Laws Library and Art Center, May 25-28, 2023 -- Returning on May 24-26, 2024!
The Bishop Calico Quilters selected Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site as the venue for their annual Memorial weekend quilt show in 2023, and what a perfect opportunity it was to honor both the 100-year anniversary of Father Crowley’s church, which we now refer to as our Library, and the completion of our rehabilitation of the building’s exterior.
Few items of material culture symbolize frontier/pioneer life more than quilts. Quilts made in that era were usually made for practical purposes, but that doesn’t stop their makers from artistic and often political expression.
In an era when many women were not able to read and write or vote, beautiful geometric designs were often used to tell a story in symbol, or to symbolically express political views that might differ from those of family and community.
The Calico Quilters do an outstanding job of combining tradition and innovation. the exhibit of their work is truly a tribute to the Laws Library building's purpose, and their efforts are much admired by visitors to Laws over the Memorial Day weekend.
Visitors enjoy learning about the history of quilts and designing patterns of their own with help from the quilters. We are delighted to report that this vibrant, community engaged group of women will be returning next year during Memorial Day weekend to exhibit their work, share this aspect of pioneer history, and promote their local scholarship program.
Thank you, quilters!