Sesquicentennial Challenge

Nan Scott

In 2009, Oregon will celebrate its sesquicentennial (150th birthday).  There will be a statewide focus on history and heritage and a once-in-our-lifetime opportunity to heighten public awareness of the role quilting has played in our past.

So … Here’s the challenge to be completed by June 2009:

• Using books and materials in our documentation library or other sources, research the history of a quilt or block pattern that was in existence in 1859. These could be quilts of the migration or those from Native American cultures.
• Submit with your quilt, the documentation or story that you found.
• Make a 1/4 scaled replica of that quilt or a wall hanging grouping of several of the blocks to represent the overall quilt design. For example: if you choose to make a 1/4 scaled replica and the original block size was 10", your replica block should be 5". This will create a quilt 1/4th the size of the original. If you don't want to do a whole quilt, you may make one or more full size blocks to represent the overall pattern.
• There are no specific measurement requirements.
• Fabrics, prints, and colors must be in keeping with those available in the mid nineteenth century. 
• All piecing, quilting, appliqué, and binding must be done by hand.  No electrical sewing machines or devices allowed.
  
  Electric lights ARE permitted!

This is not a competitive challenge where you have to keep your entry a secret from others. In fact you are ENCOURAGED to talk to others, get help in finding a pattern and learn about 19th century fabric choices. This is an exercise in learning about and celebrating our quilting past. You will gain a real appreciation of quilting in the 1850's and your work will be a great addition to the show theme: Treasures of the Quilting Trail.

Entries will be displayed in local area businesses and public venues in June and July to publicize the quilt show and will be featured in a special historical display at the show.