c. 1915-1920

Quilt

Amish quilts can be distinguished by the distinctive variations found in each community's quilts. The strong colors, fine materials, and meticulous craftsmanship seen in this example are typical of quilts made in the Old Order Amish settlement in Arthur, Illinois. The alternating fan pattern and turkey track embroidery stitches show the influence of the Indiana Amish community as well as Victorian crazy quilts. Although it was common practice for Amish women to purchase fabrics for quilts, this one was pieced with scraps from other sewing projects or cut from worn out clothing. It was likely a Sunday best quilt, possibly made by the mother of the bride.