This is one of three quilts in the Heritage Quilt Collection stitched by members of the Green family from Oak Leaf, Ontario. Crazy quilts, characterized by asymmetrical piecework, varied fabrics and decorative embroidery, derive their name not only from their ‘wild’ appearance, but also from their resemblance to crazing lines (the crackled glaze) on Japanese pottery. These quilts were all the rage after the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, where visitors flocked to the Japanese Pavilion to view the arts. Crazy quilts were often intended for show, draped over a piano or parlour furniture, and rarely slept under. This one, however, had a more utilitarian life. It was probably made by Annie E. Green and Josephine (Josie) Green Botsford for their niece Lura Vivian Green (later Fritz), who was born in 1898. Both aunts did not have children of their own, and Lura was the only child of their brother Robert Edward Green and Estelle (Stella) Cheetham. She would have been understandably doted on.

Crazy quilts could be very personal expressions, incorporating names, images and fabrics that were meaningful to the maker. Embroidered on the quilt are Josie’s and Lura’s given names, Annie E. Green’s initials, and the initials of the makers- father, Brock Green (B.G.). English primroses and Irish shamrocks also appear, references to the family’s heritage. Stella Cheetham Green, who was a dressmaker, may have supplied the fabrics.