Quilt, Flying Geese pattern 1842 - 1845

This quilt with the "Flying Geese" pattern was made by Mary Spingler Fonderden Van Beuren, sometime in the mid-19th century, likely in the United States. Quilts are a significant part of American material culture, and the "Flying Geese" pattern may have resonated with those seeking freedom, either literally or figuratively. The repeating triangles create a visual rhythm, yet each ‘goose’ is unique, made from different scraps of fabric. This speaks to resourcefulness, a virtue in a developing nation. However, it also prompts us to consider the social conditions of women at the time. Textile production was a domestic responsibility and quilts such as these may have been made out of necessity. Looking closely at the patterns and fabrics used, textile historians can find clues about the economic and cultural landscape of the time. The study of quilts offers insights into the lives of ordinary people. Appreciating this quilt means understanding its place in both art history and the broader history of American society.