My daughter's MIL passed away many years ago. She was born almost 100 years ago. When she passed away she left a large chest full of completed but unquilted top. It used to be the norm that people made the tops and put them away until they needed to make a quilt for a gift. Then they'd get a "bee" together and complete as many quilts as needed. My daughter was in a contest at MQX to submit a quilt made from any KC Star quilt pattern from the 30's to 50's. She just pulled out an authentic 30's quilt from the stash and quilted it.
I just purchased a beautiful applique quilt top from the early 50's. It's just waiting to be hand-quilted. I have a friend who's going to do that for me this year. If it had been quilted at the time the top was completed, it would probably be worn out by now. However, I am now going to enjoy this beautiful quilt. Someone, someday will complete the tops you make and store away.