Columbia-Willamette Quilt Study Group (CWQSG)
The Columbia-Willamette Quilt Study Group (CWQSG) is a regional chapter of the American Quilt Study Group (AQSG). The group’s purpose is the same as AQSG’s: to establish, sustain, and promote the highest standards for quilt-related studies.
History
Founded in 1982 by noted quilt historian, artist, and consultant Mary Bywater Cross, CWQSG has participated in many activities and events including exhibitions, studio visits, lectures, and a yearly retreat featuring a scholar-in-residence. During her many years as group leader, Mary pioneered quilt history research in Oregon and published groundbreaking books: “Treasures in the Trunk, Quilts of the Oregon Trail” and “Quilts and Women of the Mormon Migration”.
In 2009, the group welcomed new facilitator, Martha Spark, a quilt restorer and Victorian costume and textiles historian with over 25 years experience in the museum field. In 2011, after Martha relocated to Oklahoma, Bill Volckening and Mary Bywater Cross teamed up to keep the group running during the interim.
While we seek qualified volunteers to serve as facilitators and officers for the group, Bill and Mary hope to foster the education and development of up-and-coming quilt historians as well as seasoned researchers. Studying and learning about quilts is the group’s ultimate goal.
Quilt Study
The Columbia-Willamette Quilt Study Group holds quarterly meetings at locations around the state. Meetings offer an opportunity to view quilts and discuss them as a group. CWQSG also hosts an annual retreat with featured scholars-in-residence. Other CWQSG activities include special presentations, museum and gallery visits, and quilt documentation.
Meetings and Activities
Meetings have included show-and-tell and special presentations about Baltimore Album quilts, New York Beauty quilts, Sesquicentennial Replica quilts, Redwork quilts, Crazy quilts and Signature quilts. In 2010, we launched the Oregon Quilt Project with Documentation Days at the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show. In 2011, the group visited the Oregon History Museum for the Timeless Quilts exhibit in July.
Join Us!
The Columbia-Willamette Quilt Study group welcomes anyone who has an interest in quilts and quilt study. For membership information, please e-mail interim facilitator Bill Volckening.
