Using a pattern called Split Nines (above), Nancy Norgaard of Cullowhee quilted this piece on display at the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. In Sunbonnet Sue (below) courtesy of Phoebe Linder of Cullowhee, each block represents a month of the year. A newer style of quilting uses raised patterns such as those found in the Ragtime quilt Betty Screven sewed from denim scraps. - Herald photos by Rose Hooper
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One of the reasons for restoring the Hooper House was to assist in "revitalizing our community's enthusiasm about our mountain heritage," said Jay Spiro, president of the Hooper House Foundation.
Officials with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, which is housed in the Hooper House, have pieced together an exhibit on quilting to celebrate that mountain heritage. "Quilters of Jackson County have impacted our lives for generations," said Julie Spiro, the chamber's executive director. "Quilts are often raffle items at churches to raise money for a new church project, or perhaps the local fire department. Quilts are considered prize possessions and heirlooms, and quilting has always been a social outlet and source of comfort to people during times of duress." An old mountain church tradition called for the ladies of the community to each quilt a square for a quilt to be presented to an expectant mother for her new baby. The baby quilt in the chamber's display is courtesy of Barbara Hooper of Tuckasegee. When hung outside on a clothesline, the Log Cabin quilt was used during the Civil War to symbolize a safe haven for those traveling on the Underground Railroad. While most quilts represent distinct patterns, crazy quilts, like some in the exhibit, are composed from a hodge-podge of materials, designs and sizes. The Southern Belle quilt on display in the chamber's window is an original concept by Etheree Chancellor of Cullowhee, who pieced embroidery work found in Hattie Hilda Allison's attic. The quilt was pieced by Chancellor, her daughter, Cordelia Meyer, Cathi Clayton and Jean Painter. This quilt will be given to the winner of a drawing next month during a fund-raising luncheon following services Sunday, April 6, at Cullowhee Baptist Church. All proceeds from tickets will fund the children's playground at the church. Tickets may be purchased at the chamber, Livington's Photo in downtown Sylva or at the church. |
