A Bats Life
Block Number: 128On the left, “A Bat’s Life”, Block #128, depicts not only the cavern’s features, but is commemorative of the Pipistrelle bat that may one day be extinct....
A Childs Heart
Block Number: 114The design consists of 12 children in various postures all holding hands and dressed in bright colors. The background is comprised of squares in 5 shades of blue and white, the school colors of the Bears (school mascot). The center of the Block is a heart shape, the children crisscrossing...
A-maze-ing Individuals
Block Number: 193Foothills Industries of McDowell County, Inc. is a manufacturing and Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) company located in Marion, N.C. They have been in operation since 1972 when they began with 3 staff members serving approximately 35consumers. Forty-four years later in 2016 they employ 50 employees serving...
A.R.B.O.R
Block Number: 55As you travel north at the intersection of 221 Business and Hankins Road, you will see one of the more recent McDowell Quilt Trail blocks mounted on the south-facing wall of Rhineharts Saw and Lawn Equipment building....
A.R.B.O.R
Block Number: 55As you travel north at the intersection of 221 Business and Hankins Road, you will see one of the more recent McDowell Quilt Trail blocks mounted on the south-facing wall of Rhineharts Saw and Lawn Equipment building....
Across the Ages: Our North Cove History
Block Number: 118Each corner of the block represents the history of the site. Going clockwise, the first square, upper left, displays various shapes and colors of Indian arrowheads recalling the original inhabitants of the area. The second square, upper right side of the block, depicts a log fort with a flag in...
Addies Sun Moon And Stars
Block Number: 226On May 17, 2917 Gail Ramsey hosted McDowell Quilt Trail Block #226 entitled “Addie’s Sun, Moon & Stars”. The block was installed by volunteers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Alan Scholl on the Stitch & Save Fabric Shop located on Highway 70 West, Marion, North Carolina....
Adopt Gods Kritters
Block Number: 93The McDowell Quilt Trail installed its 93rd block on July 8, 2011, by McDowell Quilt Trail volunteers Mike Lucas and Jack Raker at Kozy Kritters Inn & Doggie Day Care located at 3201 Old Highway 221 South in Glenwood. The hosts Susan and Rick Menard had a strong interest in...
Allisons Heart
Block Number: 162Early Tuesday morning August 5, 2014 Eunice Allison had no idea what was going on around her home as a pickup truck and other cars were coming up the driveway. Her children and friends had been keeping a surprise from her and she had no idea that she was about...
Alpine Meadow
Block Number: 182It was a beautiful summer Thursday morning August 27, 2015, that Gary and Jackie Jensen hosted Blocks #182 and #183 at the Switzerland Inn. Located at 86 High Ridge Road, Little Switzerland, N.C., the Jensens, owners of the family owned and run establishment were presented a Certificate of Authenticity...
American Sunset
Block Number: 138Danny and Dawn Plemmons had been looking forward to the day their quilt block would be installed and on August 23, 2013 “American Sunset” was attached to their lakeside camper located at 329 Moose Island Drive at the Marion Moose Lodge community at Lake James. Chairwoman Jill Lucas presented the...
Arrowheads
Block Number: 48“Arrowheads” proudly takes its place as the 48th block on the McDowell Quilt Trail. Quilt blocks are now being noticed throughout McDowell County largely due to the efforts of the McDowell Quilt Trail committee. Each quilt block pays honor to a special event or individual found in the rich tapestry...
Attic Window
Block Number: 106In September, 2011, while attending a McDowell Quilt Trail committee meeting at its studio in Historic McDowell House, Mike Lucas showed me two new 2x2-foot quilt blocks just completed in preparation for the Mountain Glory Festival. One block was the traditional “Attic Window” quilt pattern, in a design featuring a...
Barefoot Star
Block Number: 26As you travel out Old Highway 10, just before you reach Upton Landing Road, you will see a weathered old framed building with a cinder block foundation upon which hangs "Barfoot Star."...
Bear Paw
Block Number: 1On an old barn, facing west, sandwiched between Buck Creek and Lake Tahoma Road, you’ll find a sky blue Bear Paw quilt block, which sits on what was formerly the Bill Gibbs farm. This was the first block on the McDowell Quilt Trail....
Bebes Skyhawk
Block Number: 46The Ragaz home displaying the block was built in 1897 by Bebe’s great uncle, and has been passed down through the family for 113 years, with all intention of continuing that tradition. A rose bush planted in the early 1920’s still flourishes on the grounds....
Berry Healthful
Block Number: 78
On Tuesday last, the McDowell Quilt Trail installed its 78th block
at Marion Wellness & Disease Management, LLC, and headquarters for
Kathleen McNutt’s primary care medical practice. Kathleen has a Master
of Science in Nursing degree and is board certified as an adult nurse
practitioner. Dr. Eric Hart of Hickory...
Black White And Read All Over
Block Number: 223What’s black and white and read all over?
The answer to this time-honored riddle is, of course, a newspaper. And fittingly enough, it is also the title for The McDowell News’ quilt block, one of the last ones to be made and installed by the popular McDowell Quilt Trail program. The...
Blue Ridge Traveler
Block Number: 178The McDowell County Tourism Authority, which also serves as the county’s second Visitor Center located in Old Fort, hosted Block #178 entitled “Blue Ridge Traveler”. On Wednesday June 24th, 2015 Quilt Trail volunteers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Coy Gibson attached the block to the brick siding...
Blue Ridge Twilight
Block Number: 134The block is a 36 inch by 75.5 inch rectangle and was installed on the back side of the Barksdale’s camper by volunteer artist and builder Mike Lucas. Jill Lucas, Chairwoman of the McDowell Quilt Trail Committee of volunteers, presented the Certificate of Authenticity to the family. This block may...
Bluegrass Star
Block Number: 31Just as the musicians have maintained their cultural heritage by continuing to perform mountain music, so is McDowell Quilt Trail, by placing quilt blocks on barns and other buildings throughout the county, memorializing the traditional quilt patterns in the form of outdoor folk art....
Browns Bow Tie
Block Number: H 3The model for the quilt block pattern was chosen from a quilt made by Fred’s grandmother Sorrelda Brown. Elizabeth happened upon the quilt in an attic chest and thought it would be ideal to use as the Heritage Trail block design. The pattern “Bow Tie” is a traditional and popular...
Cannery Springs
Block Number: H 10The 6’ x 6’ block was installed on the diamond by volunteers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Alan Scholl. The bowl and pitcher are in shades of blue and white similar to those on the original quilt. The background is a tan and the four points of the border are...
Carolina Moose Tracks
Block Number: 142The two by four-foot block represents the three sections of our North Carolina Flag, with a blue vertical panel on the left, a red horizontal panel across the upper portion and corresponding white panel across the bottom. In the lower left are moose horns and face with moose tracks leading...
Carpenters Wheel
Block Number: 12Spencers Hardware block, called "Carpenters Wheel" hangs on the west-facing side of the building, and can be seen from some distance as one travels south on Hwy. 221. This block seems to change as you look at it. It takes on the characteristics of a hidden picture within a picture....
Cathedral Window
Block Number: 35On Saturday morning, May 29, 2010, the latest quilt block, No. 35, on the McDowell Quilt Trail was installed at the home of Pat and Joe Morris on Stacy Hill Road. Pat said she has often commented on the beautiful blocks going up in our area, and admired their colorful...
Cats
Block Number: 25Drs. John and Jennifer Owens, owners of Animal Hospital of Marion, made a conscious decision to move here from Montgomery, Alabama, operate a business, and make it their home. Jennifer says, “We love it and would never want to be anywhere else. We love the mountains and we are happy...
Celtic Star
Block Number: 197Diane Scheller is a master quilter and their home is filled with her beautiful quilts. This block, # 197, came from a block in one of her quilts. ...
Christmas Poinsettias
Block Number: 125Block #125 on the McDowell Quilt Trail, Christmas Poinsettias, may easily be viewed on the Nations’ home at 366 Wilkerson Way, just across from the Montford Cove Community Building. The 4’ X 4’ block is patterned after the quilt Marie made and the entire family squeezed in to pose for...
Circle Of Sweets
Block Number: 192The blocks name “Circle of Sweets” consists of twelve alternately spaced chocolate sprinkled and white glazed donuts. They encircle a steaming red, white and blue cup of coffee with white stars and a Chevy logo embellishing it. It represents Mr. Bob’s patriotism and love of the...
Claras Red Cross Of Service
Block Number: 38At 39 North Garden Street in Marion on Monday, June 28, the McDowell Quilt Trail installed the 38th block on its trail. This is the location of the Marion Branch of the Asheville Mountain Area Regional Chapter of the Red Cross....
Cooling It Down
Block Number: 66Bantam Chef restaurant owner Tony Panou is host of “Cooling It Down” and “Turning Up The Heat,” each representative of both the fast food restaurant and his personal hobbies. A separate Certificate of Authenticity for each block was presented by Jill Lucas....
Courthouse Square
Block Number: 34On Thursday, May 20, 2010, “Courthouse Square,” block No. 34, was installed on the County Administration Building on East Court Street. This block was donated to McDowell County by McDowell Quilt Trail in appreciation for the use of the McDowell House as a work studio. After the installation, The Certificate...
Covering McDowell County
Block Number: 101The 4 X 4 foot Quilt Block “Covering McDowell County” faces East on the front entrance of the WBRM Radio Station. The Dresden Plate pattern was first made in 1785 and became most popular during the 1920’s and 30’s. The popular and easily recognizable flower-like petals of color on a...
Crazy Patch
Block Number: 9The block was installed on October 12, 2009, and is representative of a crazy quilt handcrafted between 1861-1865 by Hannah Greenlee, a house servant for the Greenlee family. During the days of the War Between the States, the Underground Railroad was active through the very heart of McDowell County. Hannah...
Cross And Crown
Block Number: 98Designed and painted by Mike Lucas, the quilt block boldly displays the cross of Christ in three shades of blue-grey. At the intersection of the arms of the cross, a violet, four-point star holds squares of deep violet and yellow. Also at the intersection, and behind the cross, are deep-red...
Crossed Canoes
Block Number: 19Judy Sugg is the host of "Crossed Canoes," which was installed on her cabin by Mike Lucas on January 18, 2010. Judy loves the water and while living in Murphy enjoyed rafting on the Nantahala. Last summer she began kayaking on Lake James, and looks forward to another summer of...
Delectable Mountains
Block Number: 33When I decided to have a quilt block made for our cabin at the lake, I called my sisters and told them I wanted the quilt to be in memory of our mother, who passed away in 2000. They were thrilled, and so my husband and I began what would...
Deuteronomy 28:8 Blessed Obedience
Block Number: 220Richard and Beth Anderson became the newest hosts of a McDowell Quilt Trail block. The 4X4 foot block was installed by Mike Lucas and Alan Scholl on Friday April 14, 2017 on a barn behind their newly acquired home....
Diamonds And Gold
Block Number: 85Number 85, named “Diamonds and Gold” is emblematic of a ring. As one looks into this diamond design, your eyes are drawn to the very large two-tone blue facets, which is a variation of an Ozark crystal. There are four prominent flower-shaped facets depicted in a lighter blue at each...
Dont Flutter By
Block Number: 159Joanne Howle Realty became a part of the McDowell Quilt Trail on Friday morning, April 11, 2014 with the addition of Block #159 titled “Don’t Flutter By”. The block was mounted on the front wall of the business and pays tribute to Joanne Howle, who founded the realty company more...
Drunkards Path To Recovery
Block Number: 54Drunkards Path was one of several quilt pattern used by the Temperance Movement of the 19th and early 20th centuries, which encouraged moderation in the consumption of intoxicating liquors. During that time, women used this pattern to raise money to promote temperance. It was also used to express their feelings...
Duncan Stars
Block Number: H 4The pattern on the quilt inherited by the Duncan family, left by an unknown seamstress, is an interpretation of the star quilt pattern. Often referred to as the Lone Star quilt, one of the most popular since the 1800’s, it features eight-pointed stars in the design and may remind you...
East Rising
Block Number: 123The block, #123 on the McDowell Quilt Trail, sits on the diagonal and is easily seen from 676 State Street. The gradual variations of yellow and orange portray a sunrise and serve as the background to the eight black and white directional points of the compass. A drive through the...
Ecuador
Block Number: 110
Jim and Willie Williams, both native to McDowell County, are the
hosts of quilt block No. 110 they call “Ecuador.” Willie’s interest in
hosting a block was generated by her daughter-in-law Janet Williams, who
has been a member of the McDowell Quilt Trail committee from its
inception. However, after searching...
Family Memories
Block Number: H 5The star-patterned quilt was given to Jessie’s mama Hattie Tipton Revis and then handed down to Jessie. The quilt remains in excellent condition and is beautifully hand-stitched, each block with an eight point star in the middle. The original quilt has varied colors and Jessie chose the eye-catching red star...
Feeding Our Community
Block Number: 188Rebecca and Paul Dove, local owners of J.B.’s Market, are the hosts of two quilt blocks installed on the grocery store on November 3, 2015. The store is located at 1270 East Court Street, Marion, N.C. and quite well-known in the eastern part of McDowell County. Its history dates...
Feeding Our Souls
Block Number: 189Rebecca and Paul Dove, local owners of J.B.’s Market, are the hosts of two quilt blocks installed on the grocery store on November 3, 2015. The store is located at 1270 East Court Street, Marion, N.C. and quite well-known in the eastern part of McDowell County. Its history dates...
Feel The Roar
Block Number: 219On Friday April 14, 2017, Nebo Elementary School had its second block, #219, installed. The first, “A Child’s Heart”, (#114, 105 blocks later) was put up near the front entrance doors of the school back in April of 2012...
First Mayors House
Block Number: 42The 3x3 foot block first resembles a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. However, it actually contains a total of sixteen small houses, which signify the history of the house and the Rabbs profession of real estate. If you look closely you will see two upright houses at the bottom and...
Fish Tales
Block Number: 227On Wednesday May 31, 2017 the latest quilt block was installed on the front wall of the Hook & Anchor Family Seafood Restaurant by volunteer Mike Lucas. Gary and Tina Holmes acted as hosts and will receive the Certificate of Authenticity to display from Chairwoman Jill Lucas at a...
Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Block Number: 81On Monday afternoon, March 21, 2010, Mike Lucas installed the colorful 81st Quilt Block “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” on the home of Christy and Daniel Justice. Christy had been reading the various articles in the McDowell News and noticing the blocks around town. This sparked her interest and she...
Foothills Farming
Block Number: 22James Nations, President of McDowell Farm Bureau received permission from the board of directors to install a block on the north-facing end of the Farm Bureau Building, located at 21 Buncombe St., Marion, NC. James, speaking of the quilt trail project says, "I feel like this project is beautifying our...
Forever And A Day
Block Number: H 8At first glance it may appear as a single star, but there are actually two stars within the larger one, all of different hues and intricate designs. To further emphasize the harmony of colors they added details such as a double border around the square and accents on each of...
Futures Dawning
Block Number: 113Hosted by Joe and Kerry Davis and sponsored by the Joe Davis Financial Associates, Block #113 on the McDowell Trail is a whimsical interpretation of the Bulls and Bears stock market logo. With the aide of volunteers Mike and Jill Lucas, they utilized “image search” on the computer and decided...
Gateway To Knowledge
Block Number: 27The Friends of the Library donated Gateway To Knowledge as a way for the library to express its interest in folklore, take part in a community project and brighten the Logan Street entrance....
Glenwood Gold
Block Number: 144On Monday afternoon, October 14, 2013, the staff of Glenwood Family Medicine and officials of McDowell Hospital gathered to accept the McDowell Quilt Trail Certificate of Authenticity and admire the newly installed quilt block. “Glenwood Gold” is the second quilt block to be hosted by the McDowell Hospital, a member...
Glory Be
Block Number: 36Sue Gibbs stated that she chose the “Glory Be” pattern because she feels, ”You can’t be patriotic enough.” Her love of the American flag décor is obvious in other hangings and decorations in her yard, all of which feature an American flag theme....
Gods Glory
Block Number: 52Dr. M. Scott Hagaman, pastor, first became interested in the Quilt Trail when he saw a quilt block on a local business. After discussion with the deacons, the decision was made to approve proceeding to procure a block for the Church. He contacted church member Rose Wakefield, who teaches...
Good Morning World
Block Number: 163B;ock #163 on the McDowell Quilt Trail, is hosted by Robert Albury and Carol Short. Although their permanent home is in Florida, the couple is converting a two-car garage into a unique version of the new trend in housing options of minimal square footage. Carol came up with the idea...
Grandma
Block Number: 127The 3’ X 3’ block installed by volunteer painter Mike Lucas, sits diagonally on the right angle roof eave of a garage, now converted into an expansive woodworking shop downstairs and a paint and artist supply area for Helen upstairs. The dahlia-like flower in the middle of the block is...
Grandmothers Flower Garden
Block Number: H 12On Monday afternoon July 7, 2014 Everett and Rheubena Hardin hosted the twelfth block on the Rural Heritage Trail. The eye-catching 4-foot by 4-foot block was installed by volunteers Mike Lucas and Jack Raker on an old tobacco barn that is easily viewed at 5605 Highway 226 South. ...
Grandmothers Quilt
Block Number: 218The block's pattern is designed after that of a traditional one on a quilt made and gifted to the Darks from Edelweiss Dark (now deceased), but with a more contemporary feel....
Grist Mill
Block Number: 21The "Grist Mill" quilt block, chosen by Richard and Nora Worthen, hangs on Richard’s woodworking shop near their home in Brackett Town in southern McDowell County. The block was selected in memory of Nora’s paternal grandfather, John J. Sprouse, who owned and operated the Sprouse Grist Mill that at one...
Handcrafted
Block Number: 8The "Handcrafted" quilt block can be found above the entrance of the McDowell Arts Council (MACA) at 50 South Main Street in Marion. Internationally known wildlife artist and McDowell County resident Don Balke created MACA’s logo shortly after moving to the area in 1979....
Hands All Around
Block Number: 109Although the blue and gold colors of the school mascot, the Bulldogs, are included, the additional bright colors on the block are represented by the eight primary shades found in boxes of Crayola crayons, first introduced in 1903. They consisted of: black, blue, brown, green, orange, red, violet and yellow....
Harvest Time
Block Number: 59Each of the four corners of the 4’ x 4’ block has a design resembling a maple leaf, formed from trapezoids and triangles, in color tones of light green, orange, maroon and taupe. The center consists of a square, representing the restaurant, and is contained within two larger squares in...
Hatties Pride
Block Number: H 11acob’s Ladder is a popular Old Testament Bible patchwork design used for hundreds of years and a traditional all-time favorite with many variations. It was commonly chosen by women who read their Bibles each day, possibly on a long wagon wheel journey west or during the cold winter months when...
Home is Where the Heart Is
Block Number: 103“Home is Where the Heart Is,” a 4 X 4-foot block is located in the peak of the front entrance wall of the Hospice building. The block is quite detailed and colorful, edged in black with each of the four corners blocked in forest green, an image of a tree...
House Calls
Block Number: 58The medical bag Dr. Ragaz first used, which is still in existence, inspired the design. Eight bags are portrayed in black and brown around a white hexagon. Mike Lucas, using actual photos of the bag and computer aides, designed the block using a background of a hexagon in white with...
Howling Dog Moon
Block Number: 173Janet Bertinuson and Bridget Dunford, owners of the Howling Dog Farm in Nebo and home of the Belle Nicho Winery, hosted Quilt Block #173 on Saturday, February 28, 2015. Janet, retired as Superintendent of The Federal Training Academy and Bridget, retired as Head of the Physical Therapy Department at...
Howling Dog Moon
Block Number: 173Janet Bertinuson and Bridget Dunford, owners of the Howling Dog Farm in Nebo and home of the Belle Nicho Winery, hosted Quilt Block #173 on Saturday, February 28, 2015. Janet, retired as Superintendent of The Federal Training Academy and Bridget, retired as Head of the Physical Therapy Department at...
If You Dont Go You Dont See
Block Number: 187On Wednesday afternoon, October 14, 2015, the McDowell Quilt Trail committee met its goal for the year with the installation of Block #187, installed by volunteers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Alan Scholl. The colorful six by six foot hand-painted wooden panel is located above the Roseland Florist building...
Independent Spirit
Block Number: 70The 4x4 foot block named “Independent Spirit” depicts a bald eagle with wings outstretched, as if landing over blue water with rolling hills in earth tone colors, and mountains in shades of blue and gray. Marshall Dark points out the Independent Insurance Agent’s logo that is located on each side...
John Rabb Family Crest
Block Number: 61McDowell Quilt Trail donated a quilt block to Historic Carson House to
raffle at its fundraiser at Spring House Farms in the spring of this
year.
Sandi Rabb, a member of the Historic Carson House board,
and committee chair of the Historic Carson House gift shop won the
raffle and chose...
Journeys Remembered
Block Number: 75Joy Woody, office manager, says she became aware of the quilt trail by seeing blocks popping up on buildings around town and thought a quilt block would be a nice addition to Blue Ridge Monuments. Greg Daniels, owner, thought so, too, and the process was set in motion. Joy worked...
Keeping Life Connected
Block Number: 86Host to the third block at 91 East Court Street is Computer Corrections, owned by Stephen Duncan. This business deals in networking, repairs, sales, system maintenance, and upgrades. Block number 86 has been named “Keeping Life Connected.”...
Lady Of The Lake
Block Number: 16"The Lady of the Lake" quilt block is an antique geometric quilt design dating back to the 1850s. It was reproduced in the Nancy Cabot quilt column in the Chicago Daily Tribune on June 17, 1933 saying that it celebrates Sir Walter Scott’s poem, LADY OF THE LAKE, first published...
Leahs Trees
Block Number: H 13Lucille Burnette is the host of the 13th block on the Rural Heritage Trail which is funded through grants from the McDowell Quilt Trail. The block is in memory and honor of her mother-in-law Leah Ricketts Burnette and is patterned after one of her favorite quilts she made years ago....
Learn Discover Grow
Block Number: 68Dean and Linda Stevens own the day care center and have done so since February 2001. Holly Huffman, as director, oversees the activities and keeps an eye on the minute-by-minute happenings. Prior to 2001 the center was known as Proverbs 2:6. Maybe you will remember seeing that sign in front...
Life of Service
Block Number: 228On Wednesday, May 31, 2017, Terry and Vicki Deposter hosted the 228th block on the McDowell Quilt Trail. Of the many quilt blocks scattered throughout the county, each with its own story, this 2 X 3 foot block is entitled “Life of Service” for good reason. ...
Lighthouse to the World
Block Number: 111Each of the four corners of the block have a yellow and gold structure representing a lighthouse with white rays of light radiating from the center on each side. Boys and girls of all cultures and skin pigments are united hand to hand dressed in bright clothing on a background...
LINC to Our Past Present and Future
Block Number: 112The design and colors of the block were discussed and voted upon by the program participants, including input from the College and Chamber. It represents Lake James in the foreground, bordered by mountains and a sky of blue with white clouds in the background. The mountains, in various shades of...
Lions Senior Stars
Block Number: 83The 4 X 4 block consists of a cascading curve of five six-pointed stars in various fading shades of blue-purple. The largest star is in the foreground and is the darkest blue, each succeeding star a lighter shade. The midnight black background is highlighted with comet-like points in radiating shades...
Little Doc
Block Number: 184Jeff and Sarah Domingus are the latest hosts of a quilt block on their home on Monte Vista Drive, in Marion. The block is in honor of the medical field as well as in memory of Archie N. McIntosh, M.D. Jeff is a graduate of the College...
Little Dutch Girl
Block Number: 30Ray and Pat Arrowood of Brackett Town are the hosts of “Little Dutch Girl”. Installed on April 23, 2010, this 3x3 block hangs on the east-facing wall of Ray and Pat’s workshop....
Log Cabin
Block Number: 100Log Cabin features the geometric pattern found in the dovetail construction of a log cabin once so common throughout the Southern Appalachians. The block pattern itself was chosen by members of the Museum staff and features a color scheme of earth tone colors in a repeating format....
Love For Learning For Life
Block Number: 132Love For Learning For Life is a 4 x 4 foot block is set on the diamond and brightens up the school entrance. Installed by volunteers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Alan Scholl the block depicts a school house with children outside and the well known Old Fort Arrowhead monument...
Mallard Cove
Block Number: 82The 4 X 4 block sits back in one of the multitude of inlets and coves around the lake, angled catercorner. It faces north toward the open lake waters with a panoramic view of Shortoff Mountain and the tip of Table Rock....
Maple Leaves
Block Number: H 7The block, #H-7, portrays a cluster of Maple leaves as they change color through the seasons in each of the four corners. Clockwise, the upper left corner is in shades of red, the next three corners in shades green, yellow and orange. The traditional nature-related theme with its vibrant colors...
Margies Carnation
Block Number: 174Mike and Marie Hobbs of the Glenwood community are the hosts of the newest block on the McDowell Quilt Trail. The block is in memory and honor of John’s mother Margie Hobbs who loved nature, gardening and all outdoors. She was also a prolific quilter and the pattern...
Mariners Compass
Block Number: 94The block was an April birthday present from her daughters, Debi Wilkerson and Shannah Gorecki. Their husbands, Jamie Wilkerson and Jake Gorecki, are active in the Nebo Fire Department. Having seen the different quilt blocks around the county, Barbara had commented to the girls that she would like one...
Midnight Sun
Block Number: 43Taproot Farm is a horse-centered farm with riding lessons, clinics, and boarding offered in a quiet setting next to the slow-moving Crooked Creek; therefore, it seemd appropriate to the Rozells to plan for a horse-featured quilt block. The Rozells searched countless patterns for their quilt block, but after a long...
Mighty Monteith Moose
Block Number: 121Mighty Monteith Moose, #121, is 3’ X 3’ and is located at 99 Horseshoe Loop at the Moose Lodge. It depicts the head and full rack of a moose, with the lake, mountains and colorful skyline in the background. The name of the block is in memory of the Reel’s...
Moon Over the Mountain
Block Number: 41This brightly colored block is on their boathouse on Lake Tahoma Road. Special care was taken to divide the block so it would slide open with the doors on the building....
My Blue Heaven
Block Number: 44The Balich home sits on a hill with beautiful vistas, including Mt. Mitchell and Shortoff. The Baliches are extremely pleased with the outcome of their block design. It represents perfectly the view they enjoy daily from their home of trees, water, mountains and sky, including the evening sunsets. Linda likes...
Natures Love
Block Number: 190Sandra and David Setzer of 674 Goose Creek Road, Marion, N.C. are the most recent hosts on the McDowell Quilt Trail with the installation of Block #190. Volunteer installers Mike Lucas, Jack Raker and Alan Scholl mounted the block on Tuesday morning, December 1, 2015....
New Beginnings
Block Number: 91The block, entitled “New Beginnings” sits to the left of the main entrance to the Barn House Inn, a bed and breakfast owned and operated by the Butlers, and was placed by Mike Lucas and Jack Raker. The barn-structured Inn sits at the base of Cat Knob Mountain, named years...
New Star Of North Carolina
Block Number: 20The "New Star of North Carolina" is now shining over Bruce’s Fabulous Foods on Main Street in Marion. Bruce and Barbara Brown are the hosts of the 20th quilt block that the McDowell Quilt Trail installed on Tuesday morning, January 26, 2010....
Northwind
Block Number: 2AThis block adorns a red barn on a grassy knoll with the blue sky and mountains as a backdrop on the property of Mike and Jill Lucas. They chose "North Wind" because the wind just howls at our home in the winter, and nothing could better describe ourplace." They chose...
Ohio Star
Block Number: 145Keeley Duckworth, Director of Marketing of the McDowell Hospital, announced that the hospital is hosting four quilt blocks on the McDowell Quilt Trail. The McDowell Hospital at the time was an affiliate of the Mission Health System based at Mission Hospital in Asheville, N.C....
Our Family Serving Your Family
Block Number: 97Recently the McDowell County Rescue Squad joined the ever-growing McDowell Quilt Trail by having a quilt block created for their headquarters building at 200 State Street, which they named “Our Family Serving Your Family.” Members of the Rescue Squad selected the design and color scheme of the quilt block themselves....
Pathway To Natural Healing
Block Number: 80On a rainy Tuesday afternoon, March 15th, 2011, Mike Lucas and Jack Raker installed the newest addition, block No. 80 on the McDowell Quilt Trail, on the North wall of the Blue Ridge Chiropractic Clinic. Jill Lucas presented the Certificate of Authenticity to Dr. William B. Bell and his wife...
Pickin and Grinnin
Block Number: 17The Killoughs chose an 8 foot by 8 foot block, which pictures four guitars and four banjos in an alternating orientation, resting on a plate of beige color over a background of blue, with red picks in the four corners. “We were looking for colors that would work well on...
Pieced Together With Love
Block Number: 107Block #107 of the McDowell Quilt Trail is quite an interesting block of bright and cheerful colors, and akin to its name, “Pieced Together With Love,” represents a puzzle with its different, unique pieces. The 3’X3’ block faces South and was painted and installed on point by volunteer Mike Lucas....
Pinwheel Magic
Block Number: 79The waters of Lake James draw folks to its shores and campgrounds. One such couple come often to relax in their cabin at Bear Cliff Campground, enjoy Lake James, and visit Western North Carolina. While touring through the mountains, they began to notice the beautiful quilt blocks on barns and...
Planting the Seeds of Knowledge
Block Number: 76Glenwood Elementary School is host to two quilt blocks, numbers 76 and 77 on the McDowell Quilt Trail. As one travels south on Old US 221, at the crest of the hill, just as the school comes into view, look closely to either end of the building, and first you...
Planting the Seeds of Knowledge
Block Number: 76Glenwood Elementary School is host to two quilt blocks, numbers 76 and 77 on the McDowell Quilt Trail. As one travels south on Old US 221, at the crest of the hill, just as the school comes into view, look closely to either end of the building, and first you...
Por El Amor De Rose (For The Love Of Rose)
Block Number: 95The name and colors of the block were chosen in honor and memory of Rose Marie Kuhl, a former employee of over 8 years. Rose, a bi-lingual co-worker who resided in Spindale, Rutherfordton County, tragically lost her life in recent weeks due to a domestic violence incident. She is described...
Prissys Pepper Patch
Block Number: 120Block #120, “Prissy’s Pepper Patch was installed on the home of the Reel’s at 287 Oak Hill Drive. The 4’ X 4’ block is quite colorful and eye-catching, the center incorporating three chili peppers in yellow, red and green. The heat of the peppers is emphasized with its southwestern zigzag...
Progress-The Next Step
Block Number: 126The establishment of the Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League (also known as A3L) began a little over two years ago and obtaining its goals has been a step-by-step realization. Artists in the area organized the first step and procured the incorporation of the League, a North Carolina non-profit corporation....
Railroad Crossing
Block Number: 11The Depot square represents the railroad crossing symbol with hunter green, black, red, slate blue and yellow colors. The red blocks represent the bricks donated and displayed in the front of the building; it also blends with the red caboose and red roof: Of course, the green blends with the...
Recline-Relax-Restore
Block Number: 183It was a beautiful summer Thursday morning August 27, 2015, that Gary and Jackie Jensen hosted Blocks #182 and #183 at the Switzerland Inn. Located at 86 High Ridge Road, Little Switzerland, N.C., the Jensens, owners of the family owned and run establishment were presented a Certificate of Authenticity...
Ringing Today For the Success of Our Children Tomorrow
Block Number: 122The 3.5’ X 3.5’ wooden quilt block, installed by volunteers Mike Lucas and Jack Raker, features the school colors of gold and blue and is easily viewed centered over the front entrance of Pleasant Gardens Elementary located at 100 John Roach Drive off of Highway 70 East. The bell is...
Rockin Shears
Block Number: 89Next door to Fire and Ice Jewelry is Hair That Rocks, a hair salon owned by Denise Nederostek, Frank’s wife, who has been a hairdresser for 30 years. The block Denise selected, number 89, is named “Rockin’ Shears,” which depicts a circle of cutting shears framed by a light blue...
Safe in the Sun Thanks to One
Block Number: 45The flying, birds in colors of blue and white, depict the seven individual members of the Byrd family. The birds flying toward Heaven individually and collectively depict the family’s religious beliefs as a Christian family....
Sail On
Block Number: 172Sibyl Byrd joined the McDowell Quilt Trail recently with the installation of block #172. The 3 foot by 3 foot block was installed by volunteer Mike Lucas on the rear balcony porch area of the home located at 2721 Hemlock Court, Nebo, N.C. ...
Scales Of Justice
Block Number: 18After thawing out with a hot lunch on Thursday, January 7, 2010 at Bruce’s Fabulous Foods, the quilt trail committee continued its work in the cold on North Main Street by installing the "Scales Of Justice" on the front of the building for the law office of Mayor Steve Little....
School Houses Of McDowell
Block Number: 154When Interim Superintendant Mark Garrett first came to McDowell County to serve our school system, he was intrigued by the many picturesque quilt blocks adding charming accents to the various buildings in and around his new surroundings. Soon he discovered that one by one over the past few years the...
Scissorshands Star
Block Number: 102The 3 X 3 foot Block, #102 on the Trail, is suspended from an inside window of the Nu Wave Hair Salon located in the WalMart Shopping Center on Highway 70 West, and is viewable from those passing by the business outside and by those clients inside. Nu Wave Hair...
Scrap Quilt
Block Number: H 1“Scrap Quilt” is the first such quilt block to be placed on the Rural Heritage Quilt Trail, and it can be found at the intersection of Old Highway 221 South and Glenwood Baptist Church Road on what was once the feed shed just behind the Reid Holland General Store and...
Serving McDowell Seniors From the Heart
Block Number: 116Within the patchwork replica map of McDowell is the embellishment of a red heart on a background of white placed approximately where Marion is located. The block is placed on the diagonal, shades of green fields leading to shades of blue mountains, a background of bright yellow highlighting the many...
Serving McDowell Seniors From the Heart
Block Number: 116Within the patchwork replica map of McDowell is the embellishment of a red heart on a background of white placed approximately where Marion is located. The block is placed on the diagonal, shades of green fields leading to shades of blue mountains, a background of bright yellow highlighting the many...
Shadow Star
Block Number: 10Approaching Marion from the southern end of Main Street, you notice first the smaller geometric star in shades of gold and burgundy, then you notice the shadow star, which seems to pop out in three-dimension from the dark green background. The entire block is framed in black, and some say...
Shooting Star
Block Number: 15A 3x3 foot block painted in the primary colors of red, yellow and blue, and can only be seen from the water. In the summertime when the pine trees, magnolias, and dogwoods are in full foliage, everything behind the block will be green....
Sol Of South Creek Vineyards
Block Number: H 9The block Sol of South Creek Vineyards is a modified sunburst pattern with the focus being a cluster of grapes in the center. The name Sol (sun) is symbolic of the importance of the natural sunlight getting through the vineyard canopies to produce a superior end product and yield. The...
Sol Of South Creek Vineyards
Block Number: H 9The block Sol of South Creek Vineyards is a modified sunburst pattern with the focus being a cluster of grapes in the center. The name Sol (sun) is symbolic of the importance of the natural sunlight getting through the vineyard canopies to produce a superior end product and yield. The...
Southern Comfort
Block Number: 105The plate sits on a ”Four Square Patch” pattern of alternating light green and tan colors. In each of the four squares is the traditional “Cup and Saucer” pattern. A miniature decoration of the Corn and Bean pattern on each cup compliments the center of the plate. Be sure to...
Southern Rail
Block Number: 146A large group of staff and hospital leadership were present Wednesday, October 30, 2013 at the Old Fort Primary Care and Family Practice building to admire the display of the newly installed quilt block. Drs. Lindsay Herbert and Rachel Elizabeth Click accepted the McDowell Quilt Block Trail Certificate of Authenticity....
Spirit Mind and Body
Block Number: 87On Tuesday, June 7, 2011, Block #87 on the McDowell Quilt Trail was
installed at 2:00 p.m. at the Maxwell M. Corpening Jr. YMCA. The
theme of the 6’ x 6’ Block is “Spirit, Mind and Body.”
...
Spring House Thistle
Block Number: 13Traveling up an extended driveway off the main road through a beautiful sylvan area, you will find "Spring House Thistle” quilt block hanging on the southwest-facing end of the almost 200-year-old springhouse....
Square And Compass
Block Number: 133The block faces south on the Mystic Tie Masonic Lodge building and is easily seen when entering town. The design of the block featuring the traditional square and compass is surrounded by shapes and patterns that each has a very specific meaning and significance to the Masons. The customary colors...
Stacks of Memories
Block Number: 37Since the credit union was first established for the employees of the Marion Manufacturing Company, Amy Johnson, manager, and Renee Whitson, assistant manager, of Cornerstone Credit Union, collaborated on the name and design for the quilt block. They chose the name, “Stacks of Memories,” with the knowledge that the old...
Starbright
Block Number: 158On Friday, March 28, 2014, Cheryl and Jean Perusse became hosts to “Starbright”, Block #158 on the McDowell Quilt Trail. The block was positioned on their home, mounted on the diamond by volunteers Mike Lucas and Jack Raker. Cheryl is a retired Registered Nurse and her husband is a handy-man...
Starburst
Block Number: H 2As you travel west on Interstate 40 past Marion take exit 75, Parker Padgett Road, and turn right onto Greenlee Road. Continue for a couple of miles and you will round a curve. Right in front of you, just to the side of the road, sits a red-roofed barn...
Stephens Blazing Star
Block Number: 164On Monday, September 8, 2014, Steve and Gail Miller joined the McDowell Quilt Trail with the installation of not one, but two quilt blocks: "Stephens' Blazing Star" and "Freedom's Flight". ...
Sunburst
Block Number: 171“Sunburst” is block #171 on the McDowell Quilt Trail, hosted by Angela Smith and her grandmother, Lorraine Smith. The installation is in memory and honor of Mary Elizabeth Lester, Angela’s great-great grandmother (Lorraine's grandmother) who made the original quilt the block is patterned after. Mrs. Lester who made...
Symbols of Our Faith
Block Number: 119
This beautiful block, mounted on point (diagonally) features a white
dogwood flower in the middle on a background of green surrounded by a
purple border, representing royalty. The legend of the dogwood is that
the tree was once tall and broad, making it the chosen wood to construct
crosses. After...
Tall Ships of 76
Block Number: 32This 4x4 block, No. 32, was installed on the railing that leads to the boat dock belonging to Graham and JoAnne Stewart in the Mallard Cove area, a beautiful location on the Burke County side of Lake James. ...
Teaching and Learning Hand in Hand
Block Number: 73Upon entering the school grounds at 346 McDowell High School Road, the first indication you see of school pride is the granite sign proclaiming West McDowell Jr. High School, home of the Spartans. As you turn into the driveway, the expansive South lot wall of the building looms in front...
The Angry Bee At Mikells Farm Honey
Block Number: 225Doug and Sharry Mikell are North Carolina Certified Beekeepers residing in Old Fort bordering on the Pisgah National Forest. On May 5, 2017 a 2 x 2 foot quilt block was installed on their home by volunteer Mike Lucas and they were presented a Certificate of Authenticity by Chairwoman...
The Bridge Of Faith
Block Number: 150On Friday, December 20, 2013, volunteers Mike Lucas and Alan Scholl installed a four by four foot quilt block on the building of Kirksey Funeral Home and Crematory located in downtown Marion. The block, entitled “The Bridge of Faith”, is the 150th on the McDowell Quilt Trail....
The Circle Saw
Block Number: 5The front upstairs windows share space with two circular saw-styled quilt blocks, chosen to complement the building for their aesthetic beauty and to draw attention to the woodworking shop below....
The Circular Saw
Block Number: 6The front upstairs windows share space with two circular saw-styled quilt blocks, chosen to complement the building for their aesthetic beauty and to draw attention to the woodworking shop below....
The Dove
Block Number: 7The quilt block depicts four doves converging from four directions, with three doves in graduated shades of blue, and a white dove descending from above into a splash of golden sunlight onto a background of darker blue....
The Heart Of Education
Block Number: 153The Panthers of West Marion Elementary School “roared” with pride when Quilt Block #153 “The Heart of Education” was installed on the front entrance of their school January 15, 2014. Last but not least, West Marion is the twelfth and final school in our county to be a part of...
The Life Cycle
Block Number: 155On Thursday, April 3, 2014, McDowell Ob/Gyn and McDowell Internal Medicine became a part of the McDowell Quilt trail with the installation of Block #155 entitled “The Life Cycle”....
The Morning Star
Block Number: 23The Inn on Mill Creek in Old Fort has two new quilt blocks that were installed by the McDowell Quilt Trail on February 27, 2010. Dave and Brigette Walters, owners and innkeepers of the Inn on Mill Creek, which is located on private land within the Pisgah National Forest near...
The Parkins Point
Block Number: 74This is a story of two families in McDowell County who experienced the spirit of Christmas through the joy of giving and the joy of receiving on Christmas Day 2010....
The Path of Faith
Block Number: H 14On Friday, August 12, 2016, the McDowell Quilt Trail placed its fourteenth heritage block on the barn front of Betty and Joe Kaylor. The block represents Betty’s rich heritage and the homestead she grew up on....
The Whole Child
Block Number: 156McDowell Pediatrics is the latest of McDowell Hospital’s clinics to join the McDowell Quilt Trail. On Tuesday, March 3, 2014 Block #156 entitled “The Whole Child” was installed on the office building located at 387 U.S. Highway 70 West by volunteers Mike Lucas and Jack Raker. The Certificate of Authenticity...
Titan Star
Block Number: 63As summarized by retired history teacher Wayne L. Greene, the Titan emblem’s large size and intricate, ornate details resulted in a simpler red “block style ‘T’ being primarily used on athletic helmets and yearbooks until 1979.” After consolidation of the six schools, other than this crimson “T,” no symbol was...
To Every Thing There Is a Season
Block Number: H 6The 8’ X 8’ block was installed September 22, 2012 (the first day of Fall) on an old barn located in the Glenwood community on the left side of Highway 221 South just past Goose Creek Road. The structure is owned by Charles and Emma Jean England, who reside just...
Tree of Life
Block Number: 104Sara’s Tree of Life begins with the first branch on the left of the tree, representing her younger twin sisters Ruth and Ruby, one of whom died at birth. The second branch represents herself, a widow for 43 years, and her late husband Bart. Branch three portrays her sister Edith...
Trip Around The World
Block Number: 57“Trip Around the World,” was chosen by the group to highlight the fact that reading is indeed a journey, to places near and far, to time past, present, or future. The basic primary color scheme was chosen to add an eye-catching appeal to the blocks....
Turning Up the Heat
Block Number: 67Bantam Chef restaurant owner Tony Panou is host of “Cooling It Down” and “Turning Up The Heat,” each representative of both the fast food restaurant and his personal hobbies. A separate Certificate of Authenticity for each block was presented by Jill Lucas....
Underground Rainbow
Block Number: 129The block on the right, “Underground Rainbow”, #129 represents the blind trout and stream that brought about the initial discovery of the caverns....
Unfolding Friendship Star
Block Number: 51This Visitor Center site is formally known as the McDowell Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center located on the US 221 Bypass on the western side of Marion. The Visitor Center was created to adjoin the Department of Transportation rest area, and was constructed simultaneously with the construction of the US...
Vintage Stars
Block Number: 65
If you happen to be waiting at the stoplight on the corner at West
Court Street and Logan Street in Marion, look up to the southwest and
you will see Quilt Block No. 65 on the McDowell Quilt Trail. This block
is named in honor of two young children, Cameran...
Virginias Quilt
Block Number: 148Charlene and Gene Hollifield are the hosts of the 148th block on the McDowell Quilt Trail. On Saturday, November 23, 2013 Chairwoman Jill Lucas presented them with the Certificate of Authenticity for their quilt block entitled “Virginia’s Quilt” which is displayed on an outbuilding adjacent to their home at 143...
Where Main Street Meets The Mountain
Block Number: 3The blocks design was inspired by the City of Marions logo created as part of a marketing initiative to promote downtown as a destination.The blocks border represents “Main Street” and the three blue mountains in the forefront represent “the Mountains”. The three shades of blue are representative of the colors...
Whitehouse
Block Number: 222David and Kerrie Hillman are the hosts of Block #222 on the McDowell Quilt Trail named “Whitehouse” after a farm that has been in their family since the 1840’s. The farmhouse was originally built by a doctor in 1816 whose office was upstairs and the family’s living quarters were...
Willies Touch
Block Number: 39The quilt block, “Willie’s Touch,” actually refers to a quilt made by Mrs. Gillespie in the 1980s, and is currently in the possession of her grandson Marc Tipton of Old Fort. The quilt block features a light blue background with nine blocks each with vibrant red or yellow flowers. Mr....
Work and Play
Block Number: 29On April 15, 2010 “Work and Play” (block #29) was placed on the home of Susie Sweet and Gwen Straub in Nebo. Look closely and you will see paintbrushes and golf tees, which is the story they wish to tell: their love of art and the game of golf. Susie...
Your Home
Block Number: 54The installation of “Your Home” on the east-facing wall of the brick structure was completed under the watchful eye of one resident of Rose Hill, Mr. Dewey Arrowood, 90, formerly of the Brackett Town community, who recalled the building when it was the former Marion General Hospital from 1952 until...
Your Home
Block Number: 54The installation of “Your Home” on the east-facing wall of the brick structure was completed under the watchful eye of one resident of Rose Hill, Mr. Dewey Arrowood, 90, formerly of the Brackett Town community, who recalled the building when it was the former Marion General Hospital from 1952 until...
Ziegler Family Crest
Block Number: 60There was much deliberation about using something Scottish and something Swiss to depict their countries of origin in the quilt block design, but ultimately decided to use the Ziegler coat of arms, which proudly hangs on the front of the Ziegler residence....