CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Janice Juchems presented a program on Quilts of the Underground Railroad to the Spinning Wheel Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The Spinning Wheel chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution met Feb. 21 at the Embers. There were seven members present.

Member Janice Juchems gave the program on Quilts of the Underground Railroad. She covered quilt blocks and explained how they related to the Underground Railroad. For example, in the “Log Cabin” pattern if the middle square was black it meant the place was safe for the fugitives using the Railroad.

The pattern “Birds in the Air” could indicate a direction for fugitives to travel through their choice of fabric and the direction of the pattern. People could also tell the route by the quilts hanging outside the houses. Juchems had a book titled “Quilts of the Underground Railroad” that she shared with members.

Regent Emilie Frieberg opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and the American’s Creed. Chaplin Michelle Ankrum gave the opening prayer, reported the passing of member Judy Jurgensen and read the names of members with birthdays this winter.

Monthly reports were presented. In the Conservation report we were encouraged to use cat litter instead of ice melt on concrete. Deb Williams reported on American Heritage. She spoke about Rebels, spies and America’s first Valentine in1779. It was written by John Graves Simcoe to Sarah Townsend. He was in love but Sarah Townsend turned out to be a rebel spy. He was in the British army fighting against the rebels. They never did come together.

There was discussion about the $500 grant from National to be used for the “America 250” celebration and what it could be used for. Discussion included reading the Declaration of Independence on July 8 at the Courthouse, inviting the public and passing out copies of the Declaration rolled up and tied.

The chapter was invited to be in the Albion parade on June 6 where we could hand out fliers inviting people to join us on July 8 at the Courthouse.

Frieberg received our email about the American Spirit magazine. Subscription funds will be donated to the General Fund.

Hostess was Frieberg. The next meeting will be March 21 at the Embers.