Tags
1850s-1870s quilts, Antique Quilts, Fabric Study, hand quilting, old sewing books, The Donnellys, vintage quilts
Four Poster Bed Quilt
Straight Furrow – Log Cabin Quilt
These two quilts came into my collection from ‘The Donnellys’.
They purchased the Four Poster Bed quilt in 1997 in Groton, Massachusetts, USA from The Quilt Loft. This was owned by Diane Reese who has a Master’s Degree in Antique American Textiles from Boston University.
The quilt is dated circa 1876, which is substantiated by the fabrics used as they are very distinctive. A lovely fine red and white stripe fabric was used for the sashing, borders and binding. The quilt is backed with a coffee coloured linen type fabric that was possibly a homespun fabric. It is beautifully pieced and features well executed hand quilting. The red and white stripe fabric sets off the nine patch blocks beautifully and lends the quilt a timeless quality.
Detail of the nine patch blocks and sashing
Fabric detail to study
There is no other information available regarding this quilt but Bernie and Eileen did see George Washington’s bed at Mt.Vernon in Virginia, it was a four poster and they were surprised that it was so short.
Quilt Collectors – Eileen and Bernie Donnelly
The Log Cabin quilt was passed on to me by Eileen and Bernie as they thought I might have the time and patience to repair this very old but still beautiful quilt. It contains a stunning collection of fabrics including many shirtings. It is very faded and has worn to shreds in some sections.
Log Cabin block detail
Log Cabin Construction Method
Primarily Patchwork published in 1975 includes a detailed construction method of foundation piecing log cabin quilts.
However, the worn areas allow for studying the method of construction. The strips have been foundation pieced onto squares of patterned and plain fabrics. The squares were then stitched together and backed with a plain homespun. There is minimal hand quilting, also with a linen or coarse cotton thread. The Donnelly’s believe this quilt to be circa 1850s to 1860s. The process of repairing this quilt is ongoing. I am re-stitching the strips back onto their foundation block and in some instances the fabrics have frayed away completely. I trim these off to reveal the foundation fabric underneath which is quite fascinating to discover. Although the Log Cabin quilt is very fragile now, its beauty will be enjoyed for another generation and provide a unique study of the old fabrics.
Still beautiful
The Plain Needlewoman 
Janette I love these quilts and the information you have provided.
I have taken a photo of them so I can study the fabrics.
I’m sure I have some in my reproduction collection.
Keep up the good work Sally.
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Hi Sally, Thank you for visiting my blog. I will bring the quilts to show you next time I visit. It is lovely to see the original fabrics. I am sure you will find some similar ones in your reproduction fabric collection. Happy hand quilting, Janette
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Hi Janette
Thank you for that, it really came up well the photographs are brilliant.
You displayed the quilts to their full advantage, and you are right about the Log Cabin, I thought it was foundation pieced.
It is so lovely to see them where they are so well loved and appreciated.
All our very best wishes
Eileen & Bernie.
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Beautiful quilts! That 9 patch is an attention getter! Love the fabrics in it.
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Hi Deb,
Thank you for letting me know you enjoyed seeing the two old quilts on my blog. Glad you like the fabrics! Kindest regards Janette.
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I love your blog Janette. It is full of lovely quilts and great information. Can’t wait for you next post.
Cheers
Joy
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Hi Joy,
Thank you for your words of encouragement. Kindly Janette
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