I also found this info on history of quilts:
Pattern Names:
Quilt pattern names came from the women who made them. The quilts' names reflected women's homes, family life, the environment, religious beliefs and even political happenings.
Quilts relating to pioneer life: Bear's Paw, Log Cabin, Oregon Trail, Prairie Queen.
Quilts relating to religion: Rose of Sharon, Star of Bethlehem, Jacob's Ladder, Joseph's Coat.
Quilts relating to domestic life: Broken Dishes, Baby Blocks, Cake Stand, Bow Tie, Old Maid's Puzzle, Grandmother's Fan.
Quilts relating to nature: Pine Tree, Blazing Star, Maple Leaf.
Quilts with patriotic or political themes: President's Wreath, Dolly Madison's Star, Drunkard's Path (popular during the Temperance Movement).
Timelines:
1800---Nine Patch pattern appears.
1806---Irish Chain known, maybe the first use of a block pattern as the overall quilt design.
1810--1830---Log Cabin pattern developed.
1812---Increase of patriotic-themed quilts.
1834--1859---Dresden Plate, Lemoyne Star patterns known.
1870---Crazy Quilt becomes popular.
1890---Double Wedding Ring introduced.
1929--1939---Sunbonnet Sue started.