On Thursday, February 26, Montview had the special honor of welcoming Mr. Larry Saulsberry for an engaging and meaningful presentation about the quilts of Gee’s Bend. Mr. Saulsberry shared a personal connection to the topic, explaining that his grandmother was a quiltmaker in Gee’s Bend, which made the experience even more special for the students.

He taught students about the history and significance of Gee’s Bend quilts, describing how the women in the community created beautiful works of art using fabric scraps they could find. These scraps were carefully stitched together to form bold, colorful, and completely unique designs. Through his storytelling and book readings about Gee’s Bend, students gained a deeper understanding of the creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness of the quiltmakers.

One of the most exciting moments of the visit was when Mr. Saulsberry brought real quilts to share. Students were thrilled to see the authentic quilts up close and were even able to gently touch them. This hands-on experience made the history come alive and left a lasting impression. Even after the presentation ended, students continued talking about how amazing it was. Montview is grateful to Mr. Saulsberry for taking the time to share his knowledge and family history—the students truly loved the experience.

Principal Sutton and Larry Saulsberry wearing a Montview shirt in the library.

Mr. Saulsberry speaking about the Airing of the Quilts Festival.A quilt that is yellow with black stripes all around. It looks like a maze.Mr. Saulsberry reading the book "Charles  and His Gee's Bend Quilt."A quilt with bright blue squares, yellow and pink design in the middle, and a black outline of the squares.A quilt made of clothing scraps. There are many different colors and designs.A quilt that is green and pink checkered.A display that reads "Airing of the Quilts Festival: Gee's Bend." Mr. Saulsberry standing up in the library asking the students which book he should read first.Mr. Saulsberry reading "Pearl and Her Gee's Bend Quilt" to kindergarten and first grade.