By Betty Noel | For The Tribune

The All Thumbs Garden Club held its August meeting at the home of Nancy Fleming, with Judi McMillen and Julie Rieser serving as hostesses. President Bridget Molinari welcomed both members and guest, Judy Campbell.

During the meeting, Molinari reminded everyone of important upcoming events, including the district meeting on Sept. 5 in Greensburg and the wildflower workshop on Sept. 12 in Indianapolis. She also noted the dedication of the Blue Star Memorial at Crossroads Park on Oct. 12.

The next club meeting is scheduled for Sept. 12 at Jane Lucas’ home, where Judi McMillen will lead a discussion on the topic of medicinal plants. Hostesses for the meeting will be Molinari and Norma Wilson.

In keeping with the club’s theme, a quote from the All Thumbs handbook was shared: “Life is a quilt. The pattern always changes. Through life lessons, a masterpiece is created.”

Nancy Fleming and Linda Sullivan presented an engaging program on “How Gardens Influenced Quilts.” Nancy referenced John Rice Erwin’s book, “A People and Their Quilts,” highlighting how quilting traditions spanned from the Queen of Scots to women in the simplest European cottages and on to the wives of American presidents, to women living in rustic one-room cabins. Notably, southern Appalachia remained a stronghold of quilting traditions, reflecting the region’s rich cultural diversity. The term “quilt” itself originates from the Latin word “culcita,” meaning stuffed sack, mattress or cushion, with the French credited for introducing floral appliqué designs. Quilts were often created as wedding gifts or cherished heirlooms for loved ones. Nancy displayed several quilts pieced and quilted by her grandmother, illustrating these timeless traditions.

Linda further enriched the discussion by exploring various quilt styles, including cottage garden, crazy quilts and embroidery designs. She also stated that women were encouraged by women’s magazines to cultivate flower gardens. Consequently, quilts of the 19th century reflected the influence of gardening. Linda then shared several family heirloom quilts made by her grandmother and mother, emphasizing the intricate details and craftsmanship. Linda eloquently stated,

“Though they may be faded and worn, time cannot erase the beauty in a quilt or the love in the heart of the maker.”

Several members also showcased quilts passed down through generations, along with some they had crafted themselves, underscoring the enduring legacy of quilting within the club. The meeting concluded with a rendition of “Happy Birthday” in celebration of Jane Lucas.