Visitors to the Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center are sometimes surprised to find a quilt on display as an example of Native American art. Quilting was one of many crafting techniques Native Americans borrowed and transformed into something unique to their culture. The art of quilting was appealing because it reflected several native traditions: it provided a way to recycle materials to create a beautiful and useful item, it was a means to showcase important symbols, and it produced a meaningful gift for important occasions and ceremonies.
One of the best-known examples of native quilt designs is the Morning Star which was popularized in the late 1800s.The choice of the star was natural since the Morning Star had long been observed by natives and depicted in beadwork and original paintings.
The Morning Star quilt is typically made with an eight-pointed star. Each point is composed of small diamonds skillfully pieced together to create a full image, generally covering the entire quilt top. Although the Star quilt originated among the Sioux tribes (Lakota, Dakota, and Nakoda/Assiniboine) it spread throughout the Great Plains and became important for ceremonies, celebrations, and special occasions for many eastern tribes as well.
The museum has star quilts on display that were hand crafted by master quilter and long-time museum supporter, Pat Lysell from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Visitors often remark on the intricate work and the magnificent design. The museum gift shop also includes a number of beautifully quilted items created by a number of native artists.
The museum is located on Hatteras Island. Winter hours of operation (January – March 31) are 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday. For more information, call 252-995-4440 or visit www.nativeamericanmuseum.org.
