History

Photo of the house at the time of purchase (1993).

In September of 1992, the The Country Quilter relocated from Manotick to Richmond and is now situated in one of the community's well-known century residences. The shop is carrying on a commercial tradition for the heritage building at 3444 McBean Street, Richmond. Records of the property date back to 1832. The building has been a post office, a shoemaker's, a tailor's and an undertaker's. Under the ownership of Joyce Legault and Ann McLean the house has returned to its commercial use after 40 years as a private home. Joyce and Ann have endeavoured to return the house to its previous appearance by building a front veranda and putting up a picket fence. The shop has a cozy atmosphere - just right for quilts and quilting. There is a fireplace in the main room and a large sunny classroom on the main floor. The kitchen is a source of coffee, homemade soup, and the occasional pot luck lunch for the "finishing school group".

Current photo of shop (2000).

Come in and experience the warm, amicable and helpful ambience for which Joyce and Ann are renowned. Whether you need that perfect fabric to begin or finish a project, quilting supplies, patterns, books, lessons, or some expert advice on colour coordination, designing or finishing - you'll find it at The Country Quilter. Joyce and Ann have a combined 60 years of quilting and teaching experience!!

People Behind the Business

Ann McLean, formerly a Home Economics teacher specializing in sewing and fabric arts, has been quilting and teaching others this addictive art since 1972. She has been a member of the Ottawa Valley Quilters Guild since 1981, and helped organize the start up of the Richmond Area Quilters Guild.