Chronicle Fall 2009 - Kentucky Historical Society

the fields of western Kentucky. Pieces of clothing or
textiles recalling family members were incorporated
into the quilt. Material from Lysbeth’s grandmother’s
dress, a fragment from Ned Breathitt’s grandmother’s
wedding dress and a piece of authentic Wallace plaid
can be located on the quilt. The quilt tells the story of
travel, place and family.
And like many quilts, friends and family added to the
story. Lucile consulted with them and they gave her
encouragement. Some donated materials or made
squares. Ned Breathitt, former governor of Kentucky
and Lucile’s nephew, suggested that she document the
squares and their meanings. In a plain Holly Hobbie
notebook, Lucile interpreted the special squares.
Her handwritten notes help us over 30 years later
understand the story of the quilt.
What started as a crazy idea by Lucile Van Cleve Wallace
became a special Christmas gift for her daughter.
This idea, however, documents a personal journey,
explores a family history and captures a mother’s love.
Though originally intended as a personal gift, with the
donation of these materials to the Kentucky Historical
Society the significance of the quilt has broadened.
Through this quilt we can interpret the history of the
commonwealth and the meaning of family.
Lucile Wallace expressed her feelings well in her
Christmas card message: “I wanted a gift for you that
you would cherish for many years to come—and I hope
you will. [Signed] Mother.” This gift to the Society will
now be cherished by all Kentuckians for many years to
come. v
Above: Quilt creator Lucile Van Cleve Wallace, 1953.
Right: Closeup view of some of the crazy quilt squares.
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