Explore this region’s history through blocks of quilted color spread across the county.
photographed by Carla Witt Ford
Along the winding, rural roads of Hardy County, vibrant quilt squares appear on barns and other structures that rise from the landscape like stalwart sentinels of culture and history.
Quilting has long been a part of the West Virginia narrative, but barn quilts are a newer addition to our country roads. It is believed that the tradition of barn quilt squares was brought to the region by European immigrants. However, the idea of barn quilts—or barn quilt trails—wasn’t popularized until 2001, when Donna Sue Groves, an Ohio woman who often visited West Virginia as a child, painted one on a barn in honor of her mother, a quilter.
The Hardy County Barn Quilt Trail Project—a project of the Lost River Educational Foundation, Hardy County Tour & Craft Association, Hardy County Community Foundation, and Hardy County Convention & Visitors Bureau—invites community members and businesses to enhance the area through the creation and installation of quilt squares and bring attention to the rich beauty and culture of the region.
The trail is a self-guided tour for curious travelers and eager historians alike. To learn more about the trail and its stops, visit lostrivercrafts.com/barn-quilt-trail.
Ben Mathias Barn
(ABOVE) This impressive 1940s barn is home to a colorful maple leaf quilt square that pays homage to the farm’s name: Lone Maple Farm. 12834 SR 259, Mathias
Buena Vista Farm
Owned by the Leatherman family since the 1800s, making it a West Virginia Century Farm, this stop proudly displays two complementary quilt patterns. 94 Reynolds Gap Road, Old Fields
Donna Alexander Farm
Built in the early 1800s, Hickory Hill is a relic of West Virginia history. The barn on the property seemingly reflects that with its blue and gold adornment. Located off of SR 220, near the South Branch Potomac River bridge.
Loyette & David Mathias
The state bird makes an appearance on this Hardy County barn—the female represented in its slightly browner hue, the male in its brilliant red. 494 Poor Pear Estate, Moorefield
Lost River Farmers Market
Find locally grown produce, artisan wares, and a barn quilt at this stop on the trail! The lovely blue and white pattern is impossible to miss. 1089 Mill Gap Road, Lost City
West–Whitehill Winery
This winery, founded in 1981, joins the Hardy County Quilt Trail with its unique square honoring the grapes and vines that flavor the business. 4484 U.S. 220 South, Moorefield
Artists Marketplace at the Lost River Educational Foundation
This place is overflowing with art, culture, and creativity, so it’s no surprise to find a few quilt patterns here. 8937 S.R. 259, Lost City
White Barn Farmers Market
A beautiful, colorful quilt square that is a must-visit during your journey. Stop by July to December for fresh seasonal produce, too. 1500 U.S. 220, Moorefield
Guesthouse Lost River
Two different quilt patterns can be found at this stop on the trail. Look for one on each of the buildings located at the corner of Mill Gap Road and Settlers Valley Way. 288 Settlers Valley Way, Lost River
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SPRING 2025 ISSUE
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