Crawford County Recognized in Bicentennial Quilt

Quilts are at the centerpiece of Missouri’s 200-year history. Traditionally, quilts pass from generation to generation as a way to share a family’s story. Speaking of quilts, to celebrate the state’s 200th birthday in 2021, several art-related projects are planned around the Missouri Bicentennial. For example, the Missouri Bicentennial Quilt Project is a commemorative handmade quilt that represents every county in the state and the independent city of St. Louis. The assembled quilt is a testament to the resilient spirit of the people and the colorful history of Missouri.

The Bicentennial Quilt Tour

Think of it as a huge state history lesson made up of fibers and thread in 121 squares. Now on tour, the patchwork Missouri Bicentennial Quilt represents the culture, character, and courage of Missouri’s past and present.

Together, the quilt’s squares exhibit the solidarity of strong immigrant families from many different countries and cultures and eventually make Missouri home.

As part of the bicentennial quilt project, a reveal of the quilt to all participating artists was on the spring schedule at the Governor’s Mansion. Unfortunately, the reception was unable to take place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After the state tour, the quilt will be on permanent display at the Governor’s mansion.

The Crawford County quilt square, created by Pat Cookson

Fiber Artist: Pat Cookson

To represent Crawford County in the bicentennial quilt project, local fiber artist Pat Cookson’s submission was selected for its unique quality and historical significance. Ms.Cookson’s square depicts the Osage Trail Legacy monument in Cuba, Missouri.

To illustrate, she uses a technique known as interpretive imaging embroidery. Her intricate work recreates a historical narrative on a 6×6 inch square of cotton fabric.

This fiber representation of the Osage Trail Legacy pays homage to the distinctive work of local artist Glen Tutterow.  The 35 ft tall Osage family steel sculpture is visible from Interstate 44 at Exit 208 in Cuba.

Pat’s Inspiration

Ms. Cookson has been a resident of Crawford County for over 30 years. In retrospect, her love of the fabric arts comes from her mother and a long line of creative women. At the age of nine, Cookson’s mother, the late Pat Palazzolo, taught her the intricate art of embroidery. Since then, she has created hundreds of fiber creations. Her work includes a world-class silk ribbon masterpiece and she runs a fine needle arts gallery in her home. With numerous awards and accolades for her skilled work, Cookson’s home studio called Two Pats Gallery of Fine Needle Arts, displays decades of fiber compositions, vintage fabrics, and handcrafted creations.

Pat’s Pastime

As a member of the Cuba Methodist Church, Cookson’s fiber art talent goes beyond her home gallery. Weekly, she participates in a quilting group that quilts the facing on handmade quilts. Occasionally, repairs on vintage quilts are done by request. Collectively, these quilt projects are a fundraiser for the church. In addition, Cookson is a valued member and docent at the Crawford County Historical Society Museum and a strong advocate for Cuba’s historical preservation.  Additionally, she is also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and holds the place of American Heritage chairperson of the Noah Coleman Chapter.

When interviewed, Cookson said, “Quilting and the fiber arts have always brought me joy. It always offers me the opportunity to spend time with friends who have the same passion.” She went on to say that her inspiration came from her mother, grandmother, and aunt who used fabric and thread to make the world a more beautiful place.

To see the quilt on tour and Cookson’s specialty quilt square, visit Missouri’s Bicentennial Quilt Project for the schedule.