Skip to main content
Quilt of Honor Awarded to the Obama Family
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Quilt of Honor Awarded to the Obama Family
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Quilt of Honor Awarded to the Obama Family

Artifact SeriesObama Administration Collection 2009-2017
Artifact ID2018.1.144.a-b
Object Type Quilt, Art
Maker (American)
Gifter
Date 2012
Medium textile (cotton)
DimensionsOverall - 2D (.a: Quilt) L 55 1/4 in x W 55 5/8 in (141.3 cm x 140.3 cm )
 Overall - 2D (.b: Pillowcase) L 20 1/2 in x W 28 7/8 in (73.3 cm x 52.1 cm )
Physical DescriptionPatriotic quilt with eight pointed star in the center composed of diamonds cut from different red, white, and blue fabrics (.a). Dappled navy blue fabric forms the base of the design with American national symbols embroidered in yellow thread in between each star point. Center top is embroidered with the message "Freedom is not free". Top two corners have eagles, center symbols are the Liberty Bell, and all bottom symbols are stars. The star in the bottom right is embroidered with the words "Quilt of Honor". Reverse of the quilt is a repeating patterned fabric that is navy blue with white text composed of patriotic language. At the top of the back there is a sleeve sewn to the quilt for hanging. Reverse of the bottom left corner has a patch with information about the quilt. Edge triming for both sides of the quilt is a fabric with a pattern of the American flag.

Accompanied by patriotic pillow case (.b). Composed of three different fabrics. Primary fabric is a repeating American flag pattern with fireworks. Trim fabric is a sparkly white, red, and blue pattern. Opening of pillow case is navy blue with repeating white stars.
Historical NoteIn 2012, the Obama White House recognized Gail Belmont as a Champion of Change for her efforts to support fellow veterans. Quilts of Honor are made by volunteers as a token of thanks, solace, and remembrance to those who have served in the armed forces.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThis item is material associated with various agencies and offices during the Obama administration and maintained as government property until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesObama Administration Collection 2009-2017 (National Archives Identifier 66540607)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view