Monkey Wrench Barn Quilt Coming to the Farm Soon

We have received an addition to Woodlawn Farm that will be going up in the near future—an Underground Railroad barn quilt block. For those in the areas of the country that utilized quilts to provide information to runaway slaves about services in the area or directions for moving further north, they often saw quilts hanging on the clothesline or the fence with blocks providing that information. Our block, which is 4-feet square, was made by Connie Sutton of Mt. Sterling. She is a quilter who has also made a number of barn quilt blocks. 

Example of a monkey wrench quilt block

Our block is named after the monkey wrench, a heavy metal tool used by the blacksmith.  As a rule, the blacksmith was the most knowledgeable person on the plantation and became known as the “Monkey Wrench.” He could travel around without anyone being suspicious and, therefore, pass along information as needed. In other words, the Monkey Wrench was the person or a group of people who got things moving.   

When this block was displayed, it meant it was time to collect tools needed on the journey north to freedom. There were physical tools needed for constructing shelter, for defending themselves and determining direction. Along with food, and a few coins, they were to wrap these tools in a bandana bundle.

Soon, visitors will be able to admire this new addition to the farm. Thanks for sharing your creative talents with us, Connie!