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The rectangular form is worked in forty-five squares of variously colored printed cotton in the Next Door Neighbor pattern, each square featuring a white conforming center with identifying name, place and date, the squares separated by latticed sashing, the whole with white muslin binding, fringed open-work edge on three sides and chevron quilting. Probably made by friends and relatives of Olive Farnsworth.
signature quilts
cotton (textile)
muslin
Needlework
Quilt
Quilt
Displayed in Cherished Possessions, 2003-2005: Joining neighbors for a day of quilting was a social highlight for many New England women, who came together not only to help finish a quilt but also to enjoy the companionship. Often, when work was done, men would be invited to join the women for an evening of courting.
So-called friendship quilts like this one came into vogue in the 1840s. This was a time of extensive migration in America, with families moving west or leaving their farms for mill towns and cities. These quilts were often given as remembrances to departing neighbors. This one was made for Olive Farnsworth. The signers were not only family members but apparently also men and women with whom Farnsworth may have worked in a nearby mill.
Unknown
92 x 88 (HxW) (inches)
Museum Purchase
2001.2
New Hampshire (United States)
Brookline (Hillsborough county, New Hampshire)
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