In 1995, a group of women gathered to create a new quilt guild with unique criteria that they could not find in any of the existing local guilds. The founding members developed by-laws and standing rules to guide the formation of this new guild. They used their own money to fund all the initial expenses. In the spring, hoping there were others interested in forming this new guild, they planned a beautiful tea party to be held in a tiny room at the Prescott United Methodist Church on Gurley Street. They brought quilts to adorn the room. One was even draped across the grand piano and festooned with flowers. Pretty teacups and treats awaited the hoped-for guests. Imagine their delight when they were flooded with ladies wanting to join their new guild.
The first official meeting was August 14, 1995, at the Methodist Church. Tren Conner and Bette Smith shared the duties of president that first year. The fledgling guild was sponsored by the quilters of the San Diego Quilt Guild, who donated $500.00 to help defray some of the major start-up costs. They were contracted by founding member Mary Ogle, who had been a member of their board. And so began the humble history of Thumb Butte Quilters’ Guild with its 40 charter members.
Elsie Baker Fran Belousek Elizabeth Brown Carol Brownlow Trenien Conner Nancy Crisman Jean Davies Marjorie Densmore Judy DeVault Norma Edwards |
Judy Eppler Shirley Fitzgerald Beverly Ginnelly Dee Gosch Margaret Grayson Dorothy Henry Shirley Kelliher Lura Mahony Tina McCowan Jackie McDonald |
Mary Menerey Mary Ogle Nyla Paulsen Ruth Peterson Lorraine Pickering Noreen Poole Julie Rouse Vickie Sawyer Bette Smith Fern Smith |
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The original goals of TBQ were based on friendship, the love of quilting, and what quilts represent—the warmth and love of family, friends, and community. The founding members wanted a vibrant guild, with talented enthusiastic members who would work together toward common goals.
The money generated by dues, birthday raffles, silent auctions, The Company Store, opportunity quilts, and quilt shows remains entirely within the control of the TBQ Guild. This has resulted in our ability to bring in top quality, professional educators every year, and to purchase any necessary equipment as needed. TBQ’s Mission Statement clearly sets the course to further accomplish this goal: “To advance the art and appreciation of quilting through education.”
Throughout our existence, we have constantly sought activities that would open eyes, minds, and hearts to the artistry and allure of quilting.
Quilts are made of different fabrics sewn together to make a more beautiful whole. Our members are the fabrics that make up the more beautiful whole that is the Thumb Butte Quilters’ Guild.