As autumn descends upon Carroll County, the vibrant hues of changing leaves beckon visitors to explore the region’s scenic landscapes. Among the highlights of this picturesque setting are the barn quilts that dot the countryside, each telling a unique story and celebrating the area’s rich agricultural heritage. These striking 8-foot square block designs, mounted prominently on barns, serve as a canvas for personal narratives and familial symbolism.
The Barn Quilt Trail project, established in 2013, is a collaborative initiative involving the Carroll County Arts Council, the Carroll County Office of Tourism, the Carroll County Department of Recreation, and the Carroll County Library. This project provides a map of quilt locations, offering sightseers not only directions but also a wealth of information about each design. The Barn Quilt Trail received the Maryland Travel and Tourism Best Product award at the Maryland Tourism and Travel Summit in 2018, highlighting its significance in promoting local culture.
Many farmers who host these quilts view them as a tribute to the generational legacies of their farms. At the Dell Brothers/MD-Delight Farms in Westminster, the quilt displayed is modeled after a 56-year-old family marriage quilt. The Dell family, including Cristal and Gary Dell, appreciates how these quilts allow visitors to develop a deeper understanding of local agriculture. “It just shows part of history,” Crystal Dell remarked. “It gets people to travel throughout the county and look for the quilt patches.”
In Uniontown, Lucinda Sebastian has showcased the Sunflower Quilt at her farm stand for over a decade. This quilt beautifies the entrance of her historic family farm, which produces fruits, vegetables, honey, and candles. “I have noticed that the fall brings more visitors to my quilt and farm stand,” Sebastian explained. “When you buy my produce, you’re supporting me and the whole farm.” She also uses her barn to raise awareness about the controversial Maryland Power Reliability Project (MPRP), juxtaposing her quilt with a sign opposing the project.
Another participant in the trail is Joan Myers, who operates Maryland Locust Crest in New Windsor. She has displayed the Stairway to the Stars quilt for about ten years. Myers, who has deep family roots in quilting, shared, “My mom, my aunt, my grandmother, and I’d say my great-grandmother… we had a quilting circle for many, many years.” This quilt serves as both a tribute to her family’s quilting heritage and a way to engage the community.
The Hirt family, who run Hirt Tree Farm in Westminster, have contributed their own quilt, designed by Melinda Hirt. This quilt features three trees, representing various species grown on the farm. The family has historical ties to the land, with roots going back to World War II. “The reality of doing the work can be pretty daunting sometimes,” Matthew Hirt, Melinda’s brother, explained, noting that maintaining the farm is a significant commitment that requires balancing with other full-time jobs.
Carroll County’s quilt trail not only beautifies the landscape but also cultivates a sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to explore these artistic expressions while gaining insights into the agricultural practices that define the region. As families gather around these quilts, they celebrate tradition, history, and the hard work that sustains local agriculture.
The barn quilts of Carroll County offer more than just vibrant colors against a rural backdrop; they invite the public to forge connections with the land and the stories of those who cultivate it. Each quilt stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family farms, making the Barn Quilt Trail a cherished destination for both locals and visitors alike.