Waterford museum proudly goes red and white

Brenda Moser

Advocate Correspondent

James Christison, Curator of Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum, is pleased to announce the opening of their newest exhibit ‘Textiles of Tenacity: Historical Red & White Quilts.’

Their latest feature exhibit adorns the main hall and captures one’s attention as soon as they step into the gallery.

Red and white is a classic colour scheme for quilt making that was very popular for over a century and now has a very special meaning for all Canadians. As we proudly support Canada, this exhibit reminds us all of the love of country that has been a part of our long history. It explores the infinite variations of design and pattern, while using just two colours.

Many of the quilts on display were made for fundraising purposes while others were made for domestic use. More today than ever, the red and white has a very particular and patriotic meaning. The staff at WHAM have taken great care in displaying the many ‘works of art’ that are on loan to them. More than 50 red-and-white quilts, gathered from across all of Southwestern Ontario, will be on display until Sept. 27.

Christison and the staff of WHAM would like to acknowledge and thank Heather Smith for organizing those responsible for bringing this beautiful exhibition to WHAM. These include the following contributors: Aylmer-Malahide Museum & Archives; Annandale National Historic Site; Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre; Elgin County Museum; Grey Roots Museum & Archives; Huron County Museum; County of Lambton Museums; Norfolk County Heritage & Culture Dept; North Buxton National Historic Site; Wellington County Museum & Archives and Woodstock Museum National Historic Site. A very special thank you goes out to the Twilight Quilters’ Guild.

AGRICUTURAL HALL OF FAME

Museum staff take great pride in their work and are busy preparing for the upcoming 2025 Agricultural Hall of Fame reception on Sept. 14, 2025 at 2 p.m. The event honours and celebrates Norfolk County’s outstanding contributions to agriculture and also promotes local achievements in agriculture. Mark the date on your calendar and join the celebrations and unveiling of the new exhibit highlighting their achievements and accomplishments in agriculture.

If you would like to visit WHAM and check out all of their displays, they are open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation.