8/13/24
Melding Communities and Organizations
To tell the full story of the region, I realized I needed to fill in gaps both visually and socially. I chose to create town squares to complement the community organization squares, expanding the narrative and allowing viewers to see the discoveries I made across various parts of the county. This approach not only shares my perspective but also highlights regions without participating organizations.
This archival collage quilt project explores how spaces and places influence and shape the people within them. As I work on these blocks, I am continually inspired by the emerging relationships and perspectives. In my research, I’ve found that clubs, lodges, organizations, and local teams have been integral in fostering a sense of community in these small towns. Through newspaper announcements and local publications, I’ve come to appreciate the significant role these local media have played in connecting and engaging communities, which I had initially overlooked. The stories of resilience, collaboration, and transformation that I uncover will be woven into the quilt, offering a deeper understanding of each community’s impact over the years.
Block - Mount Union
The Mount Union quilt block collage captures the town’s rich history through a collection of meaningful images. It features a photo of the local baseball team, symbolizing community pride, and a Shapiro Theater show poster, recalling the town’s vibrant cultural past. A photograph of Main Street from the early 1900s offers a glimpse into Mount Union’s early days, while images of the town’s numerous refractories pay tribute to the industrial backbone that sustained the community for decades. Together, these elements weave a narrative that honors Mount Union’s legacy and the spirit of its people.
Block - Mapleton
Mapleton’s bicentennial celebration will feature a community picnic, complete with a schedule of activities that celebrate the town’s history. Isett’s Heritage Museum has provided a special display of historical photos, including an image of John Webb, a circus performer from Mapleton, whose remarkable acts have been a source of local pride. The display also includes photos of the sand quarry, a key element of Mapleton’s industrial past, highlighting the town’s enduring legacy and the hardworking community that built it.
Block - Mill Creek
With old photographs, maps, and articles provided by Isett’s, I was able to create a simple block that captured a moment in this small community’s history.