The Burgoyne Surrounded design was one of many made by quiltmakers in the early 20th century that commemorated early American events, people, places, and textiles—in essence serving as a symbol of American democracy. The pattern reminded one of the two-color woven coverlets common in early America. The name of the pattern commemorated British General John Burgoyne’s surrender to American colonial forces in the Revolutionary War after the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the war.