I thought I would continue on the Kings Landing theme for one more post. Humour me, folks.... We were so fortunate at my Guild meeting on Tuesday evening to have Lois MacDonald from Kings Landing come to share with us some of the KL collection of quilts! These were original quilts which were all at least 100 years old, many of them older than that! All but one were in excellent shape. Lois is very knowledgeable about all things textile at KL - not just quilts but also hooked rugs, woven coverlets and of course all the period costumes worn by the staff.
We were all very interested to learn about the quilts she brought, where they had come from, how the collection is stored, etc. Kings Landing grew out of the Mactaquac Dam project in the 1960's. Many farms and properties along the St. John River above Mactaquac would be flooded when the dam was built, and many of the homes and artifacts now found at KL came from these homes and families along the river. The quilts were quite amazing, considering their age and the fact that most would have been hand-pieced.
The "postage stamp" quilt (above left) was a favourite and drew many "Ooohs" and "Ahhhs"... But each one was much admired and appreciated. We were so grateful to Lois for this wonderful presentation. I'm sure I won't be the only one making a special trip to the Landing this summer for another close look at some wonderful "vintage"' quilts... (FYI It is possible to make arrangements for a tour of the Collection Centre to see these quilts. All you have to do is call KL andask !)
Tonight I finished reading The Town That Drowned by Riel Nason. Riel grew up in Hawkshaw, not far from Kings Landing, and has written a fictional story set in the 60's at the time of the construction of the Mactaquac Dam. This story explores what local people would have gone through, finding out their lands and homes would soon be swallowed up by rising waters. Riel is a quilter and KVQG member... and a great writer! Edit: I've just been advised (thanks Sue!) that Riel's book has been nominated for the Canadian Library Association's 2012 Young Adult Book Award! Way to go Riel!! Best of Luck!!Tomorrow I hope to show you another TAST effort.. I'm "just a bit behind"...
Piece,
Linda
"History is who we are and why we are the way we are." ~ David McCullough
6 comments:
I have got to see the quilts in person! Thanks for the tip on how to do that. Wasn't Riel's book a great read! And did you see she has a quilt juried into the CQA for Halifax!!
Wow what a treat that must have been to have the quilts come visit your guild. It has been far too long since I have been to Kings Landing and your wonderful photography just makes me want to go for another visit! Love the sheep shot!
Hi Linda, Thanks for the shout out! I can't wait to go to Kings Landing this year and take the kids. At 7 and 4 I think they are old enough to appreciate it. I'm sure I'll hear about tired legs, but that is what the horse and wagons are for. Riel
Yes there is lots to see and do at Kings Landing- for quilters and kids and everyone. There is usually a quilt in a frame somewhere (often the Joslin farm). Of course there are quilts on the beds in every house to view and enjoy. As well, there are hooked mats, needlework samplers and lots of other goodies too... And don't be afraid to ask questions of the staff- they are very knowledgeable and are happy to answer questions. Please do plan a visit or two this summer. Wear comfortable shoes and ride the wagon in one direction, then it's not so much walking... And for anyone with young children try to catch the Magic Show- it's wonderful.
Riel did not mention that her book has been nominated for the Canadian Library Assoc. 2012 Young Adult Book Award...
Sue
I'm sorry I missed it. I am glad you took photos. I love the postage stamp quilt. I really want to make one. And I really like the half square triangle quilt. I want to make one of those too. I seem to like quilts without borders lately. I wonder if it's the old style..and borders are a recent thing.
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