Civil War Stories Told through Patterns

I love to read historical facts related to quilting. So you shouldn’t be surprised to hear that Barbara Brackman is one of my quilting heroes. I am just amazed by all the time and research she has dedicated to bring us so much information on the history of quilting.

Barbara tells us: “2011 is the anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. 150 years ago today [Jan. 1, 2011] people were apprehensive about the New Year, waiting to see if any other Southern states would join South Carolina in seceding from the Union, waiting to see if the newly elected President Lincoln would let them go…” [Ref.]

In honor of this anniversary, Barbara has started a new blog – Civil War Quilts – where she will be sharing stories and patterns from all the books and block-of the-month patterns she’s done. AND… each week (posted on Saturday) she’ll be posting a free pattern for an 8″ block and links to find out more. There will be 52 traditional blocks, adapted from antique blocks and newly designed. They will include reproductions and symbolic blocks, and will recall Union and the Confederate stories. And she suggests a layout for all these blocks:

Catch me as you can is the first block posted! Even if you don’t plan on sewing this quilt, I would recommend following this blog for its educational value. I personally find it fascinating!