Bringing the Nation Together One Stitch at a Time: The Great American Birthday Quilt

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — As America approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, all eyes are turning to Virginia’s Historic Triangle—Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. This is where the nation’s story began: the first permanent English settlement at Jamestown, the spark of revolutionary ideas in Williamsburg, and the decisive victory at Yorktown that secured independence. Few places embody the nation’s founding spirit as fully as this region, home to the world’s largest living history museum.

It is fitting, then, that Williamsburg has been chosen as the stage for a truly unique tribute to the nation’s milestone birthday: The Great American Birthday Quilt.

A Quilt to Celebrate America250

In celebration of America250 and Virginia250, Visit Williamsburg is bringing the nation together—one stitch at a time. This ambitious and heartwarming initiative invites people across the country to create quilt blocks that honor what they love most about America. When assembled, these blocks will form a collaborative masterpiece: The Great American Birthday Quilt.

Examples of quilt blocks

The project is being led by Steve Prince, Director of Engagement and Distinguished Artist in Residence at the Muscarelle Museum of Art at William & Mary. With his guidance, and the support of Visit Williamsburg, the quilt will serve as both a work of art and a symbol of unity, embodying the diverse stories, traditions, and values that have shaped our country.

The finished quilt will be unveiled in Williamsburg in 2026 and placed on display at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, where it will stand as a lasting tribute for generations to admire.

How You Can Participate

Anyone—from professional quilters to complete beginners—can contribute a block to the quilt. The idea is simple: celebrate what America means to you. Your design could feature an inspiring person, a place you cherish, an iconic landmark, a historic event, or even a favorite quote.

Submission Guidelines:

Quilt block sizes: 12” x 12”, 12” x 14”, 16” x 16”, or 16” x 20” Blocks can be made from any fabric, sewn or glued Bonus: Incorporate red, white, and/or blue Embellishments like buttons, yarn, ribbon, sequins, or feathers are welcome (as long as they adhere properly to muslin) All blocks must be submitted by November 30, 2025

Once complete, blocks can be mailed or delivered to:

Visit Williamsburg

Attn: Selena Coles

421 North Boundary Street

Williamsburg, VA 23185

For full details, including a step-by-step video tutorial, visit:

👉 The Great American Birthday Quilt – Visit Williamsburg

Participants are also encouraged to share their quilt’s story by uploading a short video to Instagram showing their creative process and explaining what they celebrate most about America. Tag #VisitWilliamsburg to join the conversation.

Why Williamsburg?

The Historic Triangle is more than a backdrop—it’s the birthplace of the American story. As visitors stroll through Colonial Williamsburg’s streets, stand on Yorktown Battlefield, or reflect at Jamestown, they are walking in the very places where liberty was debated, fought for, and won.

By bringing the Great American Birthday Quilt to life here, Williamsburg is once again at the center of national remembrance and renewal—connecting the threads of the past with the hopes of the future.

Meet Your Local Guide: Mr. Williamsburg

Pssst! I’m going to let you in on a little secret… While I am a real estate agent, I’m not your average one.

I’ve built my reputation on being a local ambassador first and a Realtor second. Known throughout the region as Mr. Williamsburg, I’ve made it my mission to help people fall in love not just with a house, but with the lifestyle of Greater Williamsburg, Richmond, and Hampton Roads. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just daydreaming for now, I bring a blend of deep community insight, honest advice, and creative marketing that helps buyers and sellers get exactly where they want to go.

Looking to sell your home in Williamsburg? I take a storytelling approach that goes beyond square footage and granite countertops. I’ll help you showcase your home’s unique story — one that future buyers can connect with on a personal level. Want to see what I mean? Check out my “Every Home Has a Story” series here.

Curious about other Williamsburg neighborhoods or looking farther afield in Yorktown, New Kent, Poquoson, Chesapeake, Suffolk, or Richmond? I’ve helped hundreds of folks find the community that fits their lifestyle and budget.

To connect, you can call or text me anytime at 757-254-8136 or email me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com.

Thanks for stopping by — I look forward to helping you find your next home (or helping you say a fond farewell to this one).

Warmly,

John Womeldorf

A.K.A. Mr. Williamsburg