Rare Antique Civil War Era Letter H Quilt c. 1870 | Hand Quilted Turkey Red & Green Farmhouse Decor | 70 x 89

This striking antique Letter H Quilt dates to approximately 1870–1875 and is a wonderful example of American quiltmaking from the era. The H-pattern block has been used for centuries and is documented in early quilt literature like Quilts: Their Story and How to Make Them (1915) by Marie D. Webster. During the American Civil War (1861–1865), the H-block quilt became more than a decorative item, but served functional purposes in wartime logistics and frontline relief by designating places for medical assistance.

Today, the geometric block quilt design has a modern appearance, even in this case in which the quilt is made from beautiful 19th century shirtings, plaids, stripes, mourning-style black prints, chrome yellows, soft pinks, blues, greens, and classic nineteenth-century calicoes. Every block is different and the vivid Turkey red framing remains saturated, providing a dramatic contrast with the body of the quilt.

The hand quilting is in diagonal grids in the body of the quilt and in double diagonals along the four sided border. The back is the same green tiny print as the outer border and it has been turned to the front and handstitched to form the binding. The cotton batting is very lightweight.

CONDITION: The quilt is in very good condition for a more than 150-year-old quilt, but has age-related condition issues including fabric loss and wear along portions of the borders. The interior blocks remain visually strong, and the overall presentation is exceptionally attractive despite its honest signs of age. Please examine the photos as they are an important part of the description.

Details
* Approximate Date: circa 1870–1875
* Size: 70” x 89”
* Pattern: Unusual Roman Bars / Window Frame variation
* Hand pieced
* Hand quilted
* Green floral print backing
* Rich assortment of authentic nineteenth-century printed cottons
* Turkey red sashing throughout
* Age-related border fabric loss and wear consistent with its age
* Displays beautifully with outstanding color and visual impact

Perfect For
* Antique quilt collectors
* Primitive farmhouse décor
* Early American interiors
* Historic textile collections
* Cottage and country homes
* Wall display
* Museum-quality textile enthusiasts



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