Quilts from the Civil War-Sisterhoods of Solidarity

The New York Historical Society has assembled quilts, fabrics, photos and artifacts from the Civil War.  The exhibit begins as you walk into the Musuem.  Look beneath your feet & discover relics that date back to the 17th C; pipes, whiskey bottle & ammunitions (cannon worm.)  This is a startling & poignant collection of quilts & clothing made by women from both Confederate & Union households. Women were united in their work effort to provide comfort, warmth & connection to their families.  There are legible messages written on the quilts to their loved ones.  The sewing groups provided a social network which united them in purpose & provided support.  The 1st quilt you encounter is monochromatic with candlewick needlework.  It is exquisite. The piece was made by a woman Thankful Williams.  Her bold "signature" is visible on her work from 1820.  The craftsmanship and detailing is remarkable; thankfully it has remained in pristine condition as are many of the quilts & garments on display.  There are harrowing remnants from our history of slavery.  Incased is the noose from John Brown's hanging.  It is a sobering relic of our nation's divisive & destructive history.  There are remnants of fabric used for slave's clothing, "badge of slavery,"  Flags from the Confederacy are startling and unfamiliar.  There is a heinous KKK hood.  It's cowardly, hateful intent is identifiable.  Still, the works of great beauty, skill and dedication from women are astounding and unifying.  Near the end of the exhibit, note the pictorial quilt.  One square depicts a black man telling a slave owner, "Master I am Free."  This exhibit is a must see.