American Discovery Trail

There is a nice article in the latest edition of Discover America the Newsletter of the American Trail Society. If you have never heard of these folks, go to http://www.discoverytrail.org/

You can learn more about ADT by visiting their website, or read the article about Barn Quilts on page 3 of their latest on-line newsletter ( click here )

I have been studying my statistics, and it is taking almost all of my "free" time. I am left with a bit of time for my son, and my wife... but little else. Here is some of what I have been wanting to post:

From the official guild to Howard County, Md: "Tucked between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County boasts a distinct and thriving collection of communities, old and new, stable and growing."

From explorehoward.com: Linda Brown (above), owner of Triadelphia View Farm, sitting, and her friend, Gayle Crouch, enjoyed their weekends this past summer painting this barn quilt that is more than 8-feet square and is a semi-original design. It is the first barn quilt in the county.




From sussexnaturally.blogspot.com:

The beautiful pattern (above), selected for the Sussex County Farmer's Market was skillfully hand painted by Lauren Brodhecker of Brodhecker Farm. In addition to the Barn Quilt pattern which adorns the SC Farmer's Market, Lauren has hand painted a second quilt pattern which will soon be displayed at the family's farm in Hampton Township. The following counties are now listed separately on the New Jersey Barn Quilt Web Site (http://www.njbarnquilts.com/): Middlesex, Sussex, and Warren.



North Carolina has another county affiliated with the Quilt Trails of Western North Carolina.

Share your news...

I have been spending much of my time dealing with family issues, but continue to search for Barn Quilt (Quilt Barn, Quilt Trail), news...

This coming Saturday (November 7), the Quilt Trails of Western North Carolina will sponser it's first Quilt Trail Road Rally. The object is to connect 15 Barn Quilts with the least mileage. Proceeds go to Habitat for Humanity.

Truman, Minnesota (Martin County), repotedly has a Quilt Trail, but I am not sure how many there are, or if a map is available.

The Wardsville (Ontario, Canada) Community Association has plans for a Quilt Trail, but there does not seem to be one yet.

Grand Traverse County, Mi

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Several months ago, I mentioned what was going on around Traverse City, Michigan. Read about their Quilt Trail (below). I am adding Grand Traverse County to the sidebar. Part of the county is also known as the Old Mission Peninsula. For much more information on all of these barns, refer to the book BARNS OF OLD MISSION PENINSULA AND THEIR STORIES, written by Evelyn Johnson.

You can get more information by visiting: http://www.barnsofoldmission.com/ or http://mibarn.net/Events/QuiltBarnsofOldMissionPeninsula.html

Mike Norton has written the following for the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau:

Surrounded almost entirely by the deep blue water of Grand Traverse Bay, the long narrow Old Mission Peninsula is best known for its stunning views, picturesque orchards and award-winning wines. But the Peninsula is also saturated with history. Home to the region’s first permanent settlement, its 18-mile length is dotted with picturesque farms, schoolhouses, homes and churches. And with the possible exception of its cozy two-story lighthouse, the most iconic structures on the Peninsula are its many barns, enduring reminders of rural culture in this rapidly gentrifying landscape of wineries, vacation homes and beaches. “All these people who came out to Old Mission came from somewhere else and made something out of nothing,” says

Traverse City resident Evelyn Johnson, a retired kindergarten teacher who became interested in barns when her children purchased an old barn on Old Mission in 2002. In 2006 she authored a book about the Peninsula’s 104 surviving barns that won a Michigan Historical Award.

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Johnson’s book has become a popular guide for the kind of barn enthusiasts who revel in architectural details and historical trivia. But even casual visitors to the Old Mission area can now visit some of the Peninsula’s most prominent barns — thanks to the addition of yet another popular rural symbol: the traditional quilt.

With help from barn owners and dozens of community volunteers, Johnson has created the “Quilt Barn Trail of Old Mission Peninsula” – a leisurely itinerary that leads visitors to 10 barns, each decorated with a painted quilt block chosen or designed by its owner. The designs are painted on 8×8-foot wooden frames with long-lasting outdoor paint and mounted in prominent spots on the barns.

It’s a diverse collection that includes everything from an 1870 pioneer barn on Old Mission Road decorated with a traditional “Bear Paw” pattern to a classic 1912 barn on Smokey Hollow Road whose customized quilt square proclaims the owners’ Finnish heritage, Lutheran faith and love for International Harvester tractors.

I do have roots in South Carolina, and now...

Oconee Heritage Quilt Trail

South Carolina

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Text below is from: http://www.oconeeheritagequilttrail.com/

The Blue Ridge Arts Council is taking the lead in bringing the National Quilt Trail to South Carolina. The Quilt Trail began in 2001 in Ohio when Donna Sue Groves installed a painted quilt design on her barn to honor her mother, a fifth generation Appalachian quilter. From that simple act, the project has spread to more than 2,000 colorfully painted quilt designs on barns and other structures in twenty-four states.

The popularity of the quilt square design trails has grown as communities see them as an artistic celebration of history and culture. Individual structure owners chose to honor their quilting ancestors and rural life. Ms. Groves wishes future quilt square design trails to honor females as she did her mother.

Here in Oconee County, a group of dedicated citizens is working to put South Carolina on the map by establishing the Oconee Heritage Quilt Trail. The first quilt in South Carolina, which has been sponsored by the Wynward Pointe Ladies Group, will be mounted on the Oconee Heritage Center in Walhalla, SC, in the Rocky Mountain Road pattern made in 1930 by Lena Mae Land Talley, of Mountain Rest. It will be recreated on an 8' x 8' weather resistant wooden panel mounted on the outside wall of the Oconee Heritage Center. Others are sponsoring quilts to be painted on other buildings in the county.

Quilt trails bring an economic benefit to communities by attracting tourists to the countryside and include historical sites along the route. Businesses that are part of the trail have experienced increased traffic and interest.

Ar, Randolph County

I have added Randolph County, Arkansas to the sidebar...

McDowell County, NC

Another North Carolina county (McDowell), has created (work in process), a Quilt Trail. Anyone interested in creating their own Quilt Trail might enjoy checking out their blog at: http://mcdowellquilttrail.org/ . They have a good start. I certainly hope that they have a warm place to paint this winter. I have added a link to their web-site on the Barn Quilt Memories side bar...

Also read: The McDowell News Published: August 31, 2009

Patty Rose Designs

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I love this

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Patty Rose Designs

Mosaic

From these beginnings...

This is a little different from the other Barn Quilts that I have seen. Made from broken pottery shards, the 3' x 3' design was layed out on a plywood and concrete board foundation, and then grouted. It now hangs over Patty's cutting garden. Visit Patty at:

http://www.pattyrosedesign.typepad.com/

Calhoun County, Illinois

Here is a picture that I had to share... A Log Cabin Quilt Block in Hardin, Illinois. The house and barn date back to the 1870s. There are apparently several Quilt Blocks on Barns in Calhoun County, but I have not been able to find a web presence except the following:



From the Catholic Times, the on-line newspaper of the Diocese of Springfield, reports:

The Third Annual Calhoun County Quilt and Church Tour will be Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the communities of Kampsville, Hardin and Brussels. Calhoun Partners Economic Development sponsors the tour, with proceeds going to Calhoun’s Barn Quilt Project.

Tour tickets are $8 if purchased by Oct. 19, $12 thereafter. Advance tickets may be purchased at the Bank of Kampsville in Brussels and Kampsville, at the Calhoun / Jersey Extension Office in Hardin, or at any of the church halls on the days of the tour. Included with a ticket purchase is a self-guided map to the 25-plus barn quilts located on historic barns and local businesses in Calhoun County.

Quilts will be on display at St. Anselm’s Hall in Kampsville, the First Presbyterian Church and Hall in Hardin and St. Matthew Lutheran Church and Hall in Brussels. The tour includes quilting demonstrations, quilting supplies and fabrics sale and a Calhoun photo gallery and note cards sale. A quilt appraiser will be there to do appraisals of quilts people bring in. Some quilts will be for sale at St. Anselm’s Hall in Kampsville, where the Calhoun Historical Society and the McCully Heritage project will have information booths.

Meservey, Iowa

According to Wikipedia: Meservey is a city in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. It is part of the Mason City Micropolitan Statistical Area. Meservey was founded in 1886, shortly after a railroad line was built connecting Mason City and Fort Dodge. It takes its name from the Meservey Brothers who were railroad employees at this time. The western portion of town was originally known as Kausville, and eventually merged into Meservey, and is still legally known as the "Kausville Addition". As of the census of 2000, there were 252 people living in Meservey.

According to the Belmond News: A barn quilt class will be held at the Reformed Church here (in Meservey), on October 20 and 26. Missy Huling of Garner will be the instructor. The 4x4 board, paint and instructions will be provided at a cost of $55. To register call Mary Schlichting at 358-6259.

Quilt Trail Sampler Quilt

From the Web Site of the Appalachian RC&D Council's Quilt Trail™ in Northeast Tennessee! Win a one of a kind Quilt Trail Sampler Quilt with replicas of each of the quilt squares on the Quilt Trail! This opportunity is offered in cooperation with the First Frontier Quilters. The drawing will take place on October 30th, 2009, on WJHL News Channel 11 Morning Edition with Josh Smith.

Go to: http://quilttrail.org/

Quilt Trail Raffle Tickets

6 Tickets for for $10.00
9 Tickets for for $15.00
12 Tickets for for $20.00
15 Tickets for for $25.00



Quilt Trail Poster

$8.00 tax included plus $5.00 shipping and handling for the first product, $1.00 for each item thereafter. 16” x 24” on 100# stock with a matte finish suitable for framing. Comes with a Key that names every pattern and tells farm name, address and GPS coordinates.
Shipping: $5



Quilt Trail Mouse Pad

$8.00 tax included plus $5.00 shipping and handling (for the first item, save and buy more - additional items ship at $1.00 each.

WOW... I have a lot to catch up on, and it will not happen in one day. My plate (life), seems to have very full lately, and it continues to offer me lots of challenges and opportunities. I am thankful for every moment that I have, often wishing that there was more of me to go around, yet being constantly reminded to live in the day. We should each appreciate what we have, and be thankful. We need to make the most of our opportunities, and share what we have with those less fortunate than ourselves. That's enough preaching about life & circumstances for now.

I dove into a personal Barn Quilt Project a little more than a month ago. I was not able to spend all of my time devoted to it, but I have done the following: painted eight 4' x 4' Quilt Blocks (shown below), immersed myself into, and completed a certification class on entrepreneurship, constructed the outline of my business plan, and put myself into a local outdoor art show. These are just steps in the journey, and I will certainly have more to share.

There are plenty of new Barn Quilt, Quilt Barn and Quilt Trail notices that I have received over the past month (and I will be sharing), but there is one in particular that I would like to make notice of. That is the inauguration of the American Quilt Barns web-site at http://www.americanquiltbarns.com/ . This is designed to be an interactive social networking site, hopefully tying together the multitude of quilt trails and fans across the country. Anyone can join, and there is no charge. Started by Donna Sue Groves and a group of friends, this site will bring a new focus and direction to what I like to call a real grass roots art movement. This is one that will continue to blossom.

... and thanks to all who support the site:

barnquilting.ning.com

Where have I been ?

( Barn Quilts are Art )

In the past month, I have had to face the hard reality of not being employed anymore. (Not having anything to do, sure does take up a lot of time.) The good folk down at the Employment Security Commission like to refer my condition as being a displaced worker. Displaced is right! I call myself a statistic. I can see the bottom of the financial well, and I am very close to having my well run dry. I will be getting a pittance of Unemployment Insurance soon, but it has not come through yet. I am really thankful for any and all help that I can get. Our government does have some outstanding programs for the displaced worker, and those that may be under-employed. Over the next few months I hope be taking a few certificate classes at the Community College, and even more immediately, there is a program that I have signed up for that is funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation (it's vision is to foster “a society of economically independent individuals who are engaged citizens, contributing to the improvement of their communities.”). The program is called FastTrack NewVenture. In a few short weeks, they can walk me through the process of starting a new business... so, let's guess what this country boy is about to do.

I am getting ready to start a new business! To be named (of course), Barn Quilt Memories. I have not gotten to class yet, and have not sold any product, but I will. This afternoon I went down to the local Art Museum and signed up to be a vendor at the First Folk Art Festival at the Lake. This is billed as: Outsider art, Outside the expected, Outside the city limits! Taking place on October 3rd (one day only), does not leave me with much time to come up with some Barn Quilts. All I can say right now is... stay tuned!

these pictures speak for themselves...

The Barn Quilt Homeschool Artists

on You Tube

( from Kankakee County, Illinois )

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[ click the pic. ]

So, I don't have all the answers...

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting educator, turned author and historian, Suzi Parron. Many of you have read her blog (americanquilttrail). Her name may become as ubiquitous as Donna Sue Groves when speaking of Quilt Barns, Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail. It is comforting to know that Suzi and Donna Sue have teamed up to create a book that will both describe the impetus of this arts movement, and focus on the stories that are the lives behind the quilt squares flowering across our hinterlands.

Today, Suzi took the time to introduce us to a wonderful pair of You Tube journalist. See what she says, and then go to: thehardestyear.com and A Patchwork of Hope (the story of Donna Sue Groves).

Suzi Parron is interested in capturing the stories... and the sense of community, family, respect and love that these images portray. She is also a pretty astute study of human nature. She asked me two questions that I have not fully been able to answer. What was my compelling interest ? and what may happen in the future months that could bring this diverse collection of farmers and quilters, artist and art lovers, chambers, committees and associations under some sort of unifying umbrella ?

The Shores of Lake Michigan

About 30 miles due East of Green Bay, Wisconsin, on the shore of Lake Michigan is Kewaunee. The Kewaunee Area Chamber of Commerce (http://www.kewaunee.org/), is hosting the web page for the Kewaunee Area Barn Quilts. Beautiful pictures, of beautiful Barns and Barn Quilts, I could not help but notice that there is snow in more than half of the pictures.

On the far side of Lake Michigan, you can find Traverse City, Michigan, on what is known as the Mission Peninsula. It is there that you will find a new Barn Quilt Trail. A few years ago, retired school teacher Evelyn Johnson wrote a book about the Barns Of Old Mission Peninsula And Their Stories, and she is now spearheading a Quilt Trail project on the Peninsula. There was a story in yesterday's Traverse City's Record-Eagle. (click here for story), and they have pictures too (click here for pictures)...

... also see: http://iamsamiam.wordpress.com/2009/07/17/quilt-barns/

Alleghany County, NC

Another North Carolina county has joined the Quilt Trail community. Alleghany County is celebrating it's 150 anniversary. It lies in the North-North-West of the Carolinas and shares a border with Virginia. Ashe County to the West, and Wilkes County to the South, have their own Barn Quilt projects. Due to the efforts of the Alleghany County Quilters Guild and its president, Delta Peterson, there are now over 35 Quilt Blocks hung around the county, and they were all painted this year. I spoke with Ms Peterson last week at the annual quilt show and she is very enthusiastic about what the Quilters Guild has accomplished. These are all 2' x 2' or 4' x 4' Quilt Blocks. I have not seen the entire county, but what I have seen is beautiful and calls me back to explore some more. There is a new brochure that shows the first 35 patterns. You can also write or call Bob Bamberg at the Allegany County Chamber of Commerce (http://www.sparta-nc.com/).

Alexander County, NC

Alexander County's Hiddenite Center announced several months ago that they were starting a Barn Quilt project. Last week I had an opportunity to stop by the old Lucas Mansion in Hiddenite, North Carolina, and I met with Allison Houchins. She is the part time Director of Education for the center, and a full time Barn Quilt supporter. Allison is directing much of the efforts to get the quilt blocks done. I was asking how much progress they had made, and found out that they had just hung the first seven quilt blocks, and that the webmaster was informed to add pictures and descriptions to the center's website (http://www.hiddenitecenter.com/)... and so it has been done.

The emphasis here is the actual historical quilts. These have been photographed, and images of the quilt, or a portion of the quilt is printed on two 4' x 8' panels that are hung on local barns. If you look closely at these images, the stitches and textures are evident, and the stories are being shared with the community. It's possible that this will lead to hand painted quilt blocks. For now these are real shared celebrations of the quilts that have been made and cherished by the families in Alexander County...

Quilted by Elsie Clark Linney around 1915

Quilted by Louisa Dacons Cass 1890 - 1900

Cass County, Nebraska

The First in Nebraska

Barn Quilt Project

Elmwood-Murdock Future Business Leaders of America wanted to “IMPACT” the community by Involving Members, Promoting Activities, and Creating Tourism. Adding painted quilt blocks to prominent barns seemed like a good idea because together they created a unique tourist attraction with long-term potential. In 2006, local quilt enthusiast, Mickie Clements, proposed the idea and served as the project adviser. Twelve 8’ x 8’ barn quilts were created by Elmwood-Murdock art students, while FBLA members developed publicity, solicited barns, and generated funds for the project. All members of the chapter are convinced this project will impact the community for years to come.

Putnam County, Tennessee

Welcome to the Upper Cumberland Quilt Trail

The Upper Cumberland Quilt Trail is part of the continuing commitment of the Upper Cumberland Quilt Festival to the preservation of this historical craft of traditional quilting.

We Have Many to Thank for Making this Possible…we say Thanks to:

The farm and barn owners for giving us permission to hang the painting on their properties. We are especially grateful to our Quilters and their families for allowing us to use their treasured quilts and patterns.

Our artists, Julie Styer and Sandra Darrow, of the Upper Cumberland Arts Alliance, who spent many hours designing and painting.

Ron Sweeney, for painting the Star of Bethlehem and hanging all of the paintings.

Bill Herren for painting our first barn on Dry Valley Road

The Algood School children and their teacher Wren Van Hooser, and Sandra Darrow & 8th grade students at Cornerstone Middle School in Baxter & Janis Nunnally.

Walworth County, Wi

Hosted by the University of Wisconsin Extension Service, with lots of local support, is the Barn Quilts of Walworth County. I reported in late 2008 that there were plans underway to start a Barn Quilt Trail in Walworth County. Now there is a web presence and it appears that 11 Quilt Blocks have already been hoisted on barns. I will add the UWES site on the sidebar, and there is also a brochure for those interested at:

http://walworth.uwex.edu/ag/documents/BarnQuiltBrochure.pdf

--- lost & found ---

I have discoverd the Kankakee Barn Quilts You Tube video does still exist at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6n_0SGT5LM

In touch...

It's hard to keep up with all of the activities in the world of Barn Quilts. The idiom is becoming only slightly more common place. While "BARN QUILT" is not instantly recognizable by everyone, I still predict reaching a tipping point where this art movement will become more accepted by the main stream art community. There is not a problem here. The arts movement that consists of painting quilt blocks on barns (and other structures) is truly grass roots. From the ground up. It was started in the country and not the fashion capitals that so often lead the masses. I find it comforting that the good folk that participate are doing so because of a joy and passion for the art, and a love of their community and their past.

--- NEWS ---

A Benefit for Athens AM Rotary & Cancer Research

The Athens AM Rotary Club’s annual Quilt Barn Ride and Poker Run will raise funds for the Club’s charity work and for Pelotonia, a grassroots bike tour based in Columbus, Ohio with one goal: to end cancer. The Quilt Barn Ride begins at 8 a.m., July 18th, 2009 and starts at the Athens County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, 667 East State St., Athens, Ohio. Poker Run prizes will be announced at 1:00 p.m.


A special route has been designed to provide cyclists with a scenic ride through Athens, County, with stops at five local Quilt Barns. The route will consist of a 30- mile loop, with an additional 20 miles of optional road available for the more experienced riders who want more of a challenge. The Athens County Quilt Barns include paintings of traditional quilt patterns on local barns. The Quilt Barns were created from an Appalachian Ohio art project, with funding from the Ohio Arts Council. This project planted the seeds for what has become a national art movement.

--- NEWS ---

Wall farm nominated for Small Farmer of Year
JIMMY SETTLE • The Leaf-Chronicle • July 11, 2009

Visit J&J Century Farm today and you'll be transported to an old-fashioned, diverse agricultural experience, whether you stick around for an hour or all day. You can see farm animals, buy farm-fresh produce, pumpkins and gourds, souvenirs, the work of local artisans, locally produced honey, select antiques, and for the holiday season, wreaths, ornaments and other items from Granny Wall's Country Store. This month, you can visit the blackberry patch to pick your own wild blackberries in season. Be sure to call the farm ahead for availability and times, and bring along a bucket.

J&J Century Farm is a member of Pick TN Products, the Appalachian Quilt Trail, Montgomery County Quilt Trail, Tennessee Agritourism Association, and Tennessee Christmas Tree Growers Association.

--- Must See ---

I have mentioned the You Tube video of the Barn Quilts of Kankakee County (it appears as if it is no longer available)... Now, thanks to Ken Kashian and the Illinois Farm Bureau, there is slide show of images that are great. Click on the linked message below:

Starting in the fall of 2008, barn quilts began to cover area barns and corncribs. By the end of this year, a total of 20 quilts will proudly hang. While there have been barn quilt projects in neighboring states, This is the first of its kind in Illinois. Photos courtesy of Clayton & Carol Splear Pratt. Additional Golden Anniversary Ring photos courtesy of Pat Alcorn

Full speed ahead...

The Warren County Farmers' Fair, running daily July 26 to Aug. 1 in Harmony Township, will showcase the very first Barn Quilt in Warren County, New Jersey.

(click here to read story above)

Expanding the Upper Cumberland Quilt Trail, which currently exists as an 11-mile tour around Algood, would benefit the region as a whole, said Kathy Daugherty, coordinator with the nonprofit Hull-York Lakeland Resource Conservation and Development Council in Cookeville (Tennessee). Hull-York will act as the agency seeking grants for the project, which Daugherty is dubbing an agritourism endeavor.

(click here to read story above)

Here is a picture of Heath Hoffer and Collen Konieczny in Bullskin Pa. There is a nice story in the July 4th Daily Courier. They have come up with an entirely new way to fashion and construct the Barn Quilt. You can go to pabarnquilts.com and see what's up. I think they have a pretty slick and attactive product.

(click here to read story above)

Updatin'

I am sure that I need several new posts here as I catch up with my own blog. To start with, there have been several Barn Quilt alerts sent to me that I would like to share.

I have not made it to the book store yet, but look for "Quilters World Magazine". There is a story titled: TAKE A TRIP On the Beautiful Barn-Quilt Trail.

And wonderful youtube video of the Barn Quilts of Kankakee County (Illinois) at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V20-FFvyNVA [no longer available]

As a part of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, is the Orleans County Country Barn Quilt Trail: A first-of-its-kind travel experience for New York State – a 22-mile loop tour off the Great Lakes Seaway Trail byway to see more than 40 quilt blocks painted on barns in the Town of Kendall. Travelers can follow a free audio tour accessible by cell phone or collect a map available at Seaway Trail Inc. member Partyka Farms Market at 1420 County Line Road, 3 miles south of the Seaway Trail.

Champaign County (Ohio) Barn Quilt Tour has a month-to month print-your-own calender of Barn Quilts. It's nice, especially if you want to start in July.

Heidi Kaisand of Hen and Chicks Quilt Studio has completed a Barn Quit with a friend, and she has pictures on her blog.

staying up...

I hope that everyone is following the travels of Suzi Parron on her blog: http://americanquilttrail.blogspot.com/. Her most recent trip to Iowa (and Wisconsin) has some great personal tales, and wonderful pictures of Barn Quilts.

The most recent Barn Quilt in Iowa is pictured below. Painted by a talented long arm quilter, I say job well done. She is looking for the name of the quilt block. See more pictures on her blog: http://myquilter.blogspot.com/2009/06/barn-quilt.html

Correction

Correction:

The "first" barn quilt that was done in Adams County, Ohio was actually the Ohio Star on the Lewis Mountain Herbs and Everlastings gift shop, designed by Mark Lewis and Bill Brown (see previous post). In 2001, Donna Sue Groves along with friends Pete Whan and Elaine Collins, had the idea to organize a grass roots committee and paint more Quilt Blocks.

From the Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau:

Adams County's "Clothesline of Quilts"
Donna Sue Groves had a dream to someday honor her mother with a large painting on their barn of her mother's passion, quilting. That one beautiful dream has now lead to more than the planned 21 quilt squares, throughout Adams County and beyond! Donna teamed up with the P.A.C.T. (Planning Adams County's Tomorrow) Organization & after applying& receiving a grant from the Ohio Arts Council, began the counties colorful display of historical quilt squares. The idea soon spread. The Adams County Chamber of Commerce made a contribution, along with several local businesses, and residence. Some of which, financed and designed their own square.

Correction:

If you are looking for Suzi Parron's blog, it is: http://americanquilttrail.blogspot.com/

Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail

Lewis Mountain and a big / little piece of history...

The first Barn Quilt that was painted (besides the one on Nina Maxine and Donna Sue Groves' tobacco barn), was on the gift shop at Lewis Mountain Herbs and Everlastings, Manchester, Ohio. This is a herb farm and nursery, and for over 20 years home to the Olde Thyme Herb Fair. On October 31, 2001 the Ohio Star Quilt Block was unveiled. Now the farm is for sale (see below).

Farm and Business for Sale
Lewis Mountain Herbs and Everlastings

For more information call Judy Lewis at 937-549-2484 or e-mail mtherbs@bright.net


Located in rural Southern Ohio two (2) miles from the Ohio River. Established business has been in operation for over thirty-three (33) years. Home of the Olde Thyme Herb Fair which will be celebrating its 21st year the second full weekend of October 2008. The Fair, which consists of displays and the sales of merchandise offered by over 240 artisans, continuous live entertainment, classes, workshops, luncheons and dinners. As one of the largest private fairs/festivals in the State, it attracts 20,000 to 30,000 visitors during the two (2) days.

Fresh cut flower production for commercial suppliers in Southwest Ohio. Production and sales of up to 600 herb varieties, scented geraniums and everlastings mostly to commercial customers in Ohio, Kentucky and WestVirginia and retail sales locally, throughout the United States and through the Company website (mtherbs.com)

Bed & Breakfast: Three (3) furnished sleeping rooms with individual bathrooms.Furnished Cottage with full bath and equipped kitchen (Currently rented for $600 / month). The “Mountainview Room” which is used for hosting meetings, parties, lunches, dinners and workshops with meals prepared on-site in the commercial kitchen.

Pet Boarding Kennels with capacity for 4 cats and 14 dogs, with wash station.

Full service Floral Shop. Retail Gift Shop

This 17 acre site also offers endless possibilities for further expansion. For example, it is ideally suited for a nursery/garden center. The retail shop can be expanded or modified as a Feed Store to service the local farming community.


Address: 2345 St Rt 247
Manchester, OH
Subdivision: Adams Co.
Price: $459,000

MLS ID #: 1169826
5 beds, 6 baths, 14.39 Acres

LEWIS MOUNTAIN HERBS FARM 5 BR BED & BREAKFAST 4 GREEN HOUSES FLORIST SHOP W/WALK-IN COOLER, COTTAGE 23X19 FOR RENTAL LG BARN W/STALL APPROX 50X70 HAS WORKSHOP. ADDL. 2 ACRES W/ 24X48 BARN AND DOG BOARDING KENNELS AVAILABLE FOR 119,000.00 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL KOOGLER/EYRE REALTORS AT 513-753-9660.

Here is a wonderful Barn Quilt (4 x 8 hanging on a fence), with a great story. I am not sure if you can see this from the road (Hwy 90 & Grey Gap Rd), but the Yellow Ribbon Trading Post would be worth a look-see if you are passin' thru Marrowbone, Ky.

My Quilt is named Trail of Tears...My family on my mothers side (Vera Franks-Ambroselli) is from Choctaw descent. Most of her trible had to leave Kentucky during the removals of the 1800's and were moved to Indian Reservations in Oklahoma. My Great Grandfather lived on the Indian Reservation in Oklahoma until age 3 then his family became workers for a share cropper and the children were Americanized by attending special schools for the Indians they had to wear uniforms and the boys had to cut there hair. The meaning of the colors in my quilt are: Blue-For the rivers, lakes and sky (Stands for sincerity and Happiness) Green-Represents the earth, the hills, trees and mountains (That provide food and substance. Red-Stands for War-(Long before the white man we lived upon the land for countless moons, in harmony with the Great Spirit, honoring all life around us) Black-stands for Power, White symbolizes the skies and spacious heavens. Our quilt is located at the Yellow Ribbon Trading Post.

Avery County Quilt Trail

A few days ago, I had a chance to sit down with LouAnn Morehouse at the Avery County Arts Council. LouAnn is the Executive Directer of the Arts Council, and they have a small gallery and office in Banner Elk, NC. This town is located in a county that can only be described as a mountain wonderland, and I have located most of the 40+ Barn Quilts that have popped up across the county over the past few years. Please take a moment to check out their Web Site at http://www.averycountyartscouncil.org/ .

There were several interesting subjects that came up during our conversation. Two in particular I want to discuss here and on http://barnquilting.ning.com/ , but I only want to hint at them now. One is the subject of maps, directions, brochures, and information on telling someone where to find barn quilts. The other subject is the cost for organizations or individuals to start and maintain a Quilt Trail.

Please give these subjects some thought in the next few days. I would love it if someone would open a discussion at http://barnquilting.ning.com/ . This is: A network for those involved in the creation, construction, support, inspiration for or enjoyment of the Barn Quilt Arts Movement. Everyone is welcome.

Until I return next week (I have a couple more graduations to attend), I want to leave you with pictures from The Avery County Arts Trail. Click the Pic. to make it bigger...

Circle of Courage

The Child Before Us

Painters welcome...

According to the Waverly Democrat (Waverly, Iowa): Ty Ruby of Greene is taking advantage of the Butler County Barn Quilt painting days to get a start on his 4-H exhibit for the upcoming fair. Ruby is making an 8-by-8 block for his grandparent Bob and LaDonna Wamsley’s barn. He is learning about using the right primer to paint his frame and plywood.

On Saturday, June 13, more quilt block painting will take place at the exhibit building on the fairgrounds in Allison. There are several frames already made and primed if you would like to adopt one for your farm. Painters are welcome to help out on Saturday at 9 a.m.

Call Monica Lursen at 885-6557 if you have any questions or would like a block.

National Civil War Quilt Trail decorates Dover

Thanks to our friend Suzi Parron, I was able to locate a picture from the Stewart County Civil War Quilt Trail. You can read a short article at the Stewart County Public Library and another on the Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation newsletter from July 2008


The centerpiece of the National Civil War Quilt Trail is “Letitia’s Quilt,” inspired by local Civil War heroine Letitia Smith Walter. It was designed by her great-granddaughter and local artist, Carolyn Walter Darke, third from left above. Also pictured are Betsy Tumelson, third from right, who assisted in the painting of the quilt, and employees from CEMC (Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation), who helped raise and attach the 16-foot-by-16-foot quilt to the side of the Good Samaritan Center, 303 Donelson Parkway, in downtown Dover (Tn). On the left are Stephen Fitzhugh and Clint Marshall, and on the right are Donnie Burkhart and Steve Fielder.

Another Quilt Trail

I don't know how long this has been an active quilt trail, and I will need to contact the Five Rivers Resource Conservation and Development organization to find out more, but I have added Houston County to the side bar. If I am missing any that you are aware of, please e-mail me at" barnquilter@gmail.com and I will update the list of Barn Quilt groups.


Celtic Quilt Trail
By: Debbie Schmidt & Sharon Knight

Houston County has now joined several counties in Tennessee with its own quilt trial. This one is like no other, however, in that it depicts Houston County's unique Celtic heritage. Each quilt square has a distinctive pattern with its own individual story.

Artist Debbie Schmidt, who organized the quilt project, and scores of volunteers worked feverishly during the past few weeks to get enough 8-foot by 8-foot wooden squares sold, painted and erected in time for the 2009 Irish Days celebration. She had set a goal of 12 and although only nine have been erected, two additional ones are waiting in the wings and another three have been ordered.

The quilt trail may be the brainchild of Schmidt but she is quick to divert credit away for herself. “It’s not just me (who has done this),” she said. “It’s a world of volunteers.” Meriwether Lewis workers, Danny Schmidt and Randy Baggett have supplied Schmidt with manpower and equipment to erect the squares in such a way that they are secure.

Schmidt also had volunteers who help draw the designs and volunteers – some of them the same – who helped paint the square. Each square includes the names of the people who worked on it in an inconspicuous place on the front and listed on the back. That way, each person who worked on it can feel a little ownership of the quilt squares.

“There are just too many volunteers to mention them individually,” she said, “and I don’t want to leave anyone out.”The project is promoted through the Five Rivers Resource Conservation and Development organization (http://fiveriversrcd.com).

It is design to bring tourism interest to the county as visitors follow the trail of quilt patterns through the county. Mapping of the Trail and guided tours are planned. We also have hopes of drawing some of these visitors to look at our area as a special place to live or retire.

The Quilt Trail project is multi county and has extended across Tennessee. Montgomery Co.(crazy quilts), Stewart County (civil war quilts) Humphrey’s County, Robertson as well as Houston County (Celtic Quilts) are all working on this project.

read more at: http://www.houstoncochamber.com

Bicentennial planned for 2010

From: the Wilmington News Journal
in Wilmington Ohio

First bicentennial barn quilt to go up this weekend

Dan Liggett - Editor

The first quilt of Clinton County’s barn quilt project is scheduled to go up on the horse barn at the Clinton County Fairgrounds this weekend, and the project committee is working to have more quilts completed and installed in the coming weeks. The barn quilt project is being done in conjunction with the Clinton County Bicentennial celebration, which will be observed in 2010.

So far the committee has received commitments to place a quilt on approximately 20 barns in various locations of Clinton County, Diane Murphy, committee co-chair, said. The quilt to be placed on the horse barn at the fairgrounds will be visible from West Main Street. The official unveiling of this barn quilt is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, the first day of the Clinton County Fair.

Murphy said the goal of the committee is to install at least one barn quilt in each township of Clinton County. Commitments have been received from barn owners in the majority of townships, but the committee is hopeful to reach agreement to display a quilt on at least one barn in each of Vernon, Adams, Washington, Marion and Jefferson townships.

“We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the positive response received so far,” Murphy said. The barn quilt project was initiated as a way to show all who travel around the county, including visitors and tourists, the pride that Clinton County has in its agricultural history, families and land. Other counties in Ohio and other states have organized successful barn quilt projects, stirring interest among tourists to travel to those counties to view the barn art on display.

The committee seeks a business or organization sponsor for each barn quilt to help defray the cost, and commitment from barn owners to display the barn quilt through 2011. The cost of participation in the barn quilt project is $200 from the sponsor and $200 from the barn owner.

The committee will paint the barn quilts on a regular schedule for three weeks starting Wednesday, June 10, at the Clinton County Youth Council, 302 W. Sugartree St. in Wilmington. The schedule is Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon and from 6 to 9 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Volunteers are needed to assist in painting the barn quilts. No artistic skills or experience is necessary to assist in this effort, as the work will involve applying paint inside lines of the already determined quilt design. Each volunteer may commit for one or more sessions. Or, a group of friends could commit to paint together for one or more sessions.

“We invite local residents to join in the fun of painting these quilt block designs that will be seen throughout the county and enjoyed by many for years to come,” Murphy said.

All designs will be painted on 4-foot-by-8-foot sheets of plywood.

I want to leave a quick note here... I am off to Greensboro to attend my neice's high school graduation, and will have more time when I return. For now:

Cresco Times-Plain Dealer

Cresci, Ia

By Sara Daehn
Tue Jun 02, 2009

The colorful quilt hanging on Denis D. Reicks’ barn in rural Cresco may not hold much meaning to a passerby, but to the Reicks family, it is more than just a pretty decoration. The quilt’s colors and design hold personal meaning for the longtime Howard County family, which includes Denis D. and the late Katy Reicks and their nine children. Pat Ahern, one of the Reicks’ nine children, made the quilt in May as a gift to her mother, Katy, who was battling cancer and had been told she did not have long to live.

“I worked on this morning, noon and night,” Ahern said. “I did it for mom. She had always wanted one.” The quilt includes nine medallions, one for each of the Reicks’ nine children in their birthstone color. The background is blue, the birthstone color of Ahern’s dad, who was born in Howard County and has lived on the farm for 51 years. The outline surrounding the barn quilt represents the ruby red of Ahern’s mom’s birthstone. “The background is my dad’s because he backed us all up and the outside is my mom’s because she held us together,” Ahern said.

The family hung the quilt on Mother’s Day, just two week’s before Katy passed away at her home on May 24. The idea for the quilt came to Ahern after she saw several barn quilts throughout the county. “I wanted ours to be one that meant something,” she said.

and then there is:

Adair County Barn Quilt Block Project Nears Completion

from The Adair Progress

By Paul B. Hayes on June 04,2009

A project that began last fall to enhance the beauty of the countryside and encourage visitors to travel different roads throughout the county by placing large "quilt block" patterns on barns is nearing completion.

Last year, the Columbia-Adair County Tourism Commission received a grant from the Southern and Eastern Kentucky Tourism Development Association for the quilt block project. The grant was supposed to pay for six blocks, but Denise Stewart, who coordinated the project for the tourism commission, was able to make an additional three quilt blocks, bringing the total to nine.

Three of the quilt blocks - which are actually eight foot by eight foot plywood squares painted with brightly colored replicas of popular quilt patterns - were put up last November. Then, on Tuesday, a crew from Taylor County RECC volunteered their time to put up five more on barns scattered around the county.

"We've got eight of the nine done now thanks to Taylor County RECC," Stewart noted. "The ninth block is painted, and we're just waiting for the decision to be made on where it will be placed."

The five "quilt blocks" placed Tuesday are:

•A Maple Leaf pattern on the black barn of Barbara and the late Minnick Grider on Highway East 80.

•A Windmill Star pattern on a red barn of James and Hilda Hatcher just off Highway East 80 on Otha Bryant Road.

•A Double Star pattern on a red barn at Jimmy Reliford Drilling Company on Highway 61 South.

•A Pinwheel Daisy pattern on a white barn of Gerald and Cynthia Coomer on Highway 55 South.

•A Crossroads pattern on a red barn of John and Jeana Pike on Highway 55 North just past Cane Valley.

The three barns on which quilt block patterns were placed last fall are: A Indian Arrowhead pattern on a barn owned by Joe Lynn Barbee on Campbellsville Road in the city limits; a Memory Block pattern on a barn owned by Kenneth Scott on Highway 80 West across from the Col. William Casey House; and a Columbia Star pattern on a barn owned by Gertrude Browning off Highway 61 South near the new parkway interchange which is visible from both the parkway and northbound travelers on KY 61.

According to Sue Stivers, Executive Director of the tourism commission, the three quilt block patterns put up last fall have attracted a lot of attention, and she expects to new ones to garner even more notice. "We've had a tremendous amount of people talk about the barns, both local people and visitors," she said. "With these new ones now up, we expect a lot more interest."

Stivers said the long-range goal of the project is to put the quilt blocks on barns on well-traveled roads throughout the region so that a "quilt trail" can be established."Visitors would then be able to drive a route through several counties to check out the quilts, and also see the other tourist attractions we have to offer," she noted. "The quilt trail has proved to be a popular attraction in other states, and its also being done in other parts of the state."

Photo: BARN ART.

Taylor County RECC employee Scot Cochran worked to properly place the two sides of the 8'x8' "quilt block" on Barbara Grider's barn on Highway 80 East Tuesday morning. Cochran and co-worker Tim Coffey put up five of the "quilt block" designs on barns around the county for the Columbia-Adair County Tourism Commission. (Photos by Paul B. Hayes)

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to heaven, we were all going direct the other way - in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.

Charles Dickens

Yesterday, I became a statistic. I joined the millions that have lost their job in the past year. The good news is I will finally be able to devote more of my time to tracking the elusive Barn Quilt and Barn Quilters. I say elusive because of my recent experience hunting for Barn Quilts in a foreign land (Tennessee & Kentucky). All kidding aside, I was more than a little shocked when I was let go from a firm where I had worked for more than 25 years. It will take me a few days to adjust to the changes in my life. I hope to be more prolific in my posts, and I will be both reaching out and projecting more of the joys discovered on this journey. I want to be able to share your stories here. For all of the effort that is put forth, I will not forget that the stories are for you, and about you.

Success is a journey, not a destination.

Barn Quilt News...

Over the past 10 days (or so), there have been a number of news stories or Internet posts that mention Barn Quilts.

• There is the Wall Street Journal story "Stops Along the Summer Quilt Trail" dated May 23, by Meg Cox, but this story is only partly devoted to Barn Quilts.

• Maybe even more note worthy is the Headlight-Herald story by Denise Porter from Tillamook County, Oregon: From farm to fabric: quilt trail celebrates heritage. This is the story of the first Quilt Block in phase one of the Tillamook County Quilt Trail Coalition, and it will hang on the Chamber of Commerce building.

• The Lake Area Quilters' Guild from Clear Lake, Iowa, will hold their June meeting on Thursday, June 4th, at 7:00 PM in the community room of the Clear Lake City Hall. Pam Hanson will present the June program on barn quilts. She will actually walk the group through making a barn quilt. I would guess that you should contact the Guild if you would like to attend as a guest. Their blog is: http://laqgnews.blogspot.com/ .
  

• Suzi Parron is writing a book on Barn Quilts due to be out early next year (I think). She now has her own blog at: http://americanquilttrail.blogspot.com/

• The story "Mason County Quilt Trail has something for everyone", in the Charleston Gazette is interesting, but I have not been able to find a web presence. This is West Virgina's first Quilt Trail, and the contact is listed as Mason County Tourism Center at 304-675-678

A great trip...

I have returned! It was just 10 days ago that my son received his learner's permit. One of the reasons for taking a road trip was to let him get some experience behind the wheel. There was a lot of driving to be done, and it was mainly confined to blue highways and back roads. There will be plenty of time to practice driving in the city later. We were actually only gone for five days, but it seemed much longer.

This trip that was not singularly dedicated to finding Barn Quilts, but it did make for some interesting decisions along the way. We skipped by many Barn Quilts, found (almost) all that we were looking for, discovered a few we didn't know about, and got pictures of most of the ones we saw. We met some interesting folks along the way, and I came back with a somewhat different perspective of what I call the Barn Quilt Art Movement.

I am uploading many of the pictures that I took this past week in my sister site, the social networking site http://barnquilting.ning.com Please feel free to comment (good or bad), or if you have questions... I will be identifying the names and locations of these Quilt Blocks as I go along, but there is not enough time right now. There were many images that I choose not to post because they were different shots of the same subject. I will likely slip a few into my blog in the next few weeks, along with pertinent comments.

I have subjects to discuss such as the availability of maps, retirement or refreshing existing Quilt Blocks and the many different reasons for the Barn Quilts in your community. Join in the discussions and ask your friends join in too. I have a few stories to share but the story is really about you, your neighbors and the friendly folks who enjoy sharing these gifts. Celibrate life!

ROAD TRIP

The stars have aligned themselves for me... calling for a road trip. Today, my son is taking his last high school exam of his freshman year, and we have decided to take a few days to just go... looking for Barn Quilts.

We are off to Tennessee, then Kentucky... maybe to Ohio. I don't think anyone noticed that there are a few dead links on my sidebar that are located in Tennessee. I may discover why. I will return early next week. If I am able to post anything from the road, I will.

Love your mother...

Here is a sweet story from Morgan County, Co...

Deb Horan was completely surprised when she received her barn quilt for Mother's Day. Her daughters had tricked her into picking her favorite patterns so they could supposedly make a quilt pillow for their grandmother for Christmas. Grandma was in on the deal too and had the arts council paint this quilt for her daughter. Deb said that now they need to paint their shed before they can put up their barn quilt. One thing always leads to another!The pattern is "Stars with Flair" and is a 2' quilt.

If you want to see the Quilt Block, go to: http://mcartscouncil.blogspot.com/2009/05/barn-quilt-for-mothers-day.html

makin' plans

I noticed that Dayton Ohio has a special 4th of July planned. They throw a big party in town every year and...

go to http://blog.cityfolk.org/
or http://www.cityfolk.org/

The material culture quilt exhibition, Threads of Evidence, is pleased to have Appalachian quilter Maxine Groves as a participating artist. Maxine is from Manchester in Adams County, the part of Appalachian Ohio that borders Kentucky in southeast Ohio. Maxine’s daughter, Donna Sue Groves, will accompany her mother and participate as a presenter, sharing her story of the Ohio Quilt Barn Trail, now the National Quilt Barn Trail, a project she long ago envisioned to honor her mother.

They also have some wonderful free music.

Barn Quilt News...

I often get notices of happenings from around the country, and it is always fun to see what is going on in the world of Barn Quilts. Here is a sample...


April 2009: Arts Council plans social to celebrate Avery Quilt Trail participants; Quilt Trail Social May 2 1- 3 pm

Avery Arts Council Board of Directors and the Quilt Trail Committee are shining the spotlight on Quilt Trail owners throughout Avery County. They are inviting all owners and their families to a party celebrating the ongoing success of the Avery Quilt Trail.

With the help of residents just like you it’s possible to take a journey of mountain heritage by driving through Western North Carolina’s Quilt Trail. Along the Avery County Quilt Trail you will spot the beautiful, intricate designs of quilt patterns displayed on 32 barns and buildings with more in production. Neighboring Mitchell and Yancey counties also boast active Quilt Trails. The history of these exceptional art pieces stems from Adams County, Ohio with a promise from daughter Donna Sue Groves to her mother Maxine that she would one day paint a quilt square on their old tobacco barn. The Quilt Trail project has since taken flight across the United States, acting as a catalyst in some regions for increased tourism and fostering community pride. Avery Arts Council members want to show their appreciation to families around the area who have helped to make this project successful.


The Avery Quilt Trail continues to grow. People are still coming forward to put the spectacular, personalized designs on their property. Maps are available for tours of the squares. The social will take place on May 2, 2009 between 1:00-3:00 pm at the Cheese House Art Gallery, 630 Shawneehaw Avenue, Banner Elk. Light refreshments will be served. So come on down! We’d love to hear stories about your personal Quilt Square, the people you’ve met and the stories they’ve shared.

and then there is...

Green Edge Gardens of Amesville, Ohio

Athens Hills CSA
Nestled in the hills of Athens County, lies a 120 acre farm - the home of Green Edge Organic Gardens & the Athens Hills CSA. CSA, or Community Supported Agriculture, is a way for you to have a direct relationship with the farmer who grows your food. It is a great way to support your local economy, the sustainability of our area, and for you to receive delicious, nutritious, organic vegetables at the height of their growing season.

(and they do have their own Barn Quilt)

from the Point Pleasant Register, by Hope Roush

New quilt square design unveiled

POINT PLEASANT, WV — Now that the weather is warmer, the area will begin to take on an even more colorful appearance with the addition of new squares along the Mason County Quilt Trail.

The newest quilt square, which features a belt buckle design, is the first square to go up this year and was built and painted by students at the Mason County Career Center.

According to Denny Bellamy, chairman of the Mason County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the students are making all the county’s quilt squares. He described this as a way for students to become involved in the community.

The Mason County Quilt Trail program unveiled its first official square last summer and now includes numerous pieces located throughout the county. Quilt squares can be seen at public facilities such as the tourism center and the West Virginia State Farm Museum. Quilt squares also are located on several private properties in the area.

The quilt trail eventually will be divided into four driving trails and one walking trail through downtown Point Pleasant. Each area will have a designated theme in order to weave a common bond through the trail. The project will showcase the cultural and historical significance of the county and highlight the beauty and scenery in the area.

Featured quilt square designs include the Douglas Star on Douglass’ Farm in Leon, which was set aside for all the ladies of West Virginia and Appalachia that helped the family farms exist and grow through time. Tim-Rock Dairy, located north of Point Pleasant on W.Va. 62, features a quilt square with the Milky Way design.

Additional designs include the tourism center’s pineapple quilt square, which means “welcome.” Quilt squares also are located at Chuck Lanier’s house and the Yaugers’ Farm, which can be seen along U.S. 35 in Southside.

+

And found in the "it never hurts to ask" department (from Agrinews.com):

Barn Quilts of Sioux County gets grants

ORANGE CITY, Iowa -- The Barn Quilts of Sioux County has received two grants to help with their work.

The Fund for Siouxland has provided a grant for the purchase of signboard for three barn quilts. Diamond Vogel Paint and Keep Iowa Beautiful awarded 30 gallons of Diamond Vogel primer and paint as part of the "Paint Iowa Beautiful'' program. The program provides free paint to a variety of public-service projects in the state.

The Sioux County Extension office has played a vital role with Barn Quilts by supporting the organization. Early donations by the Farm Bureau Federation and the Hawarden Area Arts Council helped purchase computer quilting software and materials for the first barn quilt.

One more for Miss Effie

A few weeks ago, I was introduced to Cathy Lafrenz, and I shared that here. Cathy and her husband Cliff have a pick-your-own flower farm in Scott County, Iowa. She has put together a fun blog called Miss Effie's Diary, and did I mention that she loves Barn Quilts. She has just posted pictures of her forth, called Dogtooth Violet, and she says that she may not be done yet. Stay tuned, or better yet... stop in at Miss Effie's Country Flowers and Garden Stuff