I used to do a lot of Civil War Reenacting, about 15 to 20 years ago. At the time I was not into quilts, but I did make both my wife's and my own costumes. Since I have become involved in quilting, I have thought about the Civil War era of Quilting and what patterns and fabrics, would have been appropriate. The question is; Does anybody have a recommendation for a book or books that address this rather specialized area of interest. Any suggestions will be appreciated. I am aware of the fabric restrictions, as to color types for clothing, and the number of colors used on fabric in that era, and I have seen some fabric lines, in the quilt shops, that claim to be Civil War appropriate. Any Ideas?
The Dear Jane book has fairly good pictures of each of the blocks in the quilt, as well as the full quilt of course. There is some info in the book, and it makes good reading, even if you don't make the quilt. I enjoy studying the fabrics used and seeing the "imperfections" of the individual blocks. There are also several other books written about quilting during the War. Surprisingly, there were more types of fabrics available than we might think. There are a few books out dealing with fabrics and how to date them, "Clues in the Calico" is one. These books are great to learn more about colors, prints and such. The Civil War period is fascinating, and there really is quite a bit available. Many of the reproductions are just that, fabric designs taken from quilts/clothing of the era. Many lines are based on a particular quilt at a specific museum, and some of the proceeds from sales will go to that museum. There are a few people who have "contracts" with some of the museums to produce patterns for re-creating specific quilts too. Froncie Quinn of Hoopla Patterns is one.
I am fortunate to have a couple of quilts that are from that era. Not museum pieces, but family ones. One is a utility quilt, made by my great....great grandmother, when she was a young girl. It has been well used, and mended.It is probably a Kentucky quilt. When my mother-in-law died, a red and green applique quilt was found in her cedar chest. The family decided I would most appreciate it. I have had it appraised, and it is probably from around the War to just post War. And is probably a bridal quilt, since the quilting has a lot of hearts. This quilt is almost certainly from Georgia.
Have fun exploring the world of Civil War quilts.
Pati, > I used to do a lot of Civil War Reenacting, about 15 to 20 years ago.
The shop where I taught until recently specializes in Reproduction Fabrics, mainly 1840 to 1890. This was a golden era of quilting. The Industrial Revolution brought the price of cotton fabric within the reach of the average person. They could finally afford to purchase fabric especially for quilts. Often the blocks were scrap and the wide sashing was purchased especially for the quilt.
If you want true reproductions you will have to double check the colors against your reenacting days knowledge. Many of the fabric companies produce a fabric based on an authentic piece of cloth but they offer the print in several colorways, some of which are more geared to our modern taste than true 1800's colors. The safest way to create a true reproduction would be to choose a quilt housed in a museum and purchase fabrics as close to the colors as possible. Of course with time many of these quilts have changed color. Research is your best friend.
"My" store has a website if you would like to check them out
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There are several companies which specialize in reproduction patterns. There are also websites showing museum collections. Right now I can't think of any because my mind is not too clear this morning. Hopefully I will be able to list several sites in the next few days where you could look for Civil War quilting ideas.
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