The Beginning
In 1978 an exhibition of textiles was held in Romsey to raise money for the restoration of King John’s House – a medieval building close to Romsey Abbey. 300 pieces were collected & displayed and the exhibition brought together several people who went on to organise two more exhibitions of textiles which included some costumes.
The interest generated by these exhibitions led to the formation of Romsey Quilters and the inaugural meeting organised by June Thorpe, Phoebe Bartleet and Grace White was held in February 1983 with eighty members attending. Since then the group has expanded & the membership stands at about 130. Of the original number, seventeen are still members.
The group has established strong ties with Romsey Abbey. A small group of members has been involved in making both banners & vestments for the Abbey. In 2002 a group co-ordinated by June Thorpe made a Jubilee Altar Frontal which was designed by Ruth Issett.
Our acclaimed exhibition of quilts which has been held in Romsey Abbey since 1987, has now become part of the Romsey Tri–ennial Arts Festival and attracts many visitors as well as raising money for local charities.
In 2008 Romsey Quilters celebrated 25 years with a Silver Jubilee Exhibition in many additional venues