Love This Friendship Block & It's History

I have admired the Friendship Quilt block for a long time.  Recently I stumbled across the history of this quilt block, and it is worth sharing.  This block was popular back in stage-coach and wagon days.  Families were making the long trip west, hoping for a better life. 

It was custom for women to make friendship star blocks for their departing quilter friend. Each friend might embroider their name on the center block, and all the blocks could be stitched together for a memory quilt.  What a wonderful custom and gift. 

Hope you enjoy the story, and consider making a Friendship Star quilt yourself.  Keep in mind they look great in a wall hanging and tablerunner too.  It is also another great use for scraps (hint-hint)

--Ann