The Polk County Historical Society provided an opportunity for those interested in the fabric arts to enjoy double the fun at the museum over the weekend.

Saturday saw the PCHS History Museum open to the public for a free day as Joy Johnson came into show off how old style home looms operated and made fabric for families in times before industrialization, and also quilts from makers around the area that also provide a glimpse back into handmade items from olden days.

Johnson talked about how the machinery worked, and told the audience to be looking out for a loom like the one she worked on that was more than a century old and still able to make fabric the same way it did when it was first built in the late 1800s. Old looms are likely hiding in attics and sheds and can be put back to productive use, even if repairs are needed.

Upstairs at the History Museum, fabrics like what Johnson used were on display to show off the variety of style of homespun warmth in the quilt show. Tables full of various patterns were shown off along with displays explaining the way each quilt was put together.

This was just one of the many events happening in June including story times, the Book Club session, and coming up on June 29 is the monthly member meeting with Speaker Selena Tilley providing a program on the connections between Polk and Floyd Counties at 7 p.m.

Check back for more from the PCHS in coming days.