The Navajo are known more for their woven rugs and blankets than their quilts; however, this 1964 photograph depicts Mennonite women teaching Navajo women quiltmaking. Missionary women taught Native American women of many tribes quiltmaking techniques since the late 19th century. Boarding school education for Native American girls required sewing classes. Girls learned white America’s sewing traditions including garment making, embroidery, and quiltmaking. When missionary women taught adult Native American women quiltmaking, they were likely to have used popular patterns. Mennonite Board of Missions. Photographs. Winslow, Arizona, Voluntary Service Units, 1900-1970. IV-10-7.2 Box 2 Folder 2, photo #15. Mennonite Church USA Archives - Goshen. Goshen, Indiana.

Title: 
Anita Beidler
Maker: 
Unknown photographer
Taken in
1964