Commemorative American Quilts

Just in time for America’s 2026 semiquincentennial, reveals the significance—especially for women—of commemorative quilt making through 250 years of US history. Just in time for America’s 2026 semiquincentennial, reveals the significance—especially for women—of commemorative quilt making through 250 years of US history. Quilts were not just lying on beds during America’s history; in fact, they were sewn specifically to celebrate all of the nation’s important birthdays, anniversaries, and celebrations. Quilt historian Sandra Sider’s book explores the history of commemorative quilt making from the 1876 US Centennial to today, showing how it has acted as a tool for preserving stories, bridging cultural divides, and celebrating important moments both local and national—an easily accessible “scrapbook” in cloth. Includes overviews of commemorative quilting as it fits in with many of US history’s key time points, 200 photographs showing the history of and striking variations within the quilting art form, and explanations of how quilt making intersects with sociopolitical eras, such as the civil rights movement and the women’s rights movement. Made by patriotic women early in our country’s history, by today’s most-cutting-edge quilters, and by many other Americans, these quilts help us reinterpret diverse elements of US society, including women’s roles, racial equity, civic pride, and more.