Albemarle Tradewinds February 2016 Final Web

Frisco Native American Museum
Visitors to the Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center are sometimes surprised to find
a quilt on display as an example of Native American art. Quilting was one of many crafting techniques
Native Americans borrowed and transformed into something unique to their culture. The art of quilting
was appealing because it reflected several native traditions: it provided a way to recycle materials to create a
beautiful and useful item, it was a means to showcase important symbols, and it produced a meaningful gift
for important occasions and ceremonies.
One of the best known examples of native quilt designs is the Morning Star which was popularized in
the late 1800s. The choice of the star was natural since the Morning Star had long been observed by natives
and depicted in beadwork and original paintings.
The Morning Star quilt is typically made with an eight-pointed star. Each point is composed of
small diamonds skillfully pieced together to create a full image, generally covering the entire quilt top.
Although the Star quilt originated among the Sioux tribes (Lakota, Dakota, and Nakoda/Assiniboine) it
spread throughout the Great Plains and became important for ceremonies, celebrations, and special occasions
for many eastern tribes as well.
The museum has a large star quilt on display. It was hand crafted by master quilter, and long-time
museum supporter, Pat Lysell from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Visitors often remark on the intricate
work and the magnificent design.
The museum is located on Hatteras Island and is open with winter hours from 10:30 AM - 5 PM Saturday
and Sunday. For more information, call 252-995-4440 or visit www.nativeamericanmuseum.org.
If you wish an article written about your business call Scott at 252-312-2302
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