• Address: Covington, GA 30014 (map)
• Date Posted: 11/06/09

Wonderful pre Civil War quilt dates back to 1832 in the Watchung, New Jersey area. According to the Historical Commission of New Jersey, no other state exceeds New Jersey in the number of all black communities that provided sanctuaries for southern fugitive slaves during the Underground Railroad movement, which began in 1830. Watchung and the Union County area reflect a proud history of participation in aiding in the Underground Railroad movement and those seeking freedom.

The 75"x79" quilt is designed in the 'Tumbling Block or Tumbling Box' pattern. The pattern itself is Victorian. The Tumbling Block quilt, according to UGRR history, represented the last quilt bearing information for those fleeing. US history tells of the quilts being hung out on lines and fences to relay messages to the slaves escaping to freedom. This quilt was the last message and meant that the time had come to pack up and go. Within the intricate work can be seen the 'Six Pointed Star' pattern. The materials are of cottons and silk and the light, medium and darker colors planned and placed to form the blocks that appear to be tumbling forward.


The history dates to E Criley who married H Spier, son of Henrich Spier of Germany. Henrich had ten children, left Germany and settled in Watchung. He purchased land and built a large plantation and other homes on his 2200 acres of land. The quilt date is indicated on the label. The character shows a few thread bare places and wear. After all, there are many bygone days carefully crafted in this labor of love.

The family owning the quilt is moving and the heirloom is being sold. $1275

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