April 14, 2009
Vol. 39, No. 153

Contact: Barbara Woodford, Alapocas Run State Park, 302-577-7020, Barbara.Woodford@state.de.us; or Necia Beck, Delaware State Parks, 302-739-9175, Necia.Beck@state.de.us.

The Underground Railroad Quilt Code Trip
to Be April 19 Topic at Blue Ball Barn

WILMINGTON, Del. – The public is invited to attend this special program at the Blue Ball Barn in Alapocas Run State Park from 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 19 to learn the story of the Underground Railroad Quilt Code Trip as presented through contemporary African American quilting, which communicates the connection between slaves and their quest for freedom. The program is part of Alapocas Run State Park’s Contemporary Folk Arts in Action series. 

The codes that have been preserved from past generations of slave ancestors provide an important piece of the African American slave movement to freedom. Visitors will meet quilters Ann Martin and Ellen Harmon, whose works are featured in the Delaware State Parks’ Contemporary Folk Art Collection at the Blue Ball Barn.  The program fee is $5 per person, and because space is limited, pre-registration is strongly suggested.  More information and reservations are available by calling the Blue Ball Barn, 302-577-1164. 

The Contemporary Folk Arts in Action series highlights the artists of the Delaware Folk Art Collection.  Visitors will discover the history and creative processes behind contemporary folk art.  Fun and exciting hands-on activities will be available for all. This program is made possible in part by grants from the Delaware Division of Arts, a state agency dedicated to nurturing and supporting the arts in Delaware, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Blue Ball Barn is located off of Route 202 (Concord Pike) and is easily accessible from I-95 and other major roadways.  Park entrance fees are in effect.