How People Made Coverlets

The factory tour was a perennial favorite feature on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.  In his words, “My father and my two grandfathers worked in factories, and I was always interested in their work. When we show factories, they certainly have fascinating machines, but I always emphasize that it takes people to make machines and to make them work.” 

From handwoven bed coverlets made in home workshops to anonymous factory productions, the coverlets in the McCarl Collection embody the transition from cottage industry to factory automation over the course of the 19th century.  How people made coverlets explores this transition through the lives of the people who made and used these beautiful antique textiles. The exhibit consisted of 23 coverlets, 19th century textile equipment, and excerpts from Mister Roger’s Neighborhood.

How people made coverlets was open from September 21, 2023 through February 29th, 2024. The Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Gallery is located in the Fred Rogers Center on the campus of Saint Vincent College. Admission and parking are free. The McCarl Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and by appointment. Guided tours are also available.