Exhibits                           

"Quilts"

The History Center has dozens of quilts in its collection. These quilts tell countless stories about the women who made them and the families that treasured them. Quilting is one of the oldest art forms with evidence of quilting dating back to ancient Egypt and China. Unlike early American quilters, the quilters of today make   creations that do much more than provide warmth. Quilting is an outlet to show both skill and creativity. A quilter puts his or her heart and soul into each stitch. Studying quilts and their significance can tell us a lot about not only the person who created the quilt, but about the times in which he or she lived. This exhibit explores the people of Linn County as captured in over 100 years of quilt making.

Quilts reveal a multitude of historical topics simply by the design, fabric choice, and reason they were made. Westward expansion, pioneer life, development of the textile industry, wars, politics, economics, religion, and working women are just of few of the histories reflected in the patterns of American quilts.  

The History Center is partnering with the East Iowa Heirloom Quilters to present this temporary exhibit. In addition to the exhibit opening on January 21st, a special reception will be held on Saturday, March 3rd to showcase the art quilts that will be on view in the conference room. Check the website for additional quilt programs being offered throughout the duration of the exhibit.