Loretto celebrates the art of quilting

In early August, the Loretto Heritage Center showcased the rich quilting tradition of the Central Kentucky region. Angela Selter, Heritage Center archival assistant, shares, “The final result was a stunning collection featuring 45 quilts from 21-plus regional quilt makers; several quilts were created by many hands. Additionally, nine quilts were added from Loretto’s collection. The show was a truly rich and colorful experience.” The photos of these beautiful quilts were taken by Angela, except as noted.

Nancy Miles, who was involved in creating Loretto’s barn quilt back in 2009, and husband, Donnie, helped make the show a grand success, Angela says, providing quilts and quilt stands, creative ideas and hard work. They even helped install the exhibit. Angela writes, “Nancy introduced us to her quilting group, which then led us to another quilting group in the county, and from there the show entries started rolling in until we had enough to fill all available rooms.” Thank you to Nancy and Donnie and to the Motherhouse maintenance staff, whose help was invaluable.

Loretto Motherhouse is on the Barn Quilt Trail

Loretto’s painted barn quilt was installed in 2009, one of 66 in Marion County, Ky., and part of the Kentucky Clothesline of Quilts Trail. (See the cover of this issue to see how it looks today.) In a 2009 article by quilter Susan Swain SL, she described the county’s barn quilts, “The quilt squares are easily seen as one rounds the many curves on the rural Kentucky roads. The quilt square that is chosen has meaning for the family or community where it is displayed.” A map showing the quilts on the trail is available on the Lebanon, Ky., website. One day perhaps you’ll find yourself following the Quilt Trail to Loretto Motherhouse!

Read about the historical research, creation and upkeep of Loretto’s barn quilt in a fascinating article by Anndavid Naeger SL here.

To read all of the articles in the fall 2025 issue click here.