This November, Auburn’s art museum, The Jule, launched its inaugural Museum in Motion outreach project, Sew Their Names, in partnership with the Mt. Willing Quilters of Lowndes County Community Life Center. Sew Their Names tells the story of the Mt. Willing Quilters who, after the death of George Floyd, began stitching the names of enslaved persons found in the archives of the Alabama Baptist Church at Samford University. The Jule, in partnership with the Mt. Willing Quilters, presented an exhibition, quilt trail and public events that commemorated the erased and forgotten lives of enslaved persons in Alabama and the Deep South.
Sew Their Name attendees look on as a workshop leader discusses Yvonne Wells’ quilt, “Worshippers at Mr. Willing Church.”
Last weekend, The Jule co-hosted public drop-in quilting events at notable locations in Hale County, including Sumac Cottage, Project Horseshoe Farm, the Newbern Library, and the Safe House Black History Museum. Approximately 115 people ranging from medical fellows to tourists to local artists arrived across two days to stitch names, share stories and bond across community.
“It was a powerful morning with conversations about names, legacy and resilience, while learning ways of honoring spirits in tangible ways with textiles,” said Aaron Sanders Head, an Alabama textile artist who founded the Sumac Cottage arts space. Others described the experience as an honor and forming unique community bonds.
The exhibition and quilt trail was available at locations in Hale County for three weeks in November, with two weekends of community programming. The quilts will be on view at the museum in Auburn in 2026.
About Museum in Motion
Museum in Motion is a community outreach initiative from The Jule, bringing the museum to those within and beyond the Auburn-Opelika area. A traveling extension of The Jule, Museum in Motion builds connections among communities, public programs and educational initiatives.
