The Decatur Public Library is giving residents an opportunity to see a piece of local history with a display of a handmade quilt created by members of Zonta International in 1976.
The quilt features individual blocks depicting locations and events specific to Decatur. It was originally made by members of the Decatur chapter of Zonta International as a raffle fundraiser, with proceeds supporting dental care for local schoolchildren in need.
The quilt was presented during the organization’s “Snowflakes Symphony” fundraising event in December 1976. Zonta member Shirley Naughton won the quilt and later gave it to her daughter, Leslie Naughton Calnon.
Calnon donated the quilt to the Macon County History Museum in September 2026. It is now on loan from the museum for the library’s display. The names of the women who made the quilt are unknown.
The quilt will remain on display through the end of 2026 in the Decatur Public Library’s Local History Room. Admission is free. The room is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Zonta International is a global organization that advocates for women’s rights, gender equality in education, and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence. The organization also supports educational programs and community service projects.
For more information about the display, library services or the library’s 150th anniversary programming, visit decaturlibrary.org or call 217-424-2900.
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