Faith, Heritage, Freedom: A Stitched History of South Bend (2026)
Burlap, denim, kente cloth, cotton, and imagery

This quilt is an homage to the African American history of the South Bend, Indiana community. It reflects the legacy of the Great Migration, when many African Americans came to South Bend seeking refuge from the Jim Crow South and opportunities within the city’s growing manufacturing industries, including Studebaker, Singer Sewing Company, and Oliver Chilled Plow Works. The burlap and denim represent the manufacturing industry as well as African-American history.Their labor and presence helped shape the city’s cultural and economic landscape, particularly during the mid-20th century.

The inclusion of kente cloth honors the role of African American churches in the community, such as St. Augustine Catholic Church, where the fabric is often incorporated into ceremonial garments. The quilt form itself also references the region’s deep connection to the Underground Railroad, acknowledging the networks of Black and white residents in St. Joseph County who offered safe passage to freedom seekers during the 1840s and 1850s.

The imagery woven throughout the quilt highlights significant African American landmarks in South Bend, including the Herring House, St. Augustine Catholic Church, and Linden School, as well as a tribute to Frazier Thompson, the first African American graduate of the University of Notre Dame. Together, these elements create a layered narrative of migration, resilience, faith, and community.