The Poplar Bluff Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) recently donated a “freedom” quilt to the Wheatley School of Poplar Bluff and Black History Museum Board of Directors.
The quilt will be raffled as a fundraiser drawing during the annual June 19, Juneteenth Celebration in Poplar Bluff. Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. It is also often observed for celebrating African-American culture.
NSDAR state chapter historian Margaret Shackleford of Poplar Bluff said the idea of donating the quilt came after the group viewed a video of Wheatley School board member Rex Rattler showing necessary repairs the historic school building needs.
“We couldn’t give a big donation,” said Shackleford “but we could make a quilt for them to raffle.” Several of the NSDAR members sewed the quilt blocks and chapter member Venita Walker quilted the piece, added Shackleford.
The name “freedom” quilt stems from the historical reference of the legendary Underground Railroad. The secret path was neither underground nor a railroad, but a way an enslaved person on the run could safely escape without a trace.
According to legend, a safe house along the Underground Railroad was often indicated by a quilt hanging from a clothesline or windowsill. These quilts were said to be designed with shapes and motifs sewn into the design to indicate safe hiding places or stations where those on the run good find shelter, food and directions or send secret messages to others.
Raffle tickets are available for the June 19 drawing from any member of the Poplar Bluff Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution or Rhonda Kennedy and Kathern Harris of the Wheatley School for $1 each or six for $5.00