8/24/24
Finishing Blocks from Juniata Valley
The quilt block for Barree, highlighting its forge, and Colerain, representing the Colerain Center for Education and Art, reflects the diverse contributions of these communities. Barree’s section of the block celebrates the town’s industrial heritage as a forge, a cornerstone of its historical economy. In contrast, Colerain’s part of the block showcases the Colerain Center for Education and Art, a newer nonprofit housed in the Colerain Mansion. This center enriches Northern Huntingdon County by hosting musicians, writers, and visual artists, thus bringing a vibrant cultural and artistic presence to the region. Together, the block honors both the historical and contemporary impacts of these communities.
BLOCK- Barree Forge
The Barree forge quilt block highlights the region’s rich history with iron production, showcasing one of several iron forges that once dominated the area. The block features photos provided by Lonnie Smith, depicting the forge and its surrounding property through various periods. These images illustrate the forge’s role in the broader context of the area’s iron furnaces, which were integral to the local economy and industry. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, these furnaces were pivotal in shaping the region’s industrial landscape, driving economic growth and providing employment. The block honors this industrial heritage by preserving the visual legacy of the iron furnaces that played a crucial role in the community’s history.
BLOCK- Colerain Center for Education and Art
The Colerain Center for Education and Art, located in the historic Colerain Mansion, is a vibrant nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching Northern Huntingdon County through the arts. Since its inception, the center has been a hub for cultural activity, hosting a diverse array of musicians, writers, and visual artists. By offering a platform for creative expression and cultural engagement, the Colerain Center fosters a dynamic arts community and brings a wealth of artistic experiences to the region.