I don't know exactly when this was done, but probably near to the end or the end of WWII. I could be wrong, but there were a lot of pre-stamped embroidery designs at that time, where you could buy the kit, probably from Montgomery Ward or Sears. What an amazing find, as the embroidery was very well done and appears to be in very good shape. I personally feel sad when things like this wonderful quilt go into a garage sale because the families do not appreciate what a treasure it is. I truly wish I had one of my mom's quilts, but I treasure the 2 sets of pillowcases that she embroidered, although well used, they were her work, and I'm glad to have them.

That is a wonderful treasure and so full of history! If only it could speak!

I agree!! I have bought and sold over 200 antique quilts and never saw anything like this. Can't tell if it is a top or finished, if it is just a top, PLEASE show it to a local museum before doing anything else with it. I would hate to see a piece of history being so drastically changed by modern finishing.

What a piece of history! So glad you found it. And I agree with ptquilts - definitely do a lot of research especially with quilt historians.

What a great quilt!

These blocks were printed as a set by William Pinch of the Rainbow Quilt Block Company in Cleveland, Ohio. He first produced these pre-stamped embroidery blocks in the 1930s, but they became very popular during and after WWII. I have researched the Rainbows for the American Quilt Study Group and you can find my paper in the 2009 Uncoverings journal. Pinch was a very prolific designer with over 1000 designs to his name, but he did not often label his work so identification becomes an issue. He did, however, produce over a million 9", 12" and 18" preprinted embroidery and applique blocks in a long career from 1925-1972. You have a wonderful quilt! If you ever decide to sell it, please contact me at [email protected]

Wonderful quilt -great embroidery.

it is unbelievable that someone would let such a treasure go!

Very nice find. I agree it was surely to commemorate the WWII victory. Thanks for sharing!

I suspect the woman who made this was a prolific quilter, and her children had not interest in following in her footsteps. The woman who sold it to me seemed suprised I found such value in it enough to ask questions, so I also suspect her mother was very humble about her artistry. Or perhaps their relationship was difficult so everything her mother made is tainted by bad memories in her mind. Yes, it is sad.
If I finish it, it will be by hand and I would want to try to find a vintage backing. I have heard (read) that some quilt historians recommend not finishing an antique top, in which case i would put a double row of stitches around the raw edge and care for it the best I can... thanks for all the help! There are a few sub faded spots and a couple small stains, but nothing too distracting.