St. Paul's United Methodist Church members creating signature quilt in fund raising effort

by Alyce May

What does one think of when they hear the word “quilt”? Most generally, the first response is warmth. However, when homemade and personalized touches are added, isn’t it amazing how one’s perception and value of the quilt increases? With these additions, memories, friendship, and stories are all brought forth simply by looking at the completed work of art.
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Waukon is making a signature quilt to be prominently displayed in the church when it’s completed later this fall. This signature quilt will be comprised of 100 five-inch-square blocks with the completed quilt 60 inches square.
Since St. Paul’s Church was established in 1871, reproduction Civil War print cotton fabric is being used for the quilt blocks to signify that era. Using a fabric gel pen, the personalized signature is written on a white muslin strip which is the center rail of the pieced block. All current and former members of St. Paul’s are invited to be a part of this historic endeavor.
In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, fundraising signature quilts were quite popular. By obtaining donations from people for the privilege of having their names appear on this type of quilt, groups could raise funds for various causes. This keepsake quilt will help preserve forever in cloth remembrances of friends and family and warm feelings of affection and friendship. A quilt is symbolic of family and friendship ties, all stitched together with love.
Just as signature quilts were a common means to raise money in the mid 1860s to the early 1900s, St. Paul’s would like people to contribute as much as they feel comfortable with for the privilege of adding their signature to this group project. In addition to signatures, donors may also add a Bible verse or "in memory of ..." blocks. Asterisks will be added to former members’ names, a cross will be placed by the names of a member’s grown children who had once been members, and hearts will represent deceased members. Thus far, over 50 quilt blocks have been received from across the United States, with New Mexico being the farthest distance.

For additional information, individuals may contact Kathy Hannum at 563-568-4620, Dianne Rissman at 563-568-4772, or Darla Tinderholt at 563-568-4312. It is hoped to have all quilt blocks returned by the end of September to allow time to assemble, sew, and complete the quilt by this November.