Stella Ness was my great-great-grandmother on my mother’s side of the family. I briefly remember her. I was only one year old when she passed away. In pictures I have seen of her, she did not like to smile. Some people may think that with her never smiling, she was cold and mean. I never got to get to know her personality, but with this quilt portrayed and the hard work.  She enjoyed making quilts for each of her grandchildren. In 1995, Stella made this quilt for my mother. Each quilt she made was hand-stitched for all her family members. Each quilt is so different and special to each family member. To be able to have one of her quilts before she passed away in 2010 is something special in my family. The hard work, time, and detail that went into making a beautiful blanket for the comfort of others is incredible. This quilt is something I cherish and hope to have for many years to be able to pass down to my children and grandchildren. Even though I did not get to spend much time with her, this quilt helps me feel connected to my great-great-grandmother. It tells a story without words and shows her love in a quiet but meaningful way. Through this quilt, her legacy continues to live on within our family. 

– Ryley Wehrman

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