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1870 - 1890 Margaret O'Sullivan Langford's "Star of Bethlehem" Quilt

Object Details

Description
Margaret Langford pieced this version of “Star of Bethlehem” also known as “Harvest Sun” or “Prairie Star” in the later part of the 19th century. The nine pieced blocks are set off by 14-inch and 7¼-inch plain white squares to create a dramatic overall design. It is quilted, 10 stitches per inch, with outline and diagonal grid patterns. Three sides have a 2½-inch printed cotton border.
Margaret O’Sullivan was born in 1852, to Jeremiah (1814-1884) and Elizabeth “Betty” Osburn (1824-1876) O’Sullivan in Spencer County, Kentucky. She married Larkin R. Langford on October 8, 1867. They lived in Anderson County, Kentucky. She died on April 13, 1894, in Spencer County, Kentucky. Another of her quilts, in the “Spider’s Web” pattern, is in the collection of the Kentucky Historical Society.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
maker
Langford, Margaret O’Sullivan
date made
1870-1890
Credit Line
Gift of Rear Admiral W.R. Sheeley
Physical Description
fabric, cotton (overall material)
thread, cotton (overall material)
filling, cotton (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 82 in x 72 in; 208 cm x 183 cm
Object Name
quilt

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Star of Bethlehem Quilt
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