Photos from the 1st Annual Quilt Study Day

The 1st Annual Quilt Study Day was a success! About 60 quilts were registered representing quilts made in or brought to Elkhart County from 1890 to 2009. The quilts were documented and photographed for a registry to be held at the museum for researchers. Each year the museum hopes to expand its registry so quilts and their stories can be preserved and enjoyed by future generations. Most participants stayed the entire afternoon to observe the incredible variety of examples brought for registration. If you enjoy quilts, especially old quilts, do not miss this exciting event in 2010!

Here are some of the highlights!


Yo-Yo, c. 1960s. Elkhart County Home resident Ruth Bussler made this yo-yo from scraps. Registered by Mary Jane Hiles, Elkhart.

Red-White-Blue Crystal Star Amish Quilt, c. 1947. Made by Susie Schrock Helmuth Schlabaugh for her husband Joseph Helmuth who enlisted in the army during WWII. The quilt is unique because patriotic themes are rare in Amish-made quilts. Registered by Carol Honderich.

Stars and Bars, c. 1910. Made by Sarah Margaret Keller who purchased instrument case lining from C.G. Conn, a brass instrument manufacturing company that was located in Elkhart. Registered by Gail Enas.