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The Monroe County Historical Association is pleased to announce the first event in its new “Lunch and Learn Series” on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Stroud Mansion Museum and Library, 900 Main Street, Stroudsburg.

Dr. Janneken Smucker, a fifthth-generation Mennonite quiltmaker, author, lecturer, and professor of history at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, will present “A New Deal for Quilts.”

  • LUNCH — A light lunch is included and begins at noon, consisting of a selection of sandwiches, a green salad, and chips. Water and lemonade will also be provided .
  • PROGRAM — The presentation begins at 1 p.m.
Dr. Smucker’s visually rich presentation will explore how Depression-era federal programs drew on quilts and quiltmaking as part of government relief and public relations efforts.

Her program will feature images of quilts made by Americans in support of New Deal programs. Her discussion will also include images of women working on quilts in WPA Sewing Rooms, quilts in use in precarious living conditions, and women learning quiltmaking from expert home economists in the many federally planned communities and migratory labor camps established across the country.

The quilts themselves are powerful forms of communication, serving as political statements of Americans' hopes and dreams for recovery.

Following the presentation, Dr. Smucker will host a book signing, and quilt-themed items will be available in the Museum Store.

Attendees will also be able to view the current special exhibit, “Stars and Stitches Forever” quilt challenge as part of the America 250 celebration.

Located within walking distance of the Stroud Mansion Museum and Library are two locally owned businesses specializing in fabric, tools, and quilt-making supplies: Pocono Sew & Vac at 567 Main Street and American Ribbon at 925 Ann Street, Stroudsburg.

The cost for the October 3 Lunch and Learn program is $25 for MCHA members and $300 for nonmembers.

Reservations are required
and must be made by Friday, September 25, 2026.
Use the form below.

LUNCH and LEARN

The Monroe County Historical Association’s new occasional series of special presentations features a light lunch, followed by the program.

A NEW DEAL

FOR QUILTS

Saturday, October 3
Lunch: Noon
Program: 1 pm
 Stroud Mansion Museum and Library, 900 Main St., Stroudsburg, Pa.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED by Friday, September 25.

$25 MCHA Members
$30 Nonmembers

Call 570-421-7703 or contact us.
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