Issue No. 1  February 2008

This past fall marked the inaugural Motor Coach Tour of the Quilt Trail. The tour left the Historic Jonesborough Visitor Center on Thursday October 18th. Participants enjoyed a day filled with history and fellowship.

 “I’ve enjoyed the comradely. My wife and I have driven up to take picture of the quilts, but then we just had to move on. Without this tour, you don’t get to learn the meaning behind the quilts or learn about the people involved unless you are very lucky.” said Bill Herron of Flagstaff, AZ.

The tour was so successful that it will become e an annual event. “This could become an economic engine for tourism.” said Roy Settle, Appalachian RC&D Coordinator. The Quilt Trail Motor Tour generated more than $4,000 to local business. Each quilt square is unique to the barn and the owners. “We try to incorporate the family’s history into each square.” said Kris Hinds, Appalachian RC&D.

The squares are painted onto the barn by children from area schools. “Kids can see their refrigerator art on public display.” said Settle.

A few local people have noticed the historic art. “I
saw the Knob Creek Museum develop over the past 30 years. My husband and I would drive by it every day.” Said Karen Foote of Johnson City, “It was fun to watch the quilt squares go up in our area and very pleasant to see what’s going on in our neighborhood.”

More bus tours are being organized right now.  If you are interested in more information, please contact Roy@arcd.org.