Tennessee State Museum exhibits 2 centuries of quilts

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee State Museum newest exhibit features two centuries worth of quilts from across Tennessee.

“Between the layers: Art and Story in Tennessee Quilts” runs through July 7 with quilts selected from the museum’s extensive collection.

The exhibit includes an 1808 quilt by Rebecah Foster that displays a central eagle and 17 stars for the number of states at the time. Around the eagle are oval frames finely embroidered with the names of the states. Each encloses a patriotic verse.

According to the museum, the quilt’s decoration expresses loyalty during a time when U.S. relations with England were strained preceding the War of 1812.

The museum will hold a series of lectures and classes in conjunction with the exhibit.

More information is available at tnmuseum.org .