Betsey Telford-Goodwin's Rocky Mountain Quilts 130 York Street York, Maine 03909 207-363-6800

About American Antique Wool Quilts

Fine wools have been used for hundreds of years both as regulators of temperature and as marks of affluence.

Before and after the Revolutionary War, Americans created wool whole cloth quilts from linsey-woolsey fabric. 19th century wools were created from different weaves, textures, and composition of fibers. This variation in texture creates a wonderful dimensional effect when a wool antique quilt is hug as textile art. In addition to being terrific graphic wall art, wool antique quilts are also a perfect way to keep warm on a cold winter?s night in bed or in your favorite chair. Some of these antique wool quilts even have the added benefit of warm and cozy flannel backing!

American Antique Wool Quilts

Click on the pictures below to see more views of my Wool Antique Quilts. Shading is due to lighting, not representative of the quilt. Please call for the availability or any questions.

Woolen Barn Raising Log Cabin Quilt
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Q9295 Woolen Barn Raising Log Cabin Quilt
c.1890
64 x 64 inches
Maine
$1,600

The solid black woolen logs that create the Barn Raining Log Cabin design are so outstandingly graphic!

All "logs" are approximately 3/8" in width. The red center chimneys measure 1-3/4" square. While most of the fabrics are woolen there are a few scattered around linen and heavy cotton "logs". The edge is pillowcased using a tiny overcast stitch tightly holding the three layers together.

Hand quilting goes around the outside edge of each 6 inch block. Even though this quilt has a thick batting, the designer was able to execute hand quilting not usually seen on quilts the really can keep you warm. An added feature is the much earlier Scottish design wholecloth backing. This very expensive fabric tells us about the affluence of the family. Piecing, quilting and finishing are all executed by hand.

The size of 64" square has given us many options for the quilt's use. This size is perfect for graphic art, a cuddle quilt or a throw on one's bed. Either way, this unused and now organically washed quilt is ready to be sent, with free shipping, for your approval.





Quilt
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CONMM9 Amish Triple Corner Diamond in a Square Quilt
c.1915
77 x 77 inches
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
$12,500

A Triple Square Diamond in a Square! These are so rare and this one is in mint condition. We always have trouble getting Amish quilt colors exactly right...The colors in his quilt are: Deep red, purple, gray, hunter green, and chartreuse. One reason why I always send quilts on approval is due to colors. Different computers are set different ways resulting in colors that do not show up correctly. In the case of Amish quilts created from wool challis this is even more pronounced. Other quilts are correct in their colors on my end..however Amish wool challis colors are a problem on this end.

The outside purple strips measure 14" in width including the 1-1/4" hunter green separately applied binding. Large corner blocks measures apx. 12-3/4". The next strip is gray and measures 3-3/4" in width with the corner squares measuring 3-1/2". The large hunter green triangles measure 21" x 21" x 29". The inner most strips measure 3-3/8", while their corner blocks in chartreuse have sides measuring 3-1/8" . The large Center Square on point measures 22 inches and is in the same deep red as the outside corner blocks. The backing of this quilt is an earlier blue on gray wave pattern.

By this time piecing was usually executed with a treadle sewing machine. While at the same time Amish women accomplished the most exquisite quilting designs. Here we have an exquisite meandering wreath design in the outermost borders, a meandering grape vine with grapes on both gray borders, a wreath design in the center deep red square on point and a beautifully quilted 6 pointed star in the center. Even more quilting than described.

This rare, graphic quilt may be sent, with free shipping, for your approval.





Quilt
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CONMM8 Double Four Square Amish Bars Quilt
c.1915
78 x 80 inches
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
$10,500

It appears that this mint condition example of an antique Amish quilt was never used...or possibly only for Sunday Best, but not for use as an every night bed quilt. A double Four Corner Blocks Amish quilt is their premier symbol of their amazing history of quilt making. The Amish never used printed fabrics on the front of their quilts. The fabrics used were that of their clothing also always solid color fabrics. Using wonderful fabrics such as this expensive wool challis, to create artistic master pieces in cloth.

The bars measure 3-1//2" to 3-3/4" in width, the small joining blocks are 4" X 4" with 2 of the outside wide border measures 13" with the outer inch being the typical Lancaster Amish 20th century separately applied binding. The innermost border measures 4 inches joining the innermost joining squares. The opposite borders measure almost 14" in width with the outside the 1" binding. The large four squares sides measure 13-1/2 inches. The backing is a heavier cotton in a light green.

The outside border is filled with a beautiful quilted leaf design. The inner border is quilted in a design that is best described as a double line square on point filled with a floral pattern. The bars are quilted in a crosshatch 1" straight line design. Where the backing is a light fabric and the thread used for quilting is dark, one can easily see the exquisite quilting on the back in addition to seeing the exquisite quilting on the front.

This quilt can be sent, for your approval, with free shipping.





Quilt
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CONMM6 Six Pointed Star Tumbling Blocks Quilt
c.1885
72 x 84 inches
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
$3,400

An original textile art design created in a quilt made from wool challis. Premier quilters act as designers and mathematicians as well as doing expert needle work. This quilt is almost 150 years old yet looks modern in design. The unused condition only adds to the quality of the textile. Can you imagine crating this while using only candle light or that from kerosene lanterns? If this was an oil painting the cost would be at least in the many tens of thousands and many times would be the work of a man. Yes, woman's work is still undervalued today.

Completely hand pieced and hand quilted with a 1/4" hand finished binding turned from the back to the front. Each hexagon has 4" sides while the diamonds in the star have 2" sides. The quilting is mostly outline quilting with diagonal line quilting in the solid black hexagons. The backing is an unbelievably gorgeous paisley that I am not showing as I do not think the design has ever been reproduced.

So modern in visual appeal yet almost 150 years old and in perfect unused condition. The picture tells it all...

I am happy for the quilt to be sent, with free shipping, for your approval.





Quilt
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CONMM5 19th Century Barn Raising Log Cabin Quilt
c.1870 or earlier
82 x 82 inches
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
$5,400

Finding a 19th century Amish quilt is a real treasure. The Amish always used solid color fabrics..their clothing colors..to create their magnificent, distinctive design quilts. The backing of their quilts can be anything they liked, solid, print, plaid, etc.. The backing of this quilt predates the textile and is c.1860..an early wonderful brown small design. The Barn Raising design is one that the Amish are most known for. This example is created from wool Challis with an earlier medium brown small calico design.

This very early Amish quilt is all hand pieced and hand quilted. Twentieth Century Amish quilts are treadle machine pieced and hand quilted. It appears that this quilt was hardly used. There is slight wear on the 3/8" tape binding and some fade in one corner of the blue. Other than that the quilt is perfect and at least 170 years old!

The colors used are black, medium brown, tan and sea blue. There is a quadruple border consisting of 1-1/2" strips in each of the 4 colors. Width of the "logs" is 3/4". The tape binding is the medium color brown. The creativity of Amish quilts is very distinctive...bold, graphic and sophisticated and always only in solid color fabrics...fabrics that were the same as their clothing which varied with different Amish communities.

I am happy to send this quilt, on approval, with free shipping.





Quilt
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CONMM2 19th Century Old Order Amish Streak of Lightning Quilt
c.1885
65 x 65 inches
Big Valley, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania
$9,500

Finding an early Amish quilt is quite a rarity. This graphically wonderful and captivating Streak of Lightning Amish quilt is almost 150 years old. Made from wool challis fabrics, some of the finest fabrics available. We can see the color fabrics the Old Order Amish adults were using at that time: all dark or muted colors of black, burgundy, pumpkin color, royal purple and a brownish/orange shade wool challis. The backing is a very costly and earlier wool challis fabric. Amish were allowed to use printed fabrics on the back of their quilts, but NEVER on the front...Those fabrics must be solid..no prints as solid clothing fabrics were and are a symbol of the "Plain People".

This quilt is comprised of 36 9-inch blocks with 1/2" to 3/4" Logs, a 5-1/4" border made up of two strips. The inner burgundy strip measures 2-1/2" in width. The outer strip in black measures 2-3/4" in width. The outside edge is turned over from the front to the back, finishing this quilt. Many Nineteenth century black fabrics were fugitive. By this I mean that the color would fade to a lighter black. 150 years ago chances are that all blacks in this quilt were the same shade.

As with all Amish quilts created from this time onwards, the pieces are machine pieced with all quilting done by hand. Even in the 1880's, it appears that Amish women had treadle sewing machines. The outer border is quilted in a 1" crosshatch diagonal grid with perfectly executed even quilting stitches. The way this pattern was pieced is called Foundation piecing. The Logs are stitched to a backing using a quilting stitch. As a result most of the quilting in the blocks is not seen.

Please call for more information. This quilt is ready to be sent, with free shipping, for your approval.





Quilt
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Q9293 Wool Courthouse Steps Log Cabin with Piano Key Border Quilt
c.1890
78 x 80 inches
Maine
$1,800

There are many different Log Cabin Patterns. The Log Cabin pattern originally came to us from England. Creative quilters have developed many varieties of this pattern. Every conceivable fabric has been used, at one time or another, to create Log Cabin quilts. Sunshine and shadows is a much loved design. This wool Log Cabin has taken the design to another level by adding the Piano Key Border using the fabrics used in the main body of the quilt.

The fabrics used here are mostly woolen and are comprised of plain weave, plaids and checks. All strips are 1" in width with various lengths including the 4" bars on two sides with 5" bars on opposite sides. The backing is an amazingly graphic earlier design. There are 36 11" blocks with a center chimney measuring 1" square. The visual impact of the coordination of light and dark fabrics is one of graphic sophistication as well, to me, as a feeling of emotional comfort.

A stunning textile art for your wall or to be used as a couch throw or a full size bed quilt.





Q8317 Quilt
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Q8317 Miniature Grandmother's Fans Quilt
c.1890
76 x 76 inches
Pennsylvania
$1,900

This miniature Fan design quilt is graphically wonderful as well as a perfect cuddle quilt. A woolen quilt with a homespun off white woolen blanket backing lends itself to cold days..OR...a wonderful piece of textile art for your wall.

Comprised of 144.... 6-1/4" blocks in the Fan design. Fan designs are so Victorian as is all the beautiful embellishment around each and every piece. The mark of excellence for a Victorian embellished quilt is 100 different stitches. This quilt passes that mark! The embellishment was executed with fine wool yarns.

The pieces making up the fans measure 1/2" by 2-3/4" by 1". There is a black twill tape binding with 1/4" showing in front. The fabrics are just beautiful and of fine quality. The quilt is actually 4 quilts measuring apx. 38" X 38" with each 6-1/4" block being a complete miniature Fan design repeated 144 times.

In unused condition and ready to be sent, with free shipping, for your approval.





Q9289 Quilt
Q9289 Log Cabin Courthouse Steps Quilt
c.1860
71 x 79 inches
New Hampshire
SOLD

Please understand that I am offering for sale a quilt that is not perfect. I purchased this quilt to restore and decided to sell it as is instead.

This Civil War era Log Cabin Courthouse Steps comprises almost 2,000 pieces of fabrics that date from 1825 to 1860. There is a huge range of designs and patterns in wool challies and merino wools. These were very expensive fabrics as they still are today. The maker of this quilt would have been a member of an affluent family who would be able to purchase these fabrics. Fabrics used here would have been from women's clothing and possibly from men's attire. Challie fabrics are woven from wool and silk. The icecream border sends this quilt to a higher category. The array of fabric design and patterns makes this a fabric junkie's dream! Yes..I am one of those junkies. There is no reason why this quilt cannot be restored or enjoyed as a piece of art (which it is) hung on your wall where these fabrics, that could be restored, would hardly be noticed.

I am happy to further discuss this magnificent quilt with you and, as always, send it on approval.





Q9287 Quilt
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Q9287 Wool and Wool Challis Victorian Crazy Quilt
c.1885
74 x 74 inches
Maine
$2,200

Muted colors I find very soothing. We have a Victorian Crazy quilt that was created from all muted colors: burgundies, blues, greens both pine and moss, blacks, rusts, bronze, brick color and bordered with a muted woven wool challie. Some blacks and browns are silk velvet. Created in the earlier 9 block formation with exceptionally exquisite and complicated embroidery around each piece and the entire circumference of the muted burgundy border.

Each block measures 22" X 22", the border is 3-3/4" in width which includes a 1/2" separately applied binding in taupe. The backing is a brown plaid cotton flannel just perfect to cuddle under!

A perfect quilt for your bed, comfortable chair or couch ...it is meant to be used and cherished! A truly fabulous quilt!

Please ask for this quilt to be sent, with free shipping, for your final approval. Please feel free to ask for more information.





Q9285 Quilt
Q9285 Wool Challis "Bricks" Quilt
c.1840
68 x 88 inches
New England
$1,900

Wool Challie is a combination of fine wool threads woven with silk thread creating a fabric for the affluent family. This stunning quilt would make a dramatic piece of art for homes from the Colonial era to the most modern of today's homes!

Comprised of blocks measuring 5" X 12" arranged in a brick formation. Almost every color has the same woven pattern. Could this be an exception to what I previously stated that these were purchased fabrics? Is it possible that a woman working in a custom shop could have brought home remnants and created this piece of art? All work was executed by hand. The batting inside is wool, creating the question could this quilt be from Vermont? The colors seen here are widely used colors today. The fact that there are no distinct patterns of other colors, this quilt would be easy to fit many of today's decors.

For some reason there are colors that do not photograph closeup..which is why you only see a distance picture. Wool challie fabrics are to be respected..therefore I recommend this quilt as wall art or on a bed that is hardly used.

Please ask for more information. I am happy to send, with free shipping, for your final approval.





An Unusual Geometric Abstract Design Quilt
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CONLL5 An Unusual Geometric Abstract Design Quilt
c.1885
30 x 37 inches
Pennsylvania
$850

This is an unusual little wool quilt with unusual colors.. A combination of a variation of Diamond in a square and a Pinwheel. We have a very deep fuchsia, a deep teal and a rich golden rust combining to create an unusual piece of art. The backing is the same rich golden rust wool and a grassy green cotton.

The squares have sides measuring 3-1/2", the diamonds are 2-3/4" wide and 6-3/4" long, the triangles are 3" at base with 4" sides.

All pieces are outline quilted by hand, while the piecing is done with a treadle machine.

A small size makes this quilt perfect to fit into a hard to decorate space or as graphic table art.

I am happy to give more information and send with free shipping for your approval.



Q8918 Original Whimsical Center Medallion with Nine Patch Quilt
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Q8918 Original Whimsical Center Medallion with Nine Patch Quilt
c.1890
70 x 78 inches
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
$3,600

A wonderful piece of art which has been hanging in the front hall of my home for a few years. Now this dramatic quilt is ready to go on to another home.

This original whimsical Center Medallion quilt was created from both wool challis and fine woolen fabrics. The designer of this quilt combined a simple Nine Patch pattern, alternating with plain blocks, and an original whimsical Center Medallion applique pattern to create a stunning piece of art.

The Center Medallion measures 39" X 39". This section consists of the inner applique area measuring 23" X 23", the next row emulating an Amish design measures in width 4" with the final outside row of triangles measuring 3-1/2 ". The triangles measure 8" x 5-1/2" x 5-1/2". The nine patch blocks measure 7-3/4" square with the inner square measuring approximately 2-5/8". The separately applied binding in black wool measures 3/8".

All piecing is done by hand with the hand quilting executed in an arc design whose rows are approximately 1" apart. The backing is a stunningly sophisticated large scale floral vine and bird print.





B33 Summer/Winter Coverlet
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B33 Summer/Winter Coverlet
c.mid-1800s
80 x 87 inches
Massachusetts
$1,200

Summer winter coverlets were prevalent during the 19th century. However, there are many that have not remained in good condition, understandably, because of their use. This summer winter coverlet is large enough to fit a queen sized bed, measuring 80" X 87". Obviously this one was stored away for many years, as it shows only light use.

This coverlet is called a summer winter coverlet because the majority of one side is indigo, other ecru. Therefore one side for the fall and winter...one side for the spring and light use for the summer.

The coverlet was woven on a 40 inch loom. We have a coverlet with two full panels creating a coverlet 80" wide and 87" long. The bottom has 4" of hand made fringe which has also survived in wonderful condition. The coverlet was woven from linen and wool, possibly homespun. The linen is true color, the wool is indigo dyed.

In those days we obviously had no central heating, and bed linens of any kind were the second most important item in a person's estate (after land). Many of these coverlets were woven by itinerant weavers who traveled from home to home. Others may have been created by servants. In New England, the servants of larger homes lived on the third floor, which would have also housed the looms. There are hundreds of different patterns of coverlets. The closest pattern we can find to this coverlet is called Catalpa Flowers.

Please email or call for us to send it, with free shipping, for your viewing and approval.



Q9262 Woolen Diamond In A Square with Folk Art Applique
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Q9262 Woolen Diamond In A Square with Folk Art Applique
c.1895
62 x 72 inches
Western Masschusetts
$3,600

Everyone has favorites..This is one of mine! The quilt design is a Diamond in a Square, created from lush woolen homespun as well as purchased woolen fabrics. Some of these fabrics are from the 1860's era. All fabrics colors are rich in tone. Sending this quilt to an entire higher level is the center medallion miniature appliques.

The backing is a gray cotton flannel. The binding is a fine gray wool. Each square measures 7-1/2" with the diamonds having sides that measure 5". We have early vegetable dyed black woolens as well as home dyed dark Khaki color woolens. The diamonds are an array of warm tone colors. Centers of each block have perfectly hand appliqued six leaf flowers with red centers. The flowers are around 2-1/8" in diameter with the red center being 3/8". The binding only measures 1/4" and is separately applied and hand stitched closed. Cross hatch quilting in a 2-1/2" grid ,executed in black thread, covers the entire quilt.

The quilt appears not to have been used and is now waiting for its new owner. A perfect size for a wonderful piece of quilted wall art. Please ask to see this quilt in your home. Our shipping is free of charge in the continental US. Out of this country there will be an extra fee.





UF50 19th Century Paisley Shawl
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UF50 19th Century Paisley Shawl
c.1800s
62 x 62 inches
New England
$475

This absolutely gorgeous 19th century printed paisley shawl would have been worn elegantly by a fashionable lady to keep warm during the spring or fall.

Challies, such as the one you see here, are woven from two threads; one thread of a fine wool and the other a silk thread.

Coats were not the norm during many parts of the 19th century and earlier; instead wool shawls would have been wrapped over the shoulders and around and around the body to keep warm. This is a lighter challie and therefore not appropriate for the coldest winter months. Today we mostly use these shawls for other purposes. A gorgeous tablecloth, an exquisite textile to frame to adorn a wall in your home, or this lovely piece may be used as a shawl worn on a special evening out.

Happy to send for your approval with free shipping.





CONJM27 Original Folk Art Quilt
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CONJM27 Original Folk Art Quilt
Pre 1860
71 x 71 inches
Virginia
$3,200

I am so excited when finding a quilt design that I have never seen before..Well, here is a wonderful early folksy southern quilt. The fabrics contradict themselves...we have very expensive wool challies combined with home dyed homespun fabrics. A puzzle...Was this quilt made by a servant of a wealthy family using their fabrics along with the fabrics of the designer?... or a less affluent family that was able to procure remnants of exquisite fabrics?... Or still the possibility of an afluent woman who thought outside the box of convention and may have put away this quilt because it was so far "out of what was the expected" for a lady of position.

How has this Virginia quilt survived all these years including through the 1860's turmoil of our country?

The blocks now measure 11" square ...When originally created and before quilting, the blocks would have been slightly larger. The joining sashing is 2" wide, the strips outlining the squares on point measure 7/8" in width and the squares on point are 3". A wide 1" applied binding frames the quilt. The linen backing fabric is a home dyed oak color. Diagonal quilting covers the entire quilt.

A true fresh, out of a private collection, artistic masterpiece which will enhance the beauty and originality of your home.



CONJM28 Mennonite Green Optical Illusion Irish Chain Quilt
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CONJM28 Mennonite Green Optical Illusion Irish Chain Quilt
c.1890
71 x 71 inches
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
$2,900

To me the shades of green used in the creation of this stunning quilt call out to Irish heritage. Even the wonderful 4" border is in a comforting and unusual Irish plaid. Different quilts emulate different feelings....I feel this specific quilt emulate feelings of comfort, security and warmth....In addition to being stunningly graphic.

Each of the blocks measure 12-1/2" square and are comprised of smaller squares measuring 2". There are joining four square blocks design which completes the creation of the Irish Chain pattern. All blocks are joined with 4" forest green borders that are quilted in a diagonal crosshatch design. The blocks are quilted in a diagonal quilting design which continues through the 4" plaid border. There is a 3/8" separately applied binding in the same Kelly green challie fabric as used in the 2" squares. The wholecloth backing is a very unusual black cotton fabric with off white stripes. All front design fabrics are wools and wool challies. Stitching was completely executed by hand.

This quilt appears never to have been used to the extent that there are a few basting stitches left behind next to the binding. I am happy to send this wonderful mint condition quilt for your at home approval...with free shipping as always for approvals.



conch1a Quilt
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CONCH1A Rose Pink Overshot Coverlet
c.4th quarter 19th century
64 x 88 inches
New York
$900

Not so many years ago there was a wonderful textile museum in Lowell Massachusetts that unfortunately has closed due to lack of funding. It was at this museum that I was able to see a loom large enough to create a coverlet of this width.
This seamless coverlet measures 64" in width. The rare rose/pink coverlet appears to be almost unused and now organically hand washed by us.
Completely created from wool, this cover would provide amazing warmth in winter or any other time of the year. The pattern is similar to indigo and white coverlets; however, I have never seen an antique coverlet in this color. The border is absolutely wonderful, and also different from any I've ever seen.
The family's home was Manhattan (name provided upon sale), and as an affluent 19th century family, chances are this is a commodity they would have purchased from a fashionable store in that city.
We are happy to send this coverlet, without shipping charge, for your in-home approval.



CONJE11 Homespun Linsey Woolsey
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CONJE11 Homespun Linsey Woolsey
c.1780-1820
63 x 87 inches
North Carolina
$3,500

An antique in America needs to be 100 years old or older. Here we have a historical artifact that is between 200 and 240 years old and still to be used today! When this quilt was created both the wool and the linen were most likely created where the family resided.

The entire process could easily take two years to complete. After the fibers were hand carded or homespun respectively, they were then home dyed, most likely in a cast iron caldron. In the case of this "Linsey" we have on one side a Cochineal dyed fiber and on the other side a Black Walnut dyed fiber.

After the arduous process of creating yardage of each fiber the fabrics were layered over a home carded heavy cotton batting. The quilting stitches were then executed using a herringbone pattern design. Both of these natural dyes are indigenous to the American South. The combination of both the visual and emotional effects of this amazing quilt are from amazement to feelings of warmth and security.

Organically hand washed and in original condition, this fantastic find is ready to be sent for your at home approval.





Q8505 Straight Furrows Log Cabin Quilt
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Q8505 Straight Furrows Log Cabin Quilt
c.1855
78 x 80 inches
Pennsylvania
Call for price

This circa 1875 wool challis Straight Furrows Log cabin quilt with a bars border is absolutely stunning. The generous size, 78 x 80, would make a perfect fit for a queen size bed or an amazing piece of art for a great room. English women were the originators of this early Log Cabin pattern. This quilt pattern did not origionate in America as many of the other Log Cabin patterns did.
The backing of this quilt is a gorgeous brown plaid ... there is a half inch applied binding of the same fabric as the plaid in the piano key border. This quilt does have old moth holes. When it's hung or on a bed, you really don't notice them. Because of this fact, I am drastically reducing the price of the quilt, which was originally $3,800, to $2,200. The fabrics comprising the quilt are approximately 95% wool challis and 5% fine wools. I see some fabrics as early as the 1840s. There are some Scottish plaids on here, some lavenders, some browns. It would go with almost any color you can name. On a bed the center part would cover the top of a queen sized bed ... the piano keys border would go over the side. ...captivatingly beautiful...graphically wonderful ...
Happy to send for your in home approval.



B30 All Wool Stadium Blanket
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B30 All Wool Stadium Blanket
c.1950s
60 x 72 inches
New England
$350

What fun to have an original 1950s woolen stadium blanket for use in your family room in front of the big screen! You can watch your favorite football and pretend you are back in the 1950s. In red white and blue with a splash of dark green, this wonderful really really warm blanket appears to have never been used. I do find a very, very few original moth holes...the moths are long gone!
We are happy to send this sentimental blanket to you on approval.



Q9067 Wool Log Cabin Barn Raising
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Q9067 Wool Log Cabin Barn Raising
c. 1885
73 x 75 inches
Buncombe County, NC
$4,400

WOW! This quilt is so graphically exquisite...classy, sophisticated and just captivating.....Yes, I am totally enthralled with his quilt. It is so difficult to find a quilt with gray and black as prominent colors. In addition this quilt has over a dozen prominent gray silk velvet chimneys....again something I have never seen in these past 35 years.

Constructed with 3/4" logs creating an 8" block with 2-1/2"chimneys. There is a 4" border constructed from four 1" strips...alternating a rich brown with a gorgeous stripe on the diagonal -- a border I have never seen before. The outside 1" brown in the border is turned over front to back and hand closed as a binding. All work appears to have been done by hand. The backing is a beautiful paisley. The fabrics are wool, wool challis and silk velvet.

The pattern: Barn Raising Log Cabin, is well known. However, this quilter appears to have been a graphic artist even though she would not have had any formal schooling in this subject as would have not been realized by women of that era.

What a fabulous piece of art for one special wall. Ready to be sent with free shipping for your approval.





Q8999 Victorian Embellished Fans Quilt
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Q8999 Victorian Embellished Fans
c.1890
67 x 79 inches
Pennsylvania
$1,500

A wonderfully executed Victorian Fan quilt in complete original condition. Created from 56 9" blocks and a 3-1/2" border...a perfect size for a couch or bed throw, a double bed or art for your wall.
Used in the creation of this quilt is a large variety of wool and wool challis from the C.1870's to the C 1890's. Standing this quilt apart from a simple fan design is the use of the same beautifully executed embroidery stitch, as a crowning element, on every block. The variety of muted colors seen here allow for the accent use in numerous decors.
The 3-1/2" rust/orange flannel border is a continuation of the flannel backing and results in a very cuddly quilt to wrap onesself up in.
Ready to be sent, at no charge, for your in-home approval.





BTG63 H-Block Log Cabin Fragment
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BTG63 H-Block Log Cabin Fragment
c.1845
58 x 61 inches
Maine
$2,300

This wonderful H-Block Log Cabin quilt has been created from very, very fine wool challis, even having a wool challis backing. This quilt fragment is a large size. Where this quilt has been rebound with origional, same mid 19th century wool schallis fabric, one would assume the quilt to be of origional size. There was one end of the quilt that was not good so we removed that end and then rebound the quilt. Now that this quilt is not an origional size it becomes a fragment. This quilt appears to be in perfect condition.
The quilt was executed using( approximately 7-1/2 inch blocks. Naturally, at this age, everything was hand pieced. The fabrics were very, very expensive fabrics. The blue was a very 1840s blue. It's a deep rich cobalt blue, and the green calico is just absolutely gorgeous.
This quilt has been in my collection and is now ready to go up for sale.
Ready to be sent for your in-home approval.



Q9013 Amish Concentric Squares Folk Art Quilt, Log Cabin Variation
Please view the detail photos (click images above) for closeup views.
Q9013 Amish Concentric Squares Folk Art Quilt, Log Cabin Variation
c.1865
48 x 74 inches
Big Valley, Pennsylvania
$2,700

A quilt very possibly created during the Civil War era.
This is a very rare and unusual Amish piece that is comprised of early wools and wool challis fabrics, some of which appear to be home woven. The backing fabric of this quilt is a grayish tweedy flannel, an early flannel. The squares created here, using a variation of the Log Cabin pattern, measure 11-1/2 inches. Each log measures approximately 1 inch in width. Yes, this a Log Cabin but an oxymoron because it's so very folksy and it's such an early Amish piece.
This quilt is not only a rare piece but would create an artistically amazing wall hanging. There's a lot of other information that I'd like to share. Please call or email.



Q9232 Log Cabin Straight Furrows Eastern Mennonite Quilt
Please view the detail photos (click images above) for closeup views.
Q9232 Log Cabin Straight Furrows Eastern Mennonite Quilt
c.1875
60 x 68 inches
New England
$2,500

This Log Cabin Quilt has one of the smallest chimneys I have ever seen, measuring less than 5/8 inch square. The logs on this quilt measure from 1/2 inch in width up to 3/4 inch in width. There is a brown 3 inch border of which 1/4 inch is a hand applied wool challis binding. The quilt is completely comprised of wools and wool challis. It appears never to have been used. It has a yummy warm brown wool backing with a few moth holes in the backing. Some of the fabric on the back appears to have been home dyed.
It is definitely a Mennonite quilt. I know this because the quilt has a strip pieced backing. Mennonites strip pieced their backings as a symbol of their work. It wasn't because they lacked the fabric and had to piece it, it was a symbol of their creativity. Graphically wonderful, the straight furrows cabin is the original log cabin pattern that came to us from England.
These blocks measure roughly 7 inches square. I see fabrics on here back to about 1840, 1850. There is one fabric pattern here that I have never seen before. It is graphically wonderful. This quilt can be used either for your bed, or as a stunning wall hanging. The colors are magnificent, deep and rich.
This quilt is ready to be sent to you for your approval in your home.



UF35 Unusually Fine Wool Challis Paisley Shawl with Black Center
Please view the detail photos (click image above) for more accurate colors.
UF35 Unusually Fine Wool Challis Paisley Shawl with Black Center
c.1865
64 x 126 inches
Found in NY, believe to be created in France
$1,250

During the 19th century women wore shawls not only for fashion but for warmth. These were our 19th century coats. Women would wrap the shawl around and around and drape it nicely. The black center of this paisley shawl is a beautiful 19th century black wool challis, which does not photograph well. (It’s a much richer black than shown in the photo). When you are not using this shawl as a drape on the way to the theater, it could be used as a banquet tablecloth in your dining room.



UF34 Wool Challis Whole Cloth Paisley Shawl
Please view the detail photos (click image above) for more accurate colors.
UF34 Wool Challis Whole Cloth Paisley Shawl
c.1860
61 x 127 inches
Found in NY, believe to be created in England
$1,200

During the 19th century women wore shawls not only for fashion but for warmth. These were our 19th century coats. Women would wrap the shawl around and around and drape it nicely. This is exceptionally long, measuring 137 inches. Because of the large size of this shawl, it could also be used as a banquet size tablecloth. Muted moss green, beige and red, the overall look is sophisticated. Fabulous condition.



conclk2 Folk Art Crib Quilt with Embroidered Swan
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CONCLK2 Original Folk Art Embroidered Table Embellishment
c.1890
28 x 38 inches
Found in Maine
$2,900

In complete original condition, this creatively embroidered table embellishment is comprised of 24 7” blocks with wool embroidered motifs on black wool. We have a swan, which to me represents a relationship lasting a lifetime, flowers and leaves representing spring, summer and happiness. There’s a bird with “AM” embroidered on its wing. Created in the 1890s, it appears that the maker was incredibly creative and probably came from a less affluent family. The backing of each block is a much earlier homewoven fabric. There are sleeves or what are called pockets sewn on the back making it ready for hanging. Equally beautiful would be as a center focal point of your dining room table...Ready to be sent for your viewing and approval.



Q9053 Victorian Wool Challis Crazy Quilt with over 100 original flora and fauna oil paintings
Please view the detail photos (click images above) for closeup views.
Q9053 Victorian Wool Challis Crazy Quilt with over 100 original flora and fauna oil paintings
c. 1890
70 x 82 inches
Cambridge, OH
$3,900

This wool and wool challis crazy quilt is comprised of 42 12”squares. This quilt is one in a million. There are over 100 flora and fauna original oil paintings covering the entire quilt. It’s actually 42 12” square paintings combined to make up one quilt. The embroidery embellishment surrounding the piece is also beautiful. However, the oil paintings superceed the beauty of everything else. Wool challis always was and remains to be a very expensive fabric. It is a combination of wool threads woven with silk threads. It is executed with an artistic and creative vision. The backing is a 19th century pink peony floral on a brown background. Please look at the close-up photos to see some of the amazing paintings.



conlk3 Wool Crazy Quilt
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CONLK3 Wool Crazy Quilt
c.1890
32 x 43 inches
New England
$800

A small Crazy quilt that was purposely made as a nice warm wool lap quilt for the New England winters. Created from blocks that have been pieced with various fabrics.... wool, wool challis and cotton flannel. The sqyuares measure apx. 12 inches square. The backing is a cotton flannel making this a very soft and cozy quilt. It had previously been hung on a wall so pockets have been sewn on and it’s ready to hang. Most of the fabrics are from the 1880’s, but since there are also fabrics dating 1890, we need to date it C.1890.



F607
Please view the detail photos (click image above) for more accurate colors.
F607 Woolen Folk Art Four Patch Fragment
c.1895
21 x 29 inches
Found in Pennsylvania
$325

This funky little fragment is comprised of various wool fabrics, both in texture and design. Pieced by hand and tied with colorful yarns, this little fragment has a very folk art feel. The four patch blocks are joined with a 2-1/4” brown wool challis fabric sashing. Each block measures apx 7” square. The backing is a c.1890 stripe in muted black, lavender and yellow. The binding used here came off the original quilt. This quilt art fragment, for your wall. is ready to be sent on approval.



conlk6 Signed and Dated Crazy Quilt with Native American Symbols
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CONLK6 Signed and Dated Crazy Quilt with Native American Symbols
Dated February 18, 1894
66 x 82 inches
Found in Maine
$1,600

After looking at and researching dozens of Crazy quilts to the best of my ability, I believe that this Maine quilt has definite Native American influence and symbolism. This original piece of art is comprised of 20 blocks, each measuring apx 16” square. A Victorian crazy quilt that is totally unique. There is Native American symbolism thoughout the quilt. This quilt has embroidered names, auld lang syne, staffs of wheat and ears of corn and planted rows in a field. Wonderful colors with wonderful motion and one of a kind. The front fabrics are wool, wool challis, wool silk and heavy cotton. The backing is all wool. This piece would provide great warmth as a quilt on a bed. As a piece of art,on a wall, this quilt would be artistically wonderful and soothing to the eyes. Ready to be sent for your viewing and approval.



Q6835 Embroidered Wool Challis Fan Quilt
Please view the detail photos (click images above) for closeup views.
Q6835 Embroidered Wool Challis Fan Quilt
c.1888
74 x 76 inches
Berk's County, Pennsylvania
$900

Created with 8 1/2” blocks, the fans have a 7” base and 4” segments. The gray wool challis border measures 5 1/4”, has a pillowcase edge and is backed with a wild and beautiful floral fabric. The unusual color combination of gray, indigo blue, tan and forest green create a dynamic graphic. The quilt has developed a few original moth holes over the last century. This lowers the price, but does not impair the quilt visually. Perfect for the wall or your bed.



CONJE4 Linsey Bars and Diamonds
CONJE4 Linsey Bars and Diamonds
18th century fabrics
88 x 94 inches
Fall River, MA - Quaker Family
SOLD

The quilt came from an 1820 house, but the quilt pre-dates the house. This quilt talks to me. Have you ever seen a quilt that is comprised of numerous other quilts sewn together in order to make a very graphic quilt to keep you warm? The fabric used in this quilt is early New England homespun. I feel that most of this fabric is from the 18th century. Before the Revolutionary War England would not allow us to raise Moreno sheep, which produce soft wool. We could only have sheep for mutton, which produce coarse wool. The majority of the homespun on this quilt is made from such sheep that produced coarse wool. Back in the 18th century and early 19th century in New England we were concerned with staying warm. Such fabrics would achieve this purpose.

One of the strips has blue woolen fabric that appears to be of a finer quality. I am not sure if this was purchased from England or if it was spun by the family. We also took a picture of the back to show you where strips of another quilt were added to make this larger. Creating such fabric often took as much as 2 years from start to finish. This fabric would have been loomed at home, usually on the third floor of old New England colonials. After the fabric was woven the last process before creating a textile was to dye the fabric different colors. All the colors were from vegetable dyes. There were approximately seven different vegetable dye colors available to New Englanders.

This quilt was made in Fall River, MA by a Quaker family. The name is available on the sale of the quilt. The house it came from was built in 1820. I wonder if their previous home burned, which was not unusual in those days, and they salvaged what they could from the quilts that survived, putting them together to create a fabulous early textile. History absolutely jumps out of this quilt. The red and black star, the only pieced part of the quilt, would have been the newest addition. This also goes along with the fact that it is in the row with blue fabric that is from a newer wool fabric. The diamonds on point in this row are also from early homespun linsey. This is a quilt I could study and study and never get tired of looking at it. The fabric used in this quilt is wool and/or a combination of wool and linen, sewn and quilted with linen thread. You will find moth holes on the early piece, and my advice to anyone thinking of buying an early wool quilt is that if it has no moth holes, then it is probably not an early piece.

Looking at the back, one piece 37" wide, two strips to the left, one 22" the other 14" On the left side of the 22" piece they actually left the outside binding on. The right hand side, a 15" piece has been attached. The batting is wool, which you can see through some wear in the quilt. The plaid piece on the bottom was added after this quilt had been put together and re-quilted. This is truly an amazing piece of history. The family name is available on sale.applied binding is 1/4 inch. <\p>

We are not surprised that this is hand sewn since it was created 20 years before the sewing machine. The backing, binding and border surrounding the edge are Prussian blue. In the late 20th century, one would call it cobalt blue. Quilting was a woman’s mark of excellence and this piece surpasses all expectations. The quilt has applied sleeves sewn on by Rocky Mountain Quilts and is ready to hang. Call Betsey for more details.





Q7000 Wool Fans, Hired Man's Bed Quilt
Please view the detail photos (click image above) for more accurate colors.
Q7000 Wool Fans, Hired Man's Bed Quilt
c.1880
42 x 64 (106.7 x 162.6 cm)
PA
$1,400

In excellent condition and in its original hired man's bed size, this soft wool challis quilt is both snuggly warm and graphically wonderful - perfect for use as a sophisticated crib quilt or as wall art. Arranged as a 4 x 7 array of fans this wool challis quilt has a 4 inch solid blackish green border and 28 fans made up of alternating red and green blades and finished with grayish brown fan handles. A small and very even outline track stitch is used as the embroidery embellishment throughout. The backing is a solid red challis with a 3/8 inch applied black green binding the same fabric as the border.

A beautiful, warm and sophisticated piece for your child's room...or for any room in your home. Use as either a small bed cover, throw or it would be stunning as graphic art on your wall. Ask us about sleeves for hanging, and to see this quilt on approval in the privacy of your home.

Q8904 Hole in the Barn Door / House Top Variation
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Q8904 Hole in the Barn Door / House Top Variation
c.1915
78 x 78 (198.1 x 198.1 cm)
NY or PA
$1,900

Such a fun and graphic wool quilt in a variation of the Hole in the Barn Door, or House Top, pattern. A lovely combination of both wool and cotton fabrics in bold and graphic patterns and colors. Blocks measure 8 1/2 inches square and are pieced both by hand and treadle machine. With such a variety of color in the octagon shapes the maker chose charcoal gray and black wools for each center hole and all four corners of each block. The color just leaps off the resulting black/charcoal gray ground for a stunning effect.

Entirely hand quilted with black thread in outline stitches throughout and a large 'X' stitched in each 'hole'. Backing fabric is a lovely rose/mauve cotton flannel - see detail image - with an applied 3/8 inch binding in the same fabric. This quilt is in unused condition with a few original, very small moth holes attesting to it being made mostly from wool. We have not touched them as they do not detract from the beauty of the quilt.

A wonderful piece of graphic art for either warmth and beauty on your bed, or for use as a stunning focal point in any room. Please ask us to see this quilt on approval in the privacy of your home.

Q8930 Linsey Woolsey Roman Bar Pyramids
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Q8930 Linsey Woolsey Roman Bar Pyramids
c.1855 pieced top c.1885 backing
67 x 78 (170.2 x 198.1 cm)
found in Lancaster County, PA
$3,600

A wonderful piece of textile art in excellent condition this quilt's top is comprised of homespun linsey-woolseys and wool challis from circa 1855. Wonderful solid colors are hand pieced in a combination of the Roman Bars and Pyramids patterns to make a glorious example of the finest in textile graphic art.

Pyramids measure approximately 6" per side with 7/8" wide bars in alternating solid colors of brown, ecru and red homespun linsey-woolseys and wool challis. Solid pyramids are homespun brown linsey-woolsey woven using two colors - brown and gold. Gorgeous.

Hand quilting in outline and diagonal lines is executed in brown and black threads. The backing is a c.1885 large scale floral challis in soft mauve, palest blue and ecru on solid brown. See detail image. The hand applied solid red binding is the same wool used in the pieced top. One of Betsey's personal favorites this wonderful quilt can be sent to you on approval for private viewing in your home. Ask her for more details.

Q8788 Wool Double Fan
Please view the detail photos (click image above) for more accurate colors.
Q8788 Wool Double Fan
c.1895
55 x 56 (139.7 x 142.2 cm)
PA
$2,200

What a wonderful variation on the traditional Fan quilt design! Special care was taken by the maker evidenced by the added touches to her fanciful and rather lively quilt. Lovely and varied wools and wool challis in a multi-hued palette make up the fans which are each hand embellished with a combination of gold and ecru silk floss in the featherstitch pattern. Fans are arranged in an almost ‘snail trail’ pattern which adds movement for the eye and injects a sense of fun to an already beautiful quilt. Each fan block measures 6 ¾ inches with the spokes a mere 3 inches long. A fancy pattern of long and short blanket stitches in gold and ecru silk floss is an added decoration for the pillowcase edging.

The backing on this piece is a soft and lovely confederate blue with amusing and very puffy pom-pom reverse ties in white wool yarn. A few original moth holes here and there on the backing attest to it being all wool.

This is a fantastic fan quilt just filled with positive energy. It’s a great size to use as art on that special wall or use it as a throw on the couch for those cool evenings. One of Betsey’s favorite finds. Remember, it can be sent to you on approval.

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Contact Us

Telephone - for orders or questions -
1-207-363-6800
Email - betsey@rmquilts.com
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130 York Street
York, Maine 03909

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