A quilt trail is a series of painted wood or metal hung or freestanding quilt squares forming a distinct trail in a single area emphasizing significant history, architecture and/or aesthetic landscapes. Created by quilt guilds, civic groups, local arts councils, 4-H clubs, school groups, and other organizations. Most are a countywide effort, which creates local pride in the project.

Macon County has a rich tradition of quilting. Many spots throughout Macon County have quilt blocks on barns and buildings to show they are a part of the Macon County Quilt Trail.

Our Quilt Square: “Octagonal Star”

Our quilt square is the “octagonal star” which is mounted on Fellowship House.  We’ve chosen a circular shape to reflect our round sanctuary and spirit of equality.  The green outside points reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship while the rainbow center symbolizes our celebration of diversity. 

A close look at the center will reveal an optical experience, symbolic of our outreach program. The colors and planes reach out to welcome you and to invite you to visit/join our services, religious education (RE) programs, lectures and seasonal performances.

Airing of the Quilts

“Airing of the Quilts” is an annual festival on Mother’s Day Weekend in historic downtown Franklin, North Carolina, Mother’s Day Weekend. The event showcases the artistry of quilts with an outdoor (and indoor) quilt show and is sponsored by the downtown merchants.

You’ll see many quilts displayed not only on the squares in Downtown Franklin but inside and outside participating downtown business as well. There is also a Macon County Quilt Trail to enjoy.

It is an annual tradition for mountain folks, after a long winter, to put items outdoors to air, especially quilts. “Airing of the Quilts” combines this tradition and our quilting heritage for a wonderful event that everyone is sure to enjoy.