It's obviously a Rail Fence, but I seem to remember that it has its own name as a Quilt Block. I'll have to look it up in my block reference books, cause I'm not finding it in my aged brain data base.

prior to wwII this design was popular in many cultures, including some native american cultures. I believe it is a type of cross. My grandmother had a front porch baring this design in a medallion. My dad explaned that the emblem was there for many years before the Nazi's claimed it.

Actually you were correct, FelineF ... when you look at the block construction, it is Rail Fence blocks, not the similar one on your link. An interesting read though!

FelineF has given a good breakdown of the construction. Lots of blocks have "names" but when we break them down, they are the bringing together of other blocks.

A prime example ... a basic Irish Chain, is merely a 9P alternated with a square of fabric.

Thanks for the link feline fanatic. Very interesting. Wonderful hand quilting on this unfortunate quilt.

Here's another detail of note. The OP's quilt (which I believe is a Rail Fence variation) doesn't truly represent the Nazi swastika. Look at the example in the article and notice the center. It is a sleek cross. The quilt we are discussing has the correct "arms," but the center is "nested," which is completely different from the Nazi swastika. Feline Fanatic has pointed out the 5 x 5 vs. 6 x 6 layout difference, which creates the sleek vs. nested center.

I have also heard (but never researched) that the symbol we know as the swastika has ancient origins, most of them peaceful.

I hope your family can enjoy this treasure. I also agree that making a label for it would probably be wise.

Darren

Think I read somewhere that the original swastikas was a religious symbol?? Will look it up to see.[/URL]

Wish I could remember where, but I read that this design prior to WWII was used as a Peace and Love sign.

Very different.

To me, what is rather frustrating is that my MIL has quite a few beautiful quilts, which her mother made...she's got a Dresden Plate--lovely, with white background/pink sashing; a "stamp basket" quilt which is gorgeous--the colors are wonderful!; a couple of amazing crazy quilts; a double wedding ring....and who knows what else. And the only one she let us take was this 'nazi' quilt. :(

They are all just stored in a closet, except for the Dresden plate and the stamp basket.