Quilt, Art

Object number2007.76.1

ArtistPossibly Bridget D. McCoy (1859 - 1943)

ArtistPossibly Catherine T. McCoy (1896 - 1923)

Date1910-1920

MediumFelt; cotton

Credit LineGift of Mariagnes Peters Schuler

DescriptionTobacco felt quilt. Thin rectangular quilt top is made up of smaller rectangular flannel multi-colored printed "felts."Dimensions70 x 71.5 in. (177.8 x 181.6 cm)
Historical NotesA tobacco felt quilt made by members of the McCoy family, Irish immigrants living in Westmoreland County. The quilt highlights the popularity and use of tobacco felts in the early 20th century. It was likely made by Bridget D. McCoy (1859-1943) or her daughter Catherine T. McCoy (1896-1923) while the family lived in the Greensburg area. The tobacco from which the felts were collected was likely used by Bridget's husband, coal miner Michael McCoy (1856-1923). Tobacco "felts" were actually made of flannel and were either woven or printed-on. Often these felts were found wrapped inside cigar and/or cigarette packages as premiums. Many of these premiums were disposable, others highly collectable; one could actually collect a number of them to send away for larger or deluxe versions of the same premiums.

Related person Michael McCoy (1856 - 1923)

Subjects