Although the occasion celebrated by this quilt is unknown, each block bears the name of a friend who contributed to a “surprise” for Mary A. Grow, as the quilt is inscribed in ink on the reverse. Mary Ann Hackett (1817–1896) was born in England and moved with her family to New York State, where she married William A. Grow, a minister. They subsequently moved to Plymouth, Michigan, where this quilt was made, and then to Pennsylvania. The quilt was obviously cherished over the years and descended in Mary’s family.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Surprise Quilt Presented to Mary A. Grow," exhibition label for QUILTS: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2010.