History Museum showcases quilts

Really, really old. And fragile. That’s also what makes this exhibit an interesting one — especially given the good shape that most are in.

“One of a Kind: Historic Quilts from The History Museum of Hood River County” is a colorful example of the handmade works of art that have been gifted to the museum’s collection. The quilts tell stories of community collaborations, individual expression and are keepsakes of events or people.

The first quilt you’ll see when entering the museum is a Whig Rose applique quilt crafted by Delilah Clark (1816-1905). It remained in the family for more than 120 years before Delilah’s great-granddaughter Hazel Loy Shumway donated it to the museum in 1979. There is speculation that the quilt may have been created for her son, Newton Clark, who rose from Private to Lieutenant fighting for the Union in the Civil War — the Whig Rose applique style was a popular symbol used to express political loyalties during that time. Look closely and you’ll see signatures on the squares, including Delilah’s.

Another quilt you’ll find (and my personal favorite for reasons I can’t really explain — I just like it) is a Woman’s Relief Corps quilt created by the Canby Women’s Relief Corps No. 16 circa 1915, which contains the signatures of several recognizable names in Hood River County history. Quilts such as this were often used as a way to raise money for specific causes (like temperance or woman’s suffrage) by selling the autographed or embroidered blocks. This quilt is a variation of the Courthouse Step style — a visual call to justice. (This one also has a QR code you can scan to learn more about Adelia Stranahan, Hood River’s first postmistress, whose signature is on the quilt.)

For something completely different, check out the Crazy Quilt created by Jennie McMullin (1872-1956), who opened the Mount Hood Tavern at the base of Cooper Spur Road. Though it looks like it was thrown together, these quilts are thoughtfully planned pieces of artwork that utilized colors and fabrics not traditionally used in quilting, like silk or velvet. (This quilt also has a QR code for those who want to read stories about the McMullins and their tavern.)

Though you  are asked not to touch the quilts, the exhibit does contain a special section that invites you to create your own quilt block using a variety of colorful fabrics. Stick to a pattern or make up your own. Maybe take a photo of your finished block with your phone so you can remember how to recreate it after you get home — because after seeing these quilts, you will be inspired to create one of your own.

The History Museum of Hood River County, 300 E. Port Marina Drive, Hood River, is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 and free for museum members, children under 10 and currently serving military personnel and their families. The exhibit closes Dec. 30.