Antique WWI-Era Wool Autograph Quilt, Folk Art Textile -- c. 1917–1922, 64" by 78"

A rare and beautifully preserved antique wool autograph quilt, created during the World War I era and dated 1917–1922 within the quilt itself. Measuring 64” x 78”, this piece was intended as a commemorative or display quilt, preserving names and handwriting rather than serving as everyday bedding.

The quilt is composed of wool suiting fabrics—plaids, tweeds, houndstooth, and deep solids—many likely cut from men’s garments of the period. Each rectangular block is individually hand-embroidered with names, dates, and family identifiers, forming a vivid record of a close-knit community during and just after World War I. The blocks are joined with bold red embroidery, giving the quilt its striking graphic grid and unmistakable folk art presence.

The back is black flannel while the binding is grey flannel that has been machine stitched to the front and hand-stitched to the back. The cotton batting is medium weight.

Autograph quilts of this type were often made to honor loved ones, commemorate service, or document members of a church, family, or town. In this case, the autographs come from all over the United States including Washington state, Montana and Alaska.

Notably, this quilt survives in excellent antique condition, with no visible holes, moth damage, repairs, or embroidery loss. The wool remains stable, the stitching secure. This quilt has also been safely steam-cleaned in a steam closet, ensuring it is clean and odor-free.

Details:
• Date: c. 1917–1922 (embroidered dates present)
• Size: 64” x 78”
• Materials: Wool suiting fabrics with hand embroidery
• Construction: Embroidered red yarn joins
• Style: Folk Art / Autograph / Memorial Quilt
• Condition: Excellent antique condition; no visible condition issues noted
• Use: Ideal for display, collection, or textile study; not recommended for daily bed use due to age and materials

It comes from a smoke-free, pet-free home and is shown on a queen-size bed.