McClenny Family Website
Family Quilt

Charlotte Allen Williams in her book "Florida Quilts" wrote, "A unique pictorial quilt known as the "Miracle Quilt of Democracy" (Plate 73) was made by Catherine Elizabeth (Kate) Waldron McClenny (c. 1870-1952 in 1932 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.  Kate was married to Carr Bowers McClenny and lived in the Jacksonville area all her life.  She taught piano and violin and was always interested in politics.  Although this quilt was a totally original design and does not contain any of the traditional design elements popular with quilters of her day, Kate did use the pastel colors in her appliqué and embroidery that were so widely used during this period. 

In a note written by Kate, the following is stated,  "Prophetic Rose Field  Miracle Quilt A banner of love and True Democracy" Made by the Mother of the "Plant a Rose" though directed by a still small voice guided by an unseen hand.  Each symbol depicted, has a Biblical, a Political, and a Prophetic significance.  Colors: field green, leaf green, emerald green.  Characteristics: simplicity, harmony, economy.  Material: cotton and wool.  Pleading for co-operating, good will and moral support in spreading the gospel of love and true democracy. I am sincerely... The seal of good will is quilted into the roof and was ---- and seal of Florida will be added as soon as it goes to Tallahassee, the capitol of Florida.  McClenny, Fla. home ----- Mrs. Carr Bowers McClenny, age 79"

Kate had no previous experience in quilting but managed to complete this quilt in less than a year.  While the central theme of the quilt is democracy, symbolized by Franklin D. Roosevelt's Little White House, it also incorporates biblical symbols and other facets of life in America.  The quilt was presented before the 1938 Florida legislature and was later exhibited in Jacksonville's Roosevelt and George Washington hotels.  Then Senator Claude Pepper liked the quilt so much that he had it displayed at several Florida Democratic party meetings.  The mayor and city council of Jacksonville Beach adopted a resolution in 1945 commending Kate for the vision and artistry she employed in the conception and execution of the "Banner of Democracy."  Kate dedicated the quilt to the young men who gave their lives in World War II, and it now belongs to the Beaches Area Historical Society in Jacksonville Beach, Florida." The quilt, which is 66" x 84", consists of a cotton top that was appliquéd and embroidered by hand.  Kate used cotton batting and hand quilted using both outline and parallel patterns on a light green backing. 

The quilt is believed to have been stolen from the family by the Beaches Area Historical Society.