The Monroe County Historical Association is inviting quilters of all abilities and skill levels to participate in the “Stars and Stitches Forever” Quilt Challenge.

Following the guidelines, quilters are asked to create a piece of art that interprets their journey (or their family’s journey) of migration or immigration to America and/or the area now known as Monroe County. The challenge is part of the countywide celebrations planned for 2026 to honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The challenge comes not only in interpreting the theme but also in working within specific rules.

Each quilt must be 30” by 30” and include at least one star. Traditional or original patterns may be used. Fabrics, colors and techniques are left to the quilter’s choice.

Monroe County Historical Association Executive Director Amy Leiser said, “The ‘Stars and Stitches Forever’ Quilt Challenge offers artists the opportunity to create a meaningful quilt that tells their personal story through the use of fabrics, stitches and images. Quilters will share their connection to the community, their family and the broader American experience.”

Linda Post Bushkofsky, association board member and quilter, reflected on the history of quilting.

“Throughout our country’s history, quilts have been made to keep people warm and to feed the soul as artistic expressions,” she said. “Now it’s time to honor this momentous anniversary with quilts unique to Monroe County.”

Quilts are due by 3 p.m. on Feb. 27, 2026, and will be accepted from Feb. 3 through the deadline. Challenge quilts will be exhibited in the Monroe County Historical Association’s Hughes Community Room in the new Heritage Center from April 1 through July 31, 2026.

The Monroe County Historical Association owns over 100 quilts of various patterns and sizes.

As part of the “Stars and Stitches Forever” Quilt Challenge, a selection of quilts from the collection will be showcased in a special exhibition.

For complete instructions, including the entry form for the “Stars and Stitches Forever” Quilt Challenge, visit https://www.monroehistorical.org/250pa.html or contact the office at 570-421-7703.