Bf923Ec8 8E7A 49Ad 86Eb 83B88D32Aadf E1784044500128 — Emma Pettway and her husband, Melvin Pettway Sr., own the new Willie Quill’s Quilt Studio and Pantry, and the new landmark is having a grand opening on Saturday, July 18. (Stacy Allen)

Gee’s Bend has a longstanding connection with the quilting community of Alabama and now, it’s about to get even stronger.

Willie Quill’s Quilt Studio & Pantry, the newest visitor attraction in the Wilcox County community, has officially announced its grand opening celebration for July 18.

“This is a place to truly slow down and experience the artistry and hospitality of Gee’s Bend. It’s the perfect place to pull up a chair, sip something cold, enjoy a locally made treat and experience the beauty, creativity and community that make Gee’s Bend extraordinary.”
Pam Swanner, Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association Director

Keep reading to learn more about the studio + what to expect from the grand opening.

What to expect at Willie Quill’s Quilt Studio & Pantry

04B5Bf4C D71C 499D 8Ad3 96641916964E — The new Willie Quill’s Quilt Studio and Pantry is conveniently located beside the Gee’s Bend Ferry Landing in Boykin on the banks of the Alabama River. (Visit Gee’s Bend)

Owned by Gee’s Bend quilter Emma Pettway and her husband, Melvin Pettway Sr., Willie Quill’s will offer visitors an authentic place to experience the living tradition of Gee’s Bend quilting.

The studio is located beside the Gee’s Bend Ferry Landing in Boykin on the banks of the Alabama River. The venue will include:

Working quilt studio
Live quilting demonstrations
Handmade quilts + gifts for purchase
Locally baked treats

The studio is named in honor of Melvin Pettway Sr.’s father, Willie Quill Pettway, a farmer, ferry operator, Civil Rights advocate and community leader who promoted Gee’s Bend’s self-sufficiency.

Quilt Studio’s grand opening on July 18

The public is invited for a day of quilting celebration by the Alabama River. The studio will be opened 11AM-5PM and feature:

Quilt sales
Quilting demonstrations
Storytelling
Local food
Children’s activities

Starting at 11AM, the grand opening features a unique event, as visitors are invited to participate in Porch Stories, a storytelling series centered on the theme “Surviving the Season the Old Way.”

Community members will share memories of growing up in Gee’s Bend while children and families participate in hands-on activities exploring local traditions, seasonal knowledge and everyday life in the community.

“For anyone seeking an authentic Alabama cultural experience, Willie Quill’s Quilt Studio & Pantry offers a warm welcome and a front-row seat to one of America’s most celebrated quilting traditions in the heart of Alabama’s Black Belt.”
Pam Swanner, Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association Director