The Blessing Quilt

This quilt, created for the town of Shipshewana by regional women is a handmade "visual prayer" for those who have been here before us, those here now and for the people of the future that will care take and create a life here. Visit the Town Hall on Morton Street to see this quilt hanging in the lobby.

The Blessing Quilt - Click for Closeup

"May all the people be remembered, and blessed."
For those who were asked to leave these lands, now our home, behind them, may their descendents find peace. For those who left old lands for this new one, may their seeds manifest a harvest. May a Greater Compass than our own guide those who serve this town and the people; guide as well, the residents, merchants and visitors whose paths lead here. And may we be vigilant "keepers of the fire," which are the values that form the heart of this community, guiding those coming on the trail behind us.

The original descendents of this community, The Potawatomi, known as "Keepers of the Fire," are represented by the appliqué work in the border and the pieced center block titled, "Keepers of the Fire" both of which were inspired by beautiful Potawatomi beadwork sewn onto articles of clothing.

The sampler of 28 quilt blocks represents all people who have come here over time, each unique in design. The particular use of solid colors utilizing a "scrap, use up what you hae on hand" method, represents the noteworthy quilt reputation brought to the larger world by Amish quilt makers.

At the center of the quilt is the "fire," our heritage and values, kept lit for future generations so they know the way "home." In the traditional Native American medicine wheel, the fire stays lit at the center of the wheel for the children.