Celebration Under the Freedom Tree

“Celebration Under the Freedom Tree” is my latest addition to my growing Juneteenth Quilt collection. I tend to enjoy collections. To date, I have a red and white quilt collection and a Christmas quilt collection.
When I think of summer celebrations during my youth in my small town, there is always a big shade tree involved. Most people did not have air conditioners so time was spent on the porch or under a tree to escape the sweltering heat. So when I think of a Juneteenth celebration, in my mind, it would certainly take place under a tree.
The center panel of the quilt by Sue Penn provided the perfect solution for my need to make a quickie quilt. I loved the muted colors, and the fact that it did not appear to be an ordinary tree.
I appliqued words to the leaves of the tree and the word “Juneteenth” to the trunk. Four borders, including one made from African fabric and a yellow one to symbolize happiness, make the tree measure 48 X 58 inches. 
After “Celebration Under the Freedom Tree” was machine quilted by Maxine Moore. I added little “free” charms throughout the tree.
The back of the quilt is a yellow and blue African print. There is a hanging sleeve for easy display and a label that documents the quilt.
I signed the quilt on the front and added a “Free” charm. This quilt is one-of-a-kind. It made its public debut June 15th at the City of South Fulton Juneteenth exhibit at the Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road SW, South Fulton, GA 30331. See it in person until July 20, 2024.