Needlework at Historic Hildene
Arlington, Vermont
May 10-12, 2002
by Patricia Cummings
photos by James Cummings
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On May 10, 2002, we attended a needlework exhibit at Hildene, the mansion estate of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln. The white sign with black lettering at the side of the road announced the show, and we turned off onto a winding dirt road, banked in the middle to prevent rain puddles and erosion. The main building was not yet open to the public for regular tours. Before opening each year, for the last nineteen years, there has been a judged needlework show.
Living room at the Hildene
Click on any image for a larger view
Assorted Array of Entries
The exhibit attracted two hundred and five entries. There was something here to attract every needle worker’s special interest, be it counted cross stitch, crewel, needlepoint, quilting, rug hooking, Christmas items, drawn and pulled threadwork samplers, or pillows. All submitted items were superimposed on the existing decor and were displayed on antique beds, dressers, tables, floors, and over doors ... everywhere one looked there was something new to see. Of course, the exquisite furnishings, drapes, bed curtains, old screens, and desks were a treat to view, in and of themselves, creating a certain ambience.
Jinny Beyer Fabrics in Quilt
One huge quilt, using Jinny Beyer border fabrics was hung in the foyer. What an incredible piece of work! Another favorite was a sampler in pastel colors of small birds, blue eggs, and other spring-like and cheerful motifs. There were two of these entered into the show, so I assume that they were made from a commercial design source.
One of the bedrooms with quilt
We were particularly intrigued by a shadow box which contained a southwestern motif in counted cross stitch in each unit. It was colorful and compelling and very well done. The show was a great overview of just what can be accomplished with needle and thread.
Hildene is a huge, stately, and very formal building with white colonnades at the portal. If one walks up a small hill to the left of the house, expansive farm land is visible. A farmer mowing the field to gather spring tillage, looks very small indeed, from this vantage point. Hildene is supported by membership funds and hosts many cultural and educational activities throughout their open season. In the winter, cross country trails are available free of charge to members, and hiking is allowed in the summer time.
Heading Home
As we drove through the countryside just south of Hildene, we spotted some "wildlife." This sight was no doubt due to Mother's Day weekend. We just had to stop and take a photo of Mama Bear and Baby Bear that was displayed on someone's lawn. Isn't she beautiful? All in all, we had a terrific day!
Mother and Baby Bear in Vermont
©Copyright 2002. Patricia and James Cummings, Quilter's Muse Publications, Concord, New Hampshire.