Upcountry History Museum to Host Quilts of Valor Display

What began as one mother’s dream when her son was deployed in Iraq in 2003 is now a foundation of volunteers on mission to cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.

The Upcountry History Museum–Greenville County, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is honored to present a Quilts of Valor display from Friday, July 19 through Sunday, July 21. Two special ceremonies will be held Saturday, July 20, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to award 10 local veterans their own Quilts of Valor.

Since its founding, the Quilts of Valor organization has awarded nearly 400,000 quilts to veterans in all 50 states. South Carolina leads the nation in the number of quilts awarded each year; a remarkable feat since it takes an average of 40 to 50 hours to create one quilt. Volunteers in each state dedicate and donate time, materials and skills to making these quilts, which must meet specific requirements of the Quilt of Valor Foundation to be called a Quilt of Valor.

By definition, a Quilt of Valor (QOV) is a handmade quilt made from three layers: the pieced top, which is usually a multi-colored pattern, the batting, which is the center providing warmth and softness, and the backing, which holds the entire QOV together. The awarding of this quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.”

Any service member or living veteran with an Honorable or General Discharge who served in the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard or are members of the activated National Guard and activated or active duty-special work (ADSW) reservists is eligible for a QOV. Merchant Marines who were activated from 1941 to 1945 and anyone who serves at the Dover Mortuary Facility are also eligible.

The Upcountry History Museum considers it a privilege to host this display in furtherance of its commitment to honor the men and women who have worn a military uniform in service of their country. More information about the QOV organization can be learned at https://www.qovf.org/.

The Upcountry History Museum is located at 540 Buncombe Street in Greenville. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (864) 467-3100 or visit our website.