the picture because there wasn't enough light when the picture was taken.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: betweens on February 09, 2008, 05:49:03 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

wow Merrybee it looks fantastic!! and you are so quick once you set your mind to something you are on a roll!! Your DD will be very happy with this

Deb


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on February 09, 2008, 06:59:51 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well..that turned out really good! It is hard to see the pattern of the borders..but it looks like it blends well with the rest of the quilt. ;D You sure did finish it up fast! I'm sure DD and the kids will love it. ;D


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on February 09, 2008, 10:29:30 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I like the red you used... looks really nice...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: quiltermarynel on February 09, 2008, 12:10:17 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am sure it will be appreciated!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 09, 2008, 01:36:51 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The red looks reeeeaaaaalllly gooooooddddd......love it....tlc


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on February 12, 2008, 01:09:25 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Looks great MB, love hte red and the border fabric looks delicous, do tell us what your DD says


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Marian on February 12, 2008, 04:59:23 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I just love the quilt, nice job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marian in Ohio


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: QBee - Mary Ann on February 12, 2008, 08:32:31 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A wonderful quilt, MBee!!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: hummerlou on February 12, 2008, 09:28:15 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beautiful quilt, MB!!!!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 12, 2008, 10:09:06 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

She was really thrilled with it. I could see the wheels spinning in her head, as she started making notes about each block and working out how to use it in her music class. She is going to use it on a wall, while she records each group singing the song "Follow the Drinking Gourd, as a background. Also she plans to sit in a circle at the edge of it and there is an overhead projector display of a mapped route of escape that ties in with her song. Then she took the folders of my notes, and the two books, and started making notes for a short introduction. The children she is teaching may very well have descended from someone who traveled on one of the routes.

I am not thrilled with the borders, but that's how it goes when you put something off until the last minute and then do a rush job on it. They are pretty but not high enough contrast. Overall, considering the rush job, it is pretty good, I guess.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Jeannine on February 14, 2008, 04:36:58 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your quilt looks lovely, mine has only got as far all the blocks being finished.

A big thank you to all who posted links, some have prompted a few more ideas for the abolition quilt I am currently designing.

XX Jeannine


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 20, 2008, 09:01:42 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TLCQuiltnut, where is that Civil War cot quilt posted? Didn't you post the pattern for it on this forum? I have the urge to make one to put on the couch, for Benny MacDuff and me to snuggle under. I have so much lucious fabric to use in it.

Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on February 26, 2008, 11:40:42 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Merrybee
The site is www.patternsfromhistory.com/civil_war/cot_quilt.htm
That should take you right to it.....you can download it in a pdf file right to your computer.....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on February 26, 2008, 01:55:54 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks, I found it last night when I had quit looking for it. :D Isn't that the way of life?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 08, 2008, 12:11:25 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

During slavery and during the Civil War, women turned to prayer and to sewing quilts, clothing for soldiers, and keeping the hearth warm. It is interesting that the women formed ladies aid societies to make these much needed items for the men. In my reading, I learned that they made items for strangers, knitted socks, and sent little notes and signatures to the unknown recipients. Women who had never learned to sew, learned, and spent time together in the enterprise.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: missmommy on March 08, 2008, 08:01:44 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: Pawstoquilt on February 06, 2008, 09:48:08 AM
Quote from: missmommy on February 06, 2008, 08:53:46 AM
A good read on the topic:

Hidden in Plain View.

I offer this as extra credit reading to my classes.


Missmommy--I have this book--it's on my next to read list.
Ummm........do I get extra credit too??????


Sorry I didn't see this until today...Of course you get extra credit for reading it! :2funny:


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: gimpy cat on March 10, 2008, 02:40:16 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My copy lives on the floor beside my bed, its 3/4 read, any credit forthcoming????


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Marian on March 13, 2008, 08:57:20 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anita loaned me her book Hidden in Plain View yesterday, Can't wait to start reading it.

Mary, thank-You soooo much for the information and patterns you sent to me in the mail. I really appreciate it and I am anxious to make the quilt. Hopefully weill get started on it after we move in a couple weeks.

Does anyone know where I can find fabric that represents that time period for the quilt?

Marian in Ohio


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 13, 2008, 09:51:55 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hancocks of Paducah:

http://www.hancocks-paducah.com/ItemList--Reproduction-Quilting-Fabric--m-309

I got pre-Civil War fabric, because the Underground RR operated mostly before the war. I got fabric that was from 1800-1850 era. I fudged a bit and used some red/yellow from a later era, because it was the color I needed. My DD is so excited about the repros.


My biggest problem was getting good backgrounds for the blocks. That era had busy background prints, that are hard for us to accustom ourselves to. I used some Thimbleberrries backgrounds I got from Keepsake Quilting, and some of the repro from Hancocks. If you don't have catalogues from these two companies, you should get them. They are great wish books.

https://www.keepsakequilting.com/requestcatalog.aspx


You are most welcome to the patterns.

I am sorry it took me so long to mail them. :embarassed: The envelope rode in my truck for a week before I remembered to go to the PO. We had insurance adjusters/roofer estimates, and plumbers out during that week and everything else got put on hold.

A lady in our quilt guild worked this project out as a BOM. I didn't use the Bowtie one, because it didn't look like a bowtie to me. Instead, I made a block that had a dimensional knot across the Bowtie. DD said the kids kept fiddling wiht that during music class. That was my plan, and I did it that way intentionally.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on March 13, 2008, 11:44:01 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Merry Bee,
There are alot of fabrics that can be used in CW(repro's) and not be...I call them cross over fabrics....thimbleberries is a good cross over.........staying with the character of the fabric or quilt is the trick don't you think?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 13, 2008, 12:31:14 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Origionally I wanted repros, but I have to agree with you now. I have my mind set on a certain look, and the quilts of that period sometimes had fabrics next to each other that we would not place there. Whether they did it by choice, or because they had to use what was available, I don't know.

We have our own ideas, though. We want plain next to elaborate, light next to dark or medium, and cannot easily get past that. So, yes, we can stay in the spirit of the era, but put our individual stamp on it. That is what quilters have always done.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 13, 2008, 01:13:46 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MerryBee..I agree that they did use much busier backgrounds back then. I'm doing a couple of projects that are the "prim" look..or you might call it aged or reproduction work? Using prints for the backgrounds in applique took a bit of getting used to..and some of the color combos are a bit odd to me..but once the quilt is together they look OK. I don't think you have to stay right on the mark with your fabric selections. Like Tammy said..you are going for a certain "feel".
I pretend shopped on the link you gave. There were some that really had me tempted! LOL


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 13, 2008, 01:19:45 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On Hancocks, or Keepsake? You can get catalogs from them and they are just the most wonderful wishbooks imaginable. Lots of good fabrics, inspiration, and time just slips away when you get one of these in the mail. Like a kid in a toy store, you look and drool.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on March 13, 2008, 01:26:14 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I so agree with you MBee.... I am trying to pick some oriental fabric out of Hancock... oh sooooo hard!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 13, 2008, 01:36:41 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Hancocks site is the one that had my finger twitching! LOL. They had some of that cheddar gold fabric that I love and haven't been able to find it for a while now. Most of the golds they have out now are sort of washed out looking to me? Not the deep rich color that I like so well. They had some indigo too... Boy I better stay out of that site or we're not going to get groceries next month! LOL

I have the catalogs too. Some of the fabrics are so wild and not my style at all..and then there are the ones I drool over.

Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 13, 2008, 01:58:04 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Golo, I love those oriental fabrics, and would not know where to begin choosing one and a project for it. Please post a picture if you do decide on a fabric and/or project for it.

Finisher, I hear a lot about cheddar gold, and never was sure which ones they are. Does the site label it as such?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on March 13, 2008, 05:45:34 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Merry Bee,
Cheddar Gold is just that a deep deep yellow gold....I don't know if they are labled as such though....they maybe but if you are in a QS they can take you right to them. If not make a search on the web site.
Just found some fabric with cheddar yellow in it....
Cheddar yellow was popular in the 20's-30's era....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on March 13, 2008, 06:17:53 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I like that Cheddar Gold... Check www.connectingthreads.com they have a new gold out.... might not be dark enough thou....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 13, 2008, 06:32:59 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Country Sunshine quilt I've been working on has some of that cheddar gold. It's a bit deeper and darker than the ones from the 30's and 40's...but I like those too! I see some peeking out in the pine Burr quilt too.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on March 13, 2008, 07:20:46 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wow finisher, beautiful.....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 13, 2008, 07:26:41 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I love the cheddar color, the fabric, and the Country sunshine blocks, too! I see why they call it cheddar gold, now, because that is an accurate description of it, for sure.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: golo on March 13, 2008, 08:14:10 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Finisher, love your country blocks.... that is really going to be a nice quilt....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 14, 2008, 06:21:46 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for the nice remarks about my quilt in progress..it's a BOM. I bought a yard each of 4 fabrics that were that cheddar gold from Joann's a couple of years ago..with no particular project in mind. Just stash building. I have used bits in several projects and as I'm seeing those yards shrink I've been looking to replace them with something similar. I've looked through a lot of websites and the golds that have been available are much softer and almost washed out looking compared to what I have. It just reinforces my resolve to buy fabrics that I really like because they won't be around later! Double pinks aren't as plentiful now either..or indigos..except for what Connecting threads has come out with. There used to a much bigger selection. I always grab up good browns too!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 14, 2008, 08:38:31 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yes, if you like a fabric this year, you will want it three or more years from now, and it might not be there. I wanted some dark green, for Christmas things, but right now, this yellow-green is in vogue. I don't care for it as much as the bluer, darker greens. I do not care for it at all, as a matter of fact. (When was I ever interested in being "en vogue"??!!)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 14, 2008, 12:42:17 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

yep..I agree about those greens MerryBee. This past Summer when I was making the Sylvia's Bridal Sampler I pulled the dark greens from my stash. I went into the store to get a few pieces to go along with what I had..and there was none! I had a better variety of colors at home than the store had AND..this is exactly why my stash never seems to get smaller. If I'm using a certain color that I like I try to replace the color with something similar...so I always have it on hand when the mood strikes me to make something. :idiot2: LOL In fact..I feel a little sad when I completely use up a fabric. :sad:


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 14, 2008, 02:41:22 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Me, too. I hoarded a small piece of a batik for a long time, and finally used part of it for a birthday swap and the rest for my twisted star. I am so glad I finally found something worthy of it. There is still a little bit, and it will go into a scrappy quilt, where I will see it once in a while. That brings me to an observation about scrappy quilts. Isn't it fun to look at them and remember the stories about them? Mother made quilts out of our scraps from sewing and from some clothes we outgrew while the fabric was still fresh. And my sis and I still look at those quilts and remember the fabrics we see there. DH thinks we are funny women.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: finisher on March 15, 2008, 05:46:35 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I've saved 1 1/4"strips from almost all of the fabrics I've used in quilts. I'm going to make a log cabin for me. I will be able to look at the fabrics and remember the quilt I made from it and who I made it for. I made one from dark greens and off whites/tans I had used for other quilts and my SIL begged it away from me. This time..when I make one I'm keeping it!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: Merry Bee on March 15, 2008, 06:00:12 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

:tickedoff: Better learn to JUST SAY NO when relatives come around begging...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title: Re: Underground Railroad Quilts
Post by: tlcquiltnut on March 15, 2008, 06:23:39 AM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Finisher ,
That is a wonderful idea.... I don't have children so don't have that problem , but if I did it would be hard for me to say no to them as I cant say no to my animals.....
My cousin asked me for a quilt once....then said ....my dog will be on it....well. She didn't get the quilt....not that I mind a dog on a quilt....but this quilt was my first and took me so long to do.....and her dog had lost of hair and was large. The quilt would have been toast....
I went to my friend who helped me paint my bedroom.....she is taking very good care of it.....