"Celebrating the Fiber Arts: The Helen Geier Flynt Textile Gallery"

"Celebrating the Fiber Arts," is a permanent exhibition that features changing elements.

As Historic Deerfield’s co-founder, Helen Geier Flynt's collection provided the foundation for – and still represents the largest portion of – what is now one of the best assemblages of its type in the country.

“Helen was obsessed with textiles,” says Edward Maeder, Director of Exhibitions and Curator of Textiles at Historic Deerfield.  “She collected a broad range of unique pieces, with a concentration on the more elegant survivals.”

Historic Deerfield’s outstanding collection literally offers something for everyone – from the embroidery enthusiasts to the devotees of costume.  It includes examples of embroidery, woven silks, bed hangings, coverlets, quilts, costumes, and accessories ranging from about 1600 to the end of the 19th century.

Created by Ed Check, theater designer at Smith College, the gallery is divided into four major sections framed by large prosceniums that spotlight the four natural fibers - silk, wool, cotton, and linen.  Within each “stage,” there is a changing selection of objects with a total of approximately 200 pieces displayed throughout the exhibition at any given time.  Fashion plates, paintings, and other graphics give context for the pieces.

“Rotating the objects on a regular basis will allow us to add in new acquisitions, as well as provide protection from the rigors of long exposure to light,” explains Maeder.  “It also creates a compelling reason for visitors to return regularly to see what items have been changed.”

Interactive elements are built-in throughout the show allowing visitors to feel the various textiles. These include “hands-on” or “touch it” displays in each fiber area that present a miniature object recreated using period patterns and historical research.  It was the 1737 probate inventory of Sarah Williams that provided the inspiration for the selection of items.  The daughter of Rev. John Williams, the “Redeemed Captive,” Sarah died at the age of 21 leaving an extensive wardrobe including 9 gowns.  There will also be a shoe display with a mirror across the bottom of the case so that visitors looking at shoes will also be aware of their ‘own’ footwear. 

In addition to the four fiber areas, the exhibition offers several specialized displays and a section dedicated to the life and legacy of Helen Geier Flynt (1895-1986).  Mini-exhibitions highlight items such as lace, shoes, hats, and both men’s and women’s accessories.  Multiple drawer units are used for viewing fragile items, and a special rack will display quilts, coverlets, blankets, and bed-hangings.