The Battleford Quilters celebrated their 40th anniversary last week with a come and go tea at the Alex Dillabough Centre.
Formed on March 6, 1974, the group enjoys the traditional art of hand-quilting. About 13 members meet each Wednesday at the Alex Dillabough Centre from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
The tea featured the display of a number of quilts showing off the artistry of quilts current and vintage, including one that was the result of six and a half years of work. Yet another was created to showcase an inheritance of vintage applique squares. One quilt on display was over 100 years old.
One of the visitors to the tea was also 100 years old. Lindsay Young joined the group in 1979 and was a member until two years ago when she moved to Lashburn.
The most senior of current members, Betty Keller, was the official tea server. Keller, who joined the group in 1979, along with Mary Scherman and Arlene Schwab make up the executive.
The Battleford Quilters have over the years sewn and hand quilted many items for donation to community charities such as the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation and the River Heights Lodge Auxiliary.
They also take orders for hand quilting, with the proceeds of their work donated to local endeavours such as the Battleford Tot Lot. They especially enjoy the opportunity to revive antique quilt tops.
Members have also enjoyed demonstrating hand quilting for special occasions at Fort Battleford and the Western Development Museum.
Their sessions at the Alex Dillabough Centre are open to visitors who may want to observe, put in a few stitches and have a cup of tea or coffee, and new members are always welcome.
Anyone interested in having their quilt top hand quilted or in joining the club, may contact: Betty at 306-937-3403, Mary at 306-937-2926 or Arlene at 306-445-2660.
