Mildred C. Owen, of Atlanta, Georgia, crafted this child’s quilt for her daughter, Brenda Owen Brown, in the 1940s. “The Three Little Pigs” pattern was designed by Ruby Short McKim in 1934 and published in various newspapers. Embroidered inscriptions and appliqued motifs on seven blocks relate the well-known story. “Open the [applique of a door]; And Let Me in; NO? by the hair; Of my Chin [two appliqued chins]; Then I’ll Huff; and I’ll Puff; I’ll blow [applique of house] in.” Eight other appliqued blocks depict 3 pigs, 3 houses, and two blocks for the wolf. It was quilted by a neighbor. This is a delightful example of a children's story used as an inspiration for crib or children's quilt patterns.
Mildred C. Owen was born on August 18, 1913 in Calhoun, Georgia, to Charles Lee and Nora Starnes Chatmon. She and her two sisters grew up doing many kinds of handwork and made many of their own clothes. Mildred was also an avid gardener, her hybridized daylilies won horticulture awards. Mildred died June 8, 1973 in Atlanta, Georgia.
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