Alderson quilter Mary Mitchell blends art, history, and heart in every stitch.

“I hope people realize how much effort goes into handwork. Quilting is part of a tradition that connects us to the past.” – Mary Mitchell

From Sewing to Storytelling

Mary Mitchell has been sewing since she was 12, but quilting didn’t come into her life until around 1998. She recalls her first major project: an Underground Railroad quilt, started in 2003 and finished by 2004–2005. It was part of a class, led by the instructor who is Mary’s dear friend, Mary Godby.

“I wouldn’t know how to quilt without her. It was the first large quilt I ever did. The fabrics came from a kit, which helped me, because I’m color challenged. But the book we followed gave history for each block, and that’s when we started researching the stories of the people involved. The slaves relied on inner strength and God, and used spirituals as signals along the way.”

Mary’s Underground Railroad quilt has never been for sale, reflecting both its significance and the countless hours of dedication stitched into it. It’s more than a quilt. It’s a historical record.

Candlewicking: A Pioneering Tradition

Another highlight in Mary’s collection is her Candlewick quilt, a white-and-cream design steeped in pioneer history.

“Pioneers didn’t always have thread, so they used candle wicks to sew. That’s how Candlewicking developed. It’s a quilt I’ll never sell, though I’ve had a commission requested. The time it would take… well, by the time it was done, they probably wouldn’t want it,” she says with a laugh.

Alongside these pieces, Mary has created quilts using Grandmother’s Flower Garden patterns, including one featuring fabrics over 100 years old, passed down by a friend. Each piece carries a story, connecting past and present in a tangible way.

Quilts of Valor and Giving Back

Mary has also contributed to Quilts of Valor, a national effort to honor veterans with handmade quilts. She has personally participated in six presentations (three given by her to her family, and three in partnership with the Alderson Quilt Guild) and continues to support the Alderson Quilt Guild.

“Quilts are more than art. They’re community. They touch hearts far beyond my studio.”

Quilting as Historical Preservation

For Mary, quilting is about preserving stories.

“We’re losing so much history. Many of the things older generations know aren’t taught anymore. Quilts carry those stories of faith, perseverance, and survival. With the Underground Railroad quilt, you see how music, signals, and courage guided people to freedom. That history is stitched right into the fabric.”

Her hope is that viewers recognize the effort, skill, and cultural significance woven into each quilt.

Deep Roots, Strong Community

Mary’s deep connection to place and history is reflected in her work and in her volunteer efforts, including managing the Alderson Ministerial Association Thrift Shop.

Her quilts for sale are displayed at the Alderson Artisan Gallery, where she has presented pieces in partnership with the North House Museum, as part of First Friday events.

A Legacy in Every Stitch

Mary’s quilts, from the Candlewick to the Underground Railroad, invite viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the threads connecting past and present. Whether hand-quilted or machine-made, each piece is a bridge to history, a celebration of culture, and a testament to care and patience.

“People should take away that quilts carry stories. They’re art, they’re history, and they’re a way to honor those who came before us. That’s why I quilt. Because history deserves to be remembered.”

Where to See Mary’s Work

While there is no place to see the Underground Railroad Quilt or the Candlewicking Quilt, Mary’s quilts that are for sale are on display at Alderson Artisan Gallery. For more information, visit the gallery’s website (www.aldersongallery.com) or stop by in person to explore her artistry.

In a world that moves faster every day, Mary Mitchell’s quilts ask us to slow down, to look closely and listen. Each stitch is a quiet act of remembrance, carrying stories of faith, resilience, and community. Through fabric and thread, Mary preserves what might otherwise be forgotten, reminding us that history is preserved not only in books and museums, but also through the hands of those who carry traditions forward. Sometimes, it’s wrapped gently around us, passed hand to hand, one quilt at a time.