Bicentennial celebration kicks off with quilt show

From the founding of our country, American quilts have served many unique purposes, such as showcasing the sewing talents of women during the American Revolution and providing maps and hidden messages for the Underground Railroad.

It?s with that rich history in mind, the kickoff for the year-long Warren County Bicentennial Celebration begins with a quilt show.

The quilt show is set to take place Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church on Main Street. The event is sponsored by First Presbyterian Church and the Lt. James Sheppard Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

Quilts display as many different patterns and variations on patterns as the quiltmakers who design them. The Bicentennial Quilt Show will feature the collections of DAR chapter members and others. The event is free and refreshments will be served in the church fellowship hall.

Promptly at 2 p.m., a tea tasting class will be offered in the fellowship hall. Tea also has played an important role in the history of our country. From the political role of the Boston Tea Party in the American Revolution to the social benefits of tea parties throughout the ages, tea is ingrained in American culture.

Regent Meredith Anne Higgs of DAR, who is also the Missions Elder of First Presbyterian Church, will present the tea tasting class. Higgs has taken tea classes at the International Food and Wine Festival, including classes with Stephen Twinings, a 13th generation master tea maker.

Participation in the tea class is free, but limited to only the first 25 people who make reservations. Reservatons can be made with Rachel Killebrew at 473-8616.