Wilmington, Vermont
by Patricia and James Cummings
Over the years, Wilmington, Vermont has been a favorite destination for us. One reason is the "Norton House, A Quilter's Paradise," situated in an old structure, built in 1760 and now on the National Register of Historical Sites. The shop is open, every day, from 10 to 5, and has a website: norquilt@sover.net
The Norton House Quilt Shop is right next door to a delightful 1836 Country Store. photo by James Cummings on August 15, 2007.
On this particular day, I had no problem in quickly selecting just the perfect fabrics for a reproduction quilt of a nineteenth century quilt in my collection. I also spotted some day of the week designs for Redwork kitchen towels that had to come home with me. The shop features many books, threads, more than 3,000 fabrics, an attic with discounted fabrics, and needlework supplies, as well as gift items.
While I was busy schmoozing with the nice lady who was cutting my fabric, Jim was wandering around town with his camera. He spotted quite a few items of interest, which we will share will you, without further adieu.
Decorated Bears Throughout the Town
One of a number of decorated bear statues in Wilmington, Vermont
Lovely setting for a bear, don't you think?
Creative Painting on Blue Bear
Musical Bear
Bear with grapes and grape leaves
Turquoise Bear
Prayerful Bear, in front of a church
Bear Mural for Taking Photos
Now For Something A Little Different
Statue of Molly Stark, wife of General John Stark who fought at the Battle of Bennington (near Wilmington, VT)
Statue in tribute to all Civil War Soldiers
Downtown Wilmington is a lovely collection of small shops, all within a short walking distance. Four major roads intersect in the downtown area. Just a little ways out of town, we stopped at a Pizza restaurant and had a delicious Feta Cheese and Olive pizza.
North of Wilmington is Bennington with the Bennington Museum that houses the Jane Stickle quilt of "Dear Jane" fame, and the paintings and artifacts of Grandma Moses, as well as other art work. Last year, Bennington had a painted moose contest and some moose can still be seen throughout town. There is a large downtown district with lots of shopping.
The Vermont countryside is particularly beautiful in the autumn. Vermont is a frequent destination for us as we love to see the variety of homes, the sparkling rivers and brooks, the hills and dales, the historic sites, and places to shop for antiques, and most of all, the friendly people there!
©Copyright 2007. Patricia and James Cummings, Quilter's Muse Publications, Concord, NH. Questions? Comments? Please write to: pat@quiltersmuse.com