When Winchester Center quilter, MaryPat Leger, saw the Sacramento River Quilt, she envisioned a similar work of art extolling the remarkable values of the Farmington River. Her inspiration brought together 24 quilt artists. Some nationally recognized, some making their first landscape quilt. Together they created The Farmington River Quilt Project, which portrays 25 locations on the Wild & Scenic section from the Goodwin Dam in Colebrook, CT to the Rainbow City Pool in Canton, CT. The 50 foot long quilt comprised of these 25 sections each measuring 24” x 21”. Each quilter worked independently using his or her own creative expression to depict a specific location. Quilters were required to meet the river’s entry and exit dimensions of the adjoining quilt, enabling the river to flow with the continuity through the entire 50 feet.
The U.S. Congress created the Wild & Scenic section of the Farmington River in 1994. It flows through the Connecticut towns of Colebrook, Hartland, Barkhamsted, New Hartford and Canton. This quilt celebrates the outstanding resources of the Wild & Scenic section. The quilt was supported with a grant and site information from the Farmington River Coordinating Committee.
As this quilt is displayed in various venues we hope that it will be enjoyed as a fine work of art and also promote the long-term protection of our river resources.
Roger Behrens, FRCC Chair
