IAHC opens window to the past
•May 6, 2026•
Photo by DM Williamee
Weaver Kiri Fagen-Ulmschneider demonstrates
the split-shed weaving of a sampler tapestry.
by DM Williamee
On Saturday, May 2nd, the Illinois Amish Heritage Center (IAHC) held its annual (and newly named) “Sheep to Yarn to Quilts’ event in Arthur. The parking area was packed full, as attendees, both young and old, from near and far, attended the event. One young lady shared she came from Altoona, Pennsylvania, with a group of friends to attend the event and experience the Arthur and Amish communities and learn more about the Amish and their history.
The shearing of the sheep took place in the lower level of the Hershberger-Miller barn, with the animals both comfortable and familiar with the process as their heavy woolen and lanolin-laden coats were sheared off. Those shearing the sheep worked quickly and efficiently, from positioning the sheep to safely maneuvering them throughout the shearing process, which reflected practiced efficiency and years of experience.