Gravestmor’s craft attack continues with and short trip upriver to the small rural community of Gee Bend, Alabama. You see, here, they make the mad quilts. Seriously, you thought your freitag was hot? Nu-uh. Not next to this quilt action it ain’t:

Linda Pettway, born 1929, “Housetop” - eight-block variation, ca. 1975

Gee Bend was the site of cotton plantations and the two primary landholders were Joseph Gee and Mark Pettway. After the civil war, the slaves were freed and took the name Pettway, hence many of the quiltmakers being, Pettways.

Loretta Pettway, born 1942. String-pieced quilt 1963. One of three quilts made from a batch of mens clothing.

Essie Bendolph Pettway, born 1956. “Roman Stripes” variation, 1997

Winona Ryder, ca 1995. Okay, not really, just checking to see if you are paying attention… Its actually by Arlonzia Pettway, born 1923. “Lazy Gal” or “Bars,” ca 1975

Annie Mae Young, born 1928. Blocks and strips, ca. 1970

All Images taken from the Quilts of Gee Bend in context exhibition.

Thanks to Matt for the link. Sweet link Matt. You did really well.