A note pinned to the lining of this quilt states: “Log Cabin Quilt made by Lilla V’s mother. Lining from wedding dress, 1856.” Unfortunately there is no further information about Lilla V.
Eight-inch “Log Cabin” blocks are set in a “Light and Dark” pattern to create this visually striking quilt. Silks of all types (plain, checked, striped, printed, pattern-woven, damask, plaid, ribbed, ombre-striped, warp printed, brocaded) and plain and plaid satins were used. The brown striped silk from the 1856 wedding dress that was used for the lining, also appears in many of the blocks. The blocks are constructed on plain, printed, and pattern-woven cottons. It is finished with a plaid silk strip binding, seamed to the front, whipped to the lining. It is a fine example of both the popular “Log Cabin” design and of the silk pieced quilts often called parlor or sofa throws.