Beckner family brings Appalachian quilting tradition to Thompson Scholars

MANCHESTER — Students participating in the Thompson Scholars after-school program recently enjoyed a special lesson in Appalachian heritage as members of a Manchester family combined storytelling, quilting and hands-on activities to create a memorable learning experience.

Jake Beckner of First National Bank of Manchester and several members of his family helped organize the activity, which program officials described as one of the most engaging sessions they have hosted.

Dr. Connie Hodge, an education professor at Eastern Kentucky University and Beckner's aunt, read The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt to the scholars, setting the stage for a creative activity that allowed each student to take home a handmade keepsake.

Beckner's grandmother, Mildred Beckner, had spent countless hours hand-sewing individual lap quilts for every scholar participating in the program.

Following the reading, Beckner and Andrew Siler distributed the quilts to students, who personalized them by adding a ghost face and an ice cream blob inspired by the story.

Beckner's grandparents, Gene and Mildred Beckner, were also present to share in the experience.

The family conducted two presentations, one for younger scholars and another for older participants. Organizers said the activity was well received by students of all ages, including teenagers who expressed how much they enjoyed the experience.

Each scholar went home with a handmade lap quilt.

The session also featured local quiltmakers Anna and Liz Cupp, who brought examples of their work and demonstrated the different stages involved in creating a quilt.

Their presentation provided students with a firsthand look at the craftsmanship, patience and creativity involved in a tradition that has been passed down through generations of Appalachian families.

The activity was part of the Thompson Scholars program's ongoing exploration of Appalachian quilting traditions through a partnership with the Berea College Appalachian Fund.

Quilting has long been an important part of Appalachian culture, serving not only as a practical household necessity but also as a means of preserving family history, creativity and community traditions.

Thompson Scholars officials expressed appreciation to Hodge for sharing the story, Mildred Beckner for the countless hours she devoted to sewing the quilts, and Jake Beckner for his continued contributions to the organization over the past several months.

They also thanked Gene Beckner, Andrew Siler, Anna and Liz Cupp, and the entire Beckner family for helping make the session a success.

The activity provided scholars with more than a lesson in quilt making. It offered an opportunity to connect with Appalachian heritage while taking home a handmade reminder of the generosity and dedication of members of their community.