Cobblestone Museum presenting program on historical Baltimore Album Quilts

Provided photo: Baltimore Album Quilts, such as this example here, will be the topic of a virtual lecture at 7 p.m. Wednesday to benefit the Cobblestone Society and Museum.

CHILDS – The Cobblestone Society and Museum will host its first fundraising event of 2026 on Wednesday. A virtual lecture will be presented at 7 p.m. on the topic of Baltimore Album Quilts, by quilt historian and collector Deborah “Debby” Cooney of Maryland, one of today’s leading experts on these historical quilts.

She and Ronda McAllen published “Baltimore Album Quilts: New Research,” in the journal of the American Quilt Study Group in 2017, in addition to other articles and essays, according to Sue Bonafini, assistant director of the Cobblestone Museum.

Cooney’s talk is titled “Baltimore Album Quilts: Their History and Major Styles.” Cooney shares that Baltimore Album Quilts, produced largely between 1842 and 1862, are among the most elaborate and accomplished examples of American quilt making.

Her presentation will explain the context of their development and the various design styles, largely in floral applique, that emerged from Baltimore’s talented needlewomen and its religious groups. Many images of the genre’s lavish creations will be discussed.

Registrations for the virtual lecture will be accepted at the Museum’s event’s page at Cobblestonemuseum.org or click here for more information.

Donations are accepted in exchange for the Zoom link to attend the program. Donors may choose their level of support on a sliding scale basis, beginning at just $5. Donations of $25 or greater allow individuals or businesses to claim the title of sponsor or support of the program. Town & Country Quilt Shop in Albion and Country Treasures Quilt Shop in Brockport are current sponsors of this event, as well as a few anonymous donors who offered additional financial support.

The Cobblestone Society owns a small collection of antique quilts and 19th century coverlets in their textiles collection. An exhibit of more than 20 coverlets is currently displayed at the Museum’s Thompson-Kast Visitors Center.

A full color catalog details each coverlet, used as a reference guide or for purchase by donation. Interested individuals can call (585) 589-9013 for an appointment to view this exhibit or for more information regarding Wednesday’s virtual lecture.