Watersmeet Township recently received a meaningful and artistic gift celebrating the land, wildlife and community spirit of the Northwoods.
Members of the Northwoods Quilters presented a handmade quilt to the township as a tribute to the region and it’s people. The quilt is now proudly displayed at the Watersmeet Township office for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The quilt was created as a celebration of the land, wildlife, and people who define the Northwoods. Its design reflects the meeting of rivers, the colors of the Upper Peninsula, and the creativity of the community.
Within the quilt’s design are images of animals commonly found in the region, including fish, deer, moose, bear, wolves and eagles. The piece evokes the haunting call of the loon, a familiar sound across Northwoods lakes.
The quilt also honors the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, (“LVD”) recognizing the tribe as the first stewards of the forests and waters in the area.
Inspiration for the quilt came from waterfalls, the northern lights and the waters of the Ottawa National Forest, creating a tribute to the place many residents proudly call home.
The quilt was made by members of the Northwoods Quilters: Aileen Williams, Cheryl Gorshe, Marti Wegner, Robert Yerks, Bonnie Peacock, Jean Erhart, Nancy Byrne, Sandy Hodgman, Cindy Tinker, Joan Cavanaugh, Regina Casey and Tammy Haluska.
LVD members Alina Shively and Lisa McGeshick guided the quilters in incorporating floral elements into the quilt that hold special significance to the Lac Vieux Desert tribe. The vintage tribal medallions were donated by Master Beader Tom Strobel.
The quilt stands as a lasting symbol of the natural beauty, cultural heritage and strong sense of community found in Watersmeet and throughout the Northwoods.
