This American Ships quilt from the Ruby McKim Short Studios has an appliquéd center medallion surrounded by embroidered ships. Short published this pattern originally in 1937 making it available as a monthly serial in newspapers. 

The type of ship is embroidered beneath each ship. The victory “V” from World War II is quilted into four blocks along the edge implying that Short may have updated her kit during World War II or the maker added her own designs. Other quilted patriotic symbols such as the Liberty Bell, eagle, and shield stand out against the blue background fabric.