Skip to main content
Advanced Search
D2014-CMD_R.2014-1596 Quilt 2014.609.3
Quilt Top or Table Cover, Redwork Signature
D2014-CMD_R.2014-1596 Quilt 2014.609.3

Quilt Top or Table Cover, Redwork Signature

Date1895-1900
Maker Clara Jane Ulmer (1871 - 1908)
OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Lycoming County
MediumCotton with cotton embroidery thread
DimensionsOH: 94 ½ x OW: 101 ¼ in. (240 x 257 cm)
Credit LineGift of Harry Vernon and Louise Schneider Family
Object number2014.609.3
DescriptionRectangular counterpane or table cover of white cotton backed with white cotton and embroidered in red cotton. The central design is composed of 450 rectangular patches measuring 2 ¼ inches by 3 ¾ inches, featuring embroidered autographs and calling cards, dating from 1895-1899. Surrounding this central block of autographs are a variety of floral motifs, insects, animals, and a "good luck" horseshoe. The maker's name, Clara J. Ulmer, is embroidered at the top on a scroll surrounded by holly. The border motifs are interspersed with another 119 autographs which are outlined in embroidered rectangles. The counterpane has a border of embroidered leaves, the outer edges of which are cut to shape. Stitches include outline/stem, herringbone, buttonhole, chain, and straight stitches forming eyelets designed to hold front and back together.
Label TextToward the end of the nineteenth century, it was fashionable to embroider with colorfast red cotton floss on white grounds, a combination that was especially popular for items that had to be washed, such as children’s quilts and bibs, table covers, and summer bed coverings. At the same time, many women indulged in the fad for collecting autographs from friends and strangers alike. This textile combines both fashionable pastimes in one piece.The patches have inscriptions that include Lycoming, Williamsport, and Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, as well as Ohio, and the names indicate that most of the autographs come from family members, friends, and local businesses and officials. Also included are unidentified Asian or Middle Eastern script signatures. One of the autographs is that of Buffalo Bill Cody, who toured the United States with his Wild West show beginning in the late 1880s. It is possible Clara Jane collected his autograph at one of the venues.
ProvenanceDescended through the family of the maker, Clara Jane Ulmer. Louise Thompson Schneider, a donor of the textile, is Clara J. Ulmer's great-niece.

History of owner:
Clara Jane Ulmer was born on August 5, 1871, in Jersey Shore (Lycoming County), Pennsylvania, the daughter of Isaac William Ulmer and Elizabeth Ann Elder Ulmer. As an adult, she lived in Watson (Lycoming County); she died on June 17, 1908, at the age of 36. She never married and had no children. Clara's father's parents were German immigrants. Clara had 5 brothers and 3 sisters.