Happy birthday, Abie baby!

Hello everyone. Since yesterday was Presidents' Day in the U.S., here's a tribute to Abraham Lincoln. Barb Vedder made this wonderful little quilt for my birthday a couple years ago. Considering her penchant for things Presidential, I'll bet it was hard for her to part with. Thanks again, Barb!

I call it "The Lincoln Memorial.” Sure, it's a "monumental" name for a miniature quilt, but I like a good play on words!

The medallion-style format features Lincoln is at its center, surrounded by three deceptively simple borders. According to Barb, "fabric choices really matter in small projects like this. When only a few are used, it can be challenging to pick the right ones."

After trying "a gazillion” options, Barb's persistence paid off! Her savvy choices lend a sense of depth, complexity, and gravitas to the otherwise simple design. 

I wonder if Barb had Ford’s Theatre in mind as she auditioned fabrics, or was it happenstance how closely they resemble the scene of Lincoln’s demise?

From the rich red carpet and brocade upholstery...

to the heavy swag draperies of the Presidential Box, the similarities are striking.

Even the riverboat scene on the back is accurate to the era.

This is just one of many patriotic quilts inspired by Barb’s love of U.S. history and Americana. She displays her quilts and collections throughout her lovely home. Be sure to check them out!

Incidentally, there's also a connection between our little town of Batavia, Illinois and Mary Todd Lincoln. Ten years after her husband's tragic death, Mary was deemed mentally unstable and committed to Bellevue Place, a rest home and sanitarium just blocks from our house. Her stay was brief, a mere four months, but long enough for Mrs. Lincoln to earn a prominent spot in local lore.