Category: For the Troops

Stars in My Eyes, 2022

Stars in My Eyes, 2022

The Quilts of Valor organization’s mission is to “cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing” quilts donated by volunteers. This quilt was made by Mary Kerr, a noted quilt historian, for her husband, adding another layer of meaning to its making and sharing. Spouses of veterans make sacrifices to serve the country too.

Cotton, Designed and pieced by Mary Kerr, quilted by Lynn O’Neal. Presented to LTC (retired) Ralph Kerr on November 11, 2003. Lent by Mary Kerr

Civil War Bedspread, 1864

Civil War Bedspread, 1864

A silk version of this bedspread was displayed at Brooklyn’s Sanitary Fair benefitting Union hospitals in 1864. The eagle was painted by the maker’s son, a professional artist. It attracted much media attention and was later donated to President Lincoln. Its whereabouts are unknown, but two cotton versions remained in Margaret’s family, of which this is one.

Made by Margaret Dodge, Brooklyn, New York. Cotton and paint. Gift of Margaret S. Todd 88.23

Soldier’s Hospital Quilt, 1861-65

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Soldier’s Hospital Quilt, 1861-65

Engraving class students at the Cooper Union in New York City made this quilt under the direction of their teacher. The Sanitary Commission (the civilian agency supporting the Union sick and wounded rented space in the Cooper Union building. The quilt’s size, 54” by 88”, is close to the Commission’s requested size of 50” by 84”, suitable for hospital beds.

Made under direction of Gulielma Field. Lent and researched by Barbara Brackman