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With traditional 1770s fife and drum music playing in the background, the ladies of the Virginia Dare Chapter of the Daughters of American Revolution commemorated 20 forefathers with the unveiling of their new Patriots Quilt on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

The Patriots Quilt was assembled in advance to celebrate the coming America 250 anniversary on July 4, 2026, according to Cheryl Melton, who kept busy welcoming everyone at the door.

Held at Duck Methodist Church, eight presenting members dazzled attendees with fascinating stories about their respective patriots, which all were featured with 20 handmade squares or patches in the unique quilt.

Local Chapter Regent Sherri Haber called the meeting to order, then the group recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag as well as the American’s Creed before moving to the program about the quilt.

One by one, the presenting members introduced their respective patriots and proceeded to paint pictures bringing the patriots to life. These forefathers risked everything to achieve a new way of life, said Brenda Brown, the first to present.

Her patriot was Maj. Benjamin May (1736-1808), a land and slave owner in what eventually became Pitt County. He fought at the battle of Guilford Courthouse and was charged with procuring and purchasing firearms for the patriots.

May also served in the North Carolina Provisional Congress in Halifax. On April 12, 1776, the group passed the Halifax Resolve, which was the first call for independence from Great Britain, she said. When North Carolina created its own flag, that was added and it’s still on the state flag now.

First Vice Regent Stacey Starsman shared her linage to the Bush family. Her fifth great grandfather was James George Bush, who provided grist to patriots.

As the stories were shared, they referenced names of men, women, battles, towns, rivers, mountains and the officers who led soldiers. Mentioned was the Pitt County Militia, Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, Kings Mountain, the Eastern Shore, Nutter’s Fort, the Virginia Militia and the Hessians in Albemarle County, Va.

A colorful patch work of history was shared and the Patriots Quilt united it all.

Melton said there will be plenty more activities for the Daughters of the American Revolution during the run up to July 4, 2026.

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