Brown Toes™ introduces an exquisite line of keepsake quilts themed from the Underground Railroad. Each quilt informs and teaches history as well as strengthens the cultural stitches that bind our nation together. We call this series "A Reason for Hope." Each quilt in the series tells the story of the secrets and little known code of communication used in the slaves' quest for freedom.

The two quilt designs in this series are entitled "Family Tree Heritage" and "The Arrival". Each celebrates the many differing Americans of all races and cultures that came together to form a secret system that became known as the Underground Railroad.

The Family Tree Heritage quilt features a tree made of bark of six colors, to symbolize the many skin colors of the people who worked together to form the Underground Railroad. Blank panels may be customized by the owner with fabrics or photos symbolizing significant family events.

The Arrival quilt features a stork design and pastel colors that compliment any nursery theme. In the borders of both patterns are symbols that signify the yearning for freedom and hope, passion and determination of the many that came together to answer the call for freedom.

As keepsake quilts, each can be used as a crib quilt, a lap quilt or wall tapestry. They make perfect gifts for baby showers, weddings, anniversaries or any significant family event. Each design can be custom embroidered with a child or family name.

Each quilt is made of the finest quality cotton, and is machine washable. Our quilts carry a one year satisfaction quality guarantee.

In the borders... a key to the quilt patterns.

  Flying Geese. Because most slaves escaped during the springtime, this pattern reminded them that geese would be returning north from their winter migration south. In remembering this, slaves were always reminded which way was north.

  The Sun. This pattern is not an old pattern, but the symbol was crucial to the slaves. The knowledge that the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west was essential to helping the slaves stay oriented and stay headed northward.

  Drunkard's Path. This pattern symbol reminded the escaping slaves to zigzag back and forth over their tracks- much like a drunk- so that they could throw off the slave hunters and their dogs who were trying to capture them. Additionally, because many slaves were captured in West Africa, many still believed that evil traveled in a straight line, and that it was harder for evil to catch up with a person who walked in a zigzag.

  Bow Tie. This pattern symbolized a reminder to slaves that made it to freedom. They were warned not to think or dress as slaves lest they draw attention to themselves and be recognized as escaped slaves- that they should hold their heads high and dress in their finest clothing because they were free!

Each quilt purchased is accompanied by a booklet that explains each symbol and its historical meaning for America.