Woodlawn’s 51st annual Needlework Exhibition opens on Saturday, March 1 at 10 a.m. Photo by Louise Krafft.
Woodlawn, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, will showcase the work of skilled needlers from across the country, including objects created by First Ladies and First Family members, during the site’s annual needlework show that begins on Saturday, March 1.
“After celebrating the 50th anniversary of the needlework show last year, we wanted to do something special that would build on that excitement and success this year,” said John Riley, interim director of Woodlawn. “This year’s program will feature a blend of contemporary and historic needlework that is as impressive in its craftsmanship as it is in its historical significance.”
In addition to hundreds of high quality needlework items on display throughout the Woodlawn mansion, the work of First Families on loan for the special exhibit, “Needlework and the White House: A First Family Tradition,” includes a rug by Barbara Bush, napkins embroidered by Edith Roosevelt, and Dolley Madison’s pin cushion. Visitors will also see needlework ornaments from the 1991 White House holiday display.
The exhibition honors the legacy of Eleanor Custis Lewis, who lived at Woodlawn and was one of America’s foremost needleworkers, by supporting her passion for needlework and raising funds to preserve her home. The show is supported by Nelly’s Needlers, a volunteer auxiliary that works year-round to raise funds for Woodlawn. Since their founding in 1975, the Needlers have donated more than $750,000 to the historic site.
The needlework exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Monday. The show ends on Monday, March 31. The historic site is located at 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria. During the needlework exhibition, Nelly’s Needlers will be offering lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Entrees cost from $7 to $9. The proceeds will benefit Woodlawn.
Daily admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students through grade 12, and free for children five and under. Friends of Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House are admitted free. For more information, visit http://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org.