The historic First Presbyterian Church, erected in 1871 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, radiated a different type of love recently at Quilts on the Pews.
The unique quilt show was held during the Autumn Street Fair, and featured approximately 125 quilts of varying styles and ages. Most of the heirlooms belong to church members who love quilts and enjoy sharing them.
Church members Jeannine and Donald Miller displayed some of their treasures, especially one she calls Legacy of the Past. It’s a Civil War inspired quilt featuring two cross-stitched soldiers in the center.
“The cross stitch pieces in the center were made by my mother and longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church, Winnie Morris, in 1978,” said Jeannine. “They hung over my parent’s fireplace for many years, and after their passing, I wanted to do something to preserve this piece of history.”
First Presbyterian is well known for its historical beauty, boasting eight unique stained glass windows, seven of which are original, as one was replaced for a memorial window. A majestic Pitcher pipe organ was built in 1894, and installed in the church in 1904. Ginger Sinks is the current organist.
Possibly one of the oldest quilts was exhibited by Cynthia Campen. She shared several of their family treasures in the display, and was on hand to discuss each one. A crazy quilt, probably made by her late husband Marvin Campen’s aunt Daisy Womack dates to the late 1800s. She also shared a unique postage stamp quilt, completely made of 1-inch squares and beautifully quilted.
Co-chairs for the event were Donna Deaton and Wanda Stacy, with Connie Sinks assisting with the organization. 
 “We haven’t done a quilt show in some time, and we thought this would be a great way for us to share our love of quilting, and display them in the church, which is beautiful in itself,” said Deaton.
According to organizers, approximately 100 people came through the show to both enjoy the quilts and the church sanctuary.
“We were very pleased with the show and everyone seemed very pleased,” said Deaton. “Who knows, we might just do another one in the future.”