Lancaster Quilt & Textile Museum

Quilting is a national past-time that is older than the nation itself. For centuries, mostly women have joined together to create quilts and textiles by hand and later with the use of machines, and this has served as an important backbone in our country's heritage. In the Lancaster area, quilting and textiles were especially important for community and economy alike, and you can learn more about this unique aspect of the local heritage with an interesting visit to the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum.

The Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum is located in a historic building that was originally built in 1912, and which stands in what is today the Market Square area. The building itself is a site to behold with its gorgeous Breaux-Arts style of architecture that includes a soaring, 64-foot tall ceiling with stone walls. You can spend a great deal of time admiring the architecture alone, but the exhibits on-site will truly captivate your attention as well. There are several different quilt collections on-site that explore various aspects of local culture and history, making this a very unique way to learn more about the local area.

Among the many popular exhibits at the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum is the Amish Quilts collection, which includes hand-made, authentic Amish quilts from the 19th and 20th centuries. This exhibit is the largest of its kind in the world, and by viewing the quilts, you will see the local stories and history hand-stitched into many of the designs. There are also other collections that include those from 18th century German and English settlers to the area, and these also explore their unique stories, cultures, and faith. Altogether, there are over 3,700 objects on display at the museum, and each is a true work of art in and of itself.

Before you leave the museum, you will want to stop by the museum gift shop. Here, you can find some really amazing gifts and souvenirs, and many are one-of-a-kind designs that you won't be able to find anywhere else. A visit to the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum will be a true highlight of your getaway!