Lucretia Mott’s Quilt As part of a comprehensive project to care for its extensive costume and textile collections, curators reexamined the holdings of quilts and coverlets, totaling about 75 pieces. This process revealed a number of unique and exciting pieces, including this silk patchwork quilt made by Lucretia Coffin Mott. The large quilt was donated in 1967 by Mrs. J. G. Richard Heckscher, a descendant of the famous feminist, from Devon, Pennsylvania. It is T-shaped to fit over a four-post bed (note the ties to attach to posts), and from top to foot measures nearly ten feet. The unique design elements are carefully planned and completely hand sewn, pieced with many small blocks of fabric, including diamonds, triangles, and a sunburst motif at the foot of the quilt. It was likely made from scraps of old garments, as many of the silks are modest silks and drab colors that were frequently used in Quaker dress. It is fully lined and Lucretia embroidered her name and the date 1833 on the lining at the top. As of one of the most exciting pieces of needlework in the NHA collection, please enjoy it on display in the current exhibition, The Road from Abolition to Suffrage in the Williams Forsyth Gallery at the Whaling Museum.
THANK YOU Special thanks to Elizabeth Gilbert for her steadfast and expert help conserving our textile collection.
Silk patchwork quilt, 1833 Lucretia Mott (1793–1880) Silk, cotton, velvet 101” H x 117” W, side length 73”, bottom width 57”. Gift of Mrs. J. G. Richard Heckscher
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