In or about 1979, the first Historical Society Quilt Show was conducted, according to the historical society recording secretary’s records. The minutes of Feb. 2, 1978 say, “The Coverlet Show has been postponed until next year.” One can only assume from that phrase that they had already had what they referred to as a Coverlet Show.

A few years ago, the Historical Society Quilt Show title was changed to the Historical Society Quilt Show, presented by The Pioneer Women.

The Pioneer Women’s Club has always prepared for and officially presented the Quilt Show. Yes, there were — and are to present time — a few general members of the historical society who are not members of the Pioneer Women’s Club, who help with the café and other duties of the Quilt Show. However, the majority of Quilt Show participants are Pioneer Women’s Club members. This is why the title of the Quilt Show was changed.

The Quilt Show has been canceled only once. Before the 2013 Quilt Show, the historical society sold its former building to prepare for a move into Nashville. Then, in 2014, the Quilt Show was conducted in the Brown County High School cafeteria. The show was a beautiful success; however, attendance could have been more if not for a parking snag.

By the 2015 Quilt Show, the historical society had moved into and dedicated its new home, the History Center: A perfect setting for the 36th annual Quilt Show.

Coming up the front walkway and extending into the History Center, the decorations were just beautiful. This was another successful, beautiful show of quilts, coverlets and wearing apparel.

The 37th annual Quilt Show in 2016 promises to be even better than the one before. In addition to more than 100 quilts, there will be spinning and weaving demonstrations, antique quilts, a lunch café with homemade pies and music.

On Sunday there will be a drawing for the raffle quilt made by the Pioneer Women especially for this Quilt Show. The quilt pattern used for this quilt is the spool.

— Pauline Hoover, Brown County Historical Society Archives

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What: 36th annual Brown County Historical Society Quilt Show, presented by the Pioneer Women’s Club

When: Friday and Saturday, Sept. 16-17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Brown County History Center, 90 E Gould St.

Admission: $6; children 10 and younger admitted free

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The Pioneer Women meet for work days each Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon at the History Center, where they quilt, weave, sew and work on crafts. The last Wednesday of the month is an activity day, with a business meeting followed by a light luncheon.

If you are interested in joining the Pioneer Women’s Club, the women are interested in welcoming you. Dues are $1 per calendar year.

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