Dobbin House Tavern to Reveal a Quilted Artwork of the Historic Restaurant by Local Artist

The Dobbin House Tavern has announced the long-awaited reveal of a new quilted artwork of the historic building created by local artist Deb Altemose. The unveiling is set to occur on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at 1:00. When an original piece was stolen from the restaurant several years ago, a search began for a gifted quilter to replace the treasured artwork. Now, after nearly a year of work, the quilt is ready to be presented to the public, who have been eagerly following the progress of the quilt on Dobbin House social media.

“We are happy to present this quilt to commemorate the upcoming 250^th anniversary of the 1776 Dobbin House and the 250^th anniversary of the United States of America,” said Dobbin House owner Jacqueline White. “It is fitting that this artwork showcases the beautiful craftmanship of a historic building and that of a talented local artist.”

In an artistic feat that matches the building of the house in 1776 by Reverend Alexander Dobbin, Deb Altemose has spent the last year painstakingly sewing the quilt one tiny piece at a time. Using a photo of the original structure as a reference, Altemose handpicked, cut, and placed the hundreds of fabric pieces that depict the field stone walls, wood shake roof, brick chimneys, and the surrounding scenery to create the final 20 by 23-inch quilt.

“Being invited to use my skill and passion for textiles to create a likeness of this magnificent structure is humbling. It is a reminder of how local artists can positively contribute to historic preservation and create art that serves as a reminder of Gettysburg’s rich and beautiful history,” said Altemose, who went to Gettysburg High School with Jackie. “This has been an exciting undertaking and I hope the quilt brings joy to all who see it. Thank you to Jackie for the commission, the Adams County Historical Society, and all the local artists that continue to inspire me.”

Gettysburg Custom Framing framed the textile using special archival materials and processing to protect the textile from light, dust and acids to ensure its longevity. The quilt will be on display at the Dobbin House for several years before the Adams County Historical Society takes ownership to preserve it as a part of Gettysburg’s local history.

Photo: Section of handcrafted quilt to be unveiled at the Dobbin House, Sept 29, 2023 at 1:00pm

The Dobbin House, the oldest building in Gettysburg, PA, was built by Irish minister Reverend Alexander Dobbin in 1776, making it the same age as the United States of America. Today his home, looking much as it did almost 250 years ago, is open to the public for dining, shopping and lodging. 89 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA., www.dobbinhouse.com, 717-334-2100.