Cavan Monaghan Celebrates their Rural History with the Rising Sun Quilt Block

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Council and members of the Barn Quilt Committee cutting a ribbon on the barn quilt

In celebration of community spirit and cultural heritage, Township Councilors, Staff and volunteers with the Cavan Monaghan Barn Quilt Trail (CMBQT) Committee, gathered today for a formal ribbon cutting ceremony of the Rising Sun Quilt Block.  Designed by local quilter Kate DeKlerk and painted by local artist Maya deMaria, this vibrant piece of artistry was installed on the south-facing wall of the Municipal Office in the late fall of 2023. 

A universal symbol of hope and a daily reminder that each day brings fresh opportunities, the Rising Sun Quilt Block design was chosen for the Municipal Office because it visually represents how important agriculture is to the community.  “The design characterizes various elements of nature and agriculture both of which are vital to this community.  The sun and weather are crucial to growing food. Blue has been chosen for the colour of the sky; green captures the crops, fallow fields and forests. The curving rays emanating from the centre beautifully represent the rolling hills of Cavan Monaghan. The red triangles in the outer circle remind us of the beauty of sunrises and sunsets over our fields and hills,” explains Committee member Glen Spurrell.

The Rising Sun Barn Quilt Block is one of many blocks that were individually designed and painted by a vibrant and dedicated group of volunteers that make up the CMBQT Committee.  Over the past ten years, the group has meticulously developed a picturesque trail that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship and the vital role of agriculture in the community. Walking and driving tour directions are available on the CMBQT website: https://www.cmbqt.com/

“The Cavan Monaghan Barn Quilt trail is a unique experience that not only commemorates the history of our community but the people within it,” says Cavan Monaghan Mayor Matthew Graham. “This passionate group of volunteers reflect the very fabric our community.  People who firmly believe in the importance of preserving our history and have the creativity and skill to do so.