08/13/2026
"Meet the Makers"
Thank you so much for all the love and support for our new barn quilt.
We thought we should take the time to give a special shout-out to our "Barn Quilt Committee"
Our committee consists of Director Ken Voakes, Memberships Kathy Badlan, and Vice President Bernie Meloche.
Earlier this year it was brought up in our meetings about the thought of doing a barn quilt, and as much as everyone loved the idea, our self proclaimed committee took it upon themselves to make sure it happened!
Ken Voakes and Kathy Badlan are both long time members of our Museum, as for Bernie Meloche, he may not have been around as long, but his family has had long ties in both the Museum and Co-An Park.
Thanks to the generous donations from the museum, and all three committee members we were able to get things started. Bernie was able to get the bulk of materials to start the project. Once we got the materials at the museum that's when Ken with the help of Bernie were able to paint the whole quilt with a solid base coat of white to make sure it will stand the test of time. After the base coat was dry, Ken was able to trace the quilt pattern and center design. Once the design was ready to go that's when Kathy and Ken were able to show off their true artistic skills! While Kathy and Ken were busy being Picasso's, Bernie was able to prove that he CAN keep it between the lines. After what felt like forever, it was finally done, and we were able to really appreciate what we accomplished.
This all started with a conversation, and it ended with a statement! The town of Essex even added us to their digital driving tour of Barn Quilts around Essex County.
"The Essex Steam Engine Star"
