Friday, January 8, 2010

Collections: American Coverlets



  This antique jacquard coverlet is one of my favorite thrift store finds of all time. I found it in a local shop about two years ago and nearly screamed when I saw it (do you know the feeling?). I have wanted a coverlet for many years so it was quite a treat to find one (that I could afford) in my neck of the woods. I love the unique history of this American textile, and was expecially thrilled when I was able to find some history on the weaver of my own coverlet. I did a search on internet and was able to find out through county records that JP Cole was born in 1824 to in the Auburn township area of Ohio, where his family were some of the earliest settlers. Shortly after his birth, his family relocated to Vernon Township. He was raised on a farm, but after reaching adulthood, he learned to weave fancy coverlets using the Jacquard loom. He followed this trade for many years with good success. Like his father, he also farmed and ran a cider press on his property. He married Mary A Warner in 1858 and they had nine children.
Knowing this brief  history of the weaver made the coverlet that much more special.

2 comments:

  1. I know exactly what you mean about the 'I want to scream' feeling when you find that perfect something. I felt that way about this fun find... http://tinkerverve.wordpress.com/2010/01/05/a-fun-fun-find/
    Have you noticed that I'm planning an art retreat. Any chance you would be interested? It would be great to have you there.
    Congratulations on the MaryJane mention in her new magazine. (I have charms in there too, w/o the mention) ;-)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Elaine
    I love the barbed wire find! Such an important element of our Western American history.
    The retreat sounds wonderful, unfortunetly it falls on my son's birthday. Please let me know about the next one.

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for your comment.