From 1976 to America 250: The Story of the Forest Hills Gardens Bicentennial Quilt

As communities across the nation prepare to commemorate America 250, the Forest Hills Gardens Foundation has been reflecting on how our neighborhood marked important milestones in our nation’s history.

While 1976 celebrated the United States Bicentennial—the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776—the observance extended far beyond a single day. It inspired a period of national reflection, pride, and community engagement that was felt in towns and neighborhoods across the country.

A Uniquely Local Celebration

The women of Forest Hills Gardens chose to participate in this historic celebration in a uniquely local and meaningful way. After thoughtful discussion, members of the Women’s Club of Forest Hills decided to commemorate the occasion by creating a handmade quilt depicting many of the landmarks and cherished scenes that define our neighborhood.

Members of the Club’s craft chapter individually designed and produced quilt squares using a variety of materials, including cotton, leather, and wool. Employing techniques such as embroidery, needlepoint, hand painting, and collage, each artisan created a distinctive interpretation of a beloved Gardens landmark. These individual works were then carefully stitched together to form the Bicentennial Commemorative Quilt.

“Although those women are no longer with us, their creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit live on through this treasured piece.”

Preserved as an important part of the Women’s Club’s history, the quilt stands as a lasting tribute to both the organization’s legacy and its deep appreciation for the unique character of Forest Hills Gardens.

Landmarks Stitched into History

At the center of the quilt is a beautifully embroidered American eagle, framed by the needlepointed years “1776” and “1976,” with each corner adorned with the Women’s Club crest. Surrounding the center, the quilt features dozens of easily recognizable neighborhood landmarks:

Now, nearly fifty years later, the Forest Hills Gardens Foundation is honored to highlight the extraordinary talents and dedication of these earlier community members, whose work continues to celebrate both our nation’s history and the enduring spirit of Forest Hills Gardens.

Tree of Life — Frances Whalen / Lamp Light, Forest Hills Gardens — B. Merrill

Clock Tower, Station Square — Louise Bock, WSTC – L. McGann

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs – Rita Bianco

Community House, Church in the Gardens — E. Ferd

Christian Science Church — Webb

Emblem, West Side Tennis Club — E. Larkin

Forest Hills Gardens

Burns Street — M. Hussian

Upper Burns St., Mgt. Brookfield

Burns St. — Regina Eggers

Flag, 1776 — Louise Bock

Eagle, 1976 — Louise Bock

Flag Pole Green — F. David

10 Holder Place — Mary Rae

Church in the Gardens

Deepdene

Arthur Ashe, U.S. Open Champ — L. McGann

Greenway Terrace — J.V.

Bell Tower, Church in the Gardens, Podbi Maline

Untitled

PS 101 – D. Marvin

Light Pole, Trees — R. Eggers

Entrance to F.H. Gardens — Belfiore

Tree of Life – Symbol of FHWC

Veteran's Memorial, Remsen Square — Dr. Fiore

Forest Hills Gardens

Terrace, W.S.T.C. — L. McGann

Back of Quilt

× ‹

›