I have finally finished my book after years of compiling information about Canada’s centennial quilts and trying to organize it all.
The 269-page softcover book features around 85 quilts from across Canada, including local county museums. It provides detailed information about the period leading up to the Centennial year, highlighting Canadian women’s patriotism from 1867 to 1967 through their dedication to family, craft, and country.
It brings to life the vibrant stories and heartfelt efforts of Canadian women during a pivotal time in the nation’s history. Each quilt featured in the book speaks to the artistry and dedication of these women, illustrating a deep connection to their heritage and their unwavering patriotism.
The book offers a rich tapestry of narratives, insights, and stunning visuals that celebrate the enduring spirit of Canada. This collection not only showcases the beauty of quilt-making but also serves as a tribute to the resilience and creativity of Canadian women who have contributed so profoundly to our cultural fabric.
Author Judy Lyons with Canada’s Forgotten Artifacts: 1967 Centennial Quilts.
But, you should know who I am and why I put this all together. So, I will tell you about myself.
I live in Burlington, ON, and I am a Canadian certified quilt appraiser with the American Quilters Society, although Canada has no certifying body for this specialty. I focus on collecting and writing about Canadian quilts.
I started appraising since 1999. This involves the examination, photographing, and learning of quilt stories from owners. The appraisal process remains confidential with details only shared with the owner’s permission.
To appraise quilts effectively, one must understand quilt history, styles, trends, fashion, and fabrics. Familiarity with Canada’s history—including royalty; provincial, national, and political events; wartime histories; and special anniversaries—also helps, as it is often reflected in quilts. In other words, know your local history.
Since 1967, I have gathered everything I could. I’ve collected unwanted centennial quilts. I knew I would write about this overlooked period in Canadian quilt history.
1967 Centennial Emblems and Other Symbols made by Trude Roque, Hamilton, ON. Owned by Judy Lyons. This quilts shows many techniques and emblems used during this time. (See page 171 of the book.)
In 2017, numerous centennial quilts came out of storage, along with new quilts created for the sesquicentennial year. I photographed many of these quilts and reached out to several individuals to share their quilts with me. All this led to the creation of my book.
The quilts come from various regions across Canada, and include some museum pieces. Notably, some of the quilts began in 1967 and ended in 2017.
The text discusses the events during this period. In 1958, then Prime Minister Diefenbaker initiated a call to create something significant to commemorate Canada’s history. It also covers the patterns, techniques used, and some of the local businesses that participated.
If you are interested in more information about quilts created in this time period, please feel free to reach out and purchase a book. I look forward to hearing from you.
This quilt, used for the spine of the book, was made with an AccuQuilt cutter. It’s not a product of the 1960s, but a modern tool that saves time and ensures accurate fabric cuts. I appreciated the signature block and used my collection of period reproduction fabrics. Created during COVID, it was a period of global shutdown, and sewing provided solace. I made around 30 quilt tops, sent them to longarm quilter friends then gave each finished quilt to a family member.
To purchase a copy of Canada’s Forgotten Artifacts: 1967 Centennial Quilts, please email Judy Lyons directly. It costs $45 CDN, plus shipping and handling if required.
