1981 Quilting

Competition 

In 1981, Baltimore City Hall hosted a citywide quilt competition, showcasing quilts that celebrated the city through themes like transportation, architecture, industry, people, and plants and animals. 

45 years later, in 2026, we’re honoring that legacy with a new competition.

Image is the original call for quilt makers in 1981. The event was sponsored by Mayor Schaefer’s office. Gift from Mimi Dietrich.

1981 Grand Prize

winner features

Baltimore’s marble steps

Prize Winners 1981
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Wise, Gabrielle. "Quilts Cover the City's Landmarks, Neighborhoods." The Baltimore Sun. June 6, 1981.

Wise, Gabrielle. "Quilts Cover the City's Landmarks, Neighborhoods." The Baltimore Sun. June 6, 1981.

Cover of the invitation

Cover of the invitation

Invitation from the Mayor in 1981

Invitation from the Mayor in 1981

"White Steps Quilt Fetches $1,500 Prize." July 21, 1981 The Baltimore Sun

"White Steps Quilt Fetches $1,500 Prize." July 21, 1981 The Baltimore Sun

Poster for the Exhibition in 1981. Images courtesy of Mimi Dietrich.

Poster for the Exhibition in 1981. Images courtesy of Mimi Dietrich.

Until 2025, ten quilts from the 1981 competition were displayed in the basement of City Hall; they are now being transferred to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for storage.