Iowa, 1898. A signed and dated 1898, Iowa quilt, commemorating the Spanish American War. An entirely handmade pieced and embroidered quilt. Predominantly in colors of red, white, blue and cheddar yellow. Depicting flags of 39 countries, names and symbols on flags are embroidered, along with a signed inscription Made by E.B. Townsend W.R.C./ Bloomfield Iowa/ July 1898. All surrounded by a saw tooth pattern border with shield at each corner. Unwashed and still shows graphite markings for quilting; 85 x 78 in.
The WRC or Woman's Relief Corps was one of several organizations allied with the GAR, a Civil War Veterans organization. The WRC of Iowa was active in the early 1900's, funding and erecting Civil War monuments.
The Spanish-American War was a conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898. The four-month war fought over Cuban independence that developed into a global conflict.
Condition: Overall toning and areas of spots, also brown stains on verso.