This October, St. Saviour – The Brock Memorial Church in Queenston will welcome visitors to Queenston Quilts in Pews, a vibrant showcase of quilted artistry set within one of Niagara’s most historically significant Anglican churches. The event “celebrates the artistry of local makers while raising vital funds to preserve our Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake designated heritage church”, bringing together creativity, community, and stewardship in a single uplifting weekend.
A Church Steeped in Heritage
St. Saviour’s is more than a picturesque parish church — it is a living monument to Niagara’s past. Dedicated in 1879 to honour Major General Sir Isaac Brock, the church “stands as a symbol of resilience, remembrance, and community spirit”. Its roots reach back to the late 18th century, when the first worshipping community formed in Queenston. The permanent church, built in the mid‑19th century and later renamed St. Saviour – The Brock Memorial Church, has been lovingly maintained by generations of parishioners “for the benefit of neighbours and visitors”.
The church is also home to a remarkable collection of stained-glass windows, each reflecting deep ties to local history. Among them, the Brock Memorial Window — installed in 1881 — is especially striking. Gifted by the York Pioneer and Historical Society, it honours the York Volunteers who fought under Brock at Queenston Heights. Its “intricate details—from the Brock coat of arms to the banners, cannons, and provincial shields—make it one of St. Saviour’s most striking tributes to courage and history.”
Funds raised through the exhibit directly support the ongoing preservation of this treasured site, ensuring its beauty and legacy endure for future generations.
Featuring the Quilted Works of the Fabrigettes
At the heart of the exhibit are the Fabrigettes — seven talented quiltmakers from the Niagara region who will present an extraordinary collection of 70 quilts inside the church. They are “passionate about their craft and welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the quilts that they will be exhibiting,” offering visitors a rare chance to experience the breadth and brilliance of their work.
Among the featured pieces is LIKE A GIRL, a modern, award‑winning quilt “bursting with confidence, precision, and unapologetic energy”. Celebrated for its bold lettering and empowering message, the quilt captured the Judges’ Choice Award at QuiltCon 2020 and continues to inspire viewers with its call to rethink what it means to “do anything like a girl”.
Another highlight is WOWZA, a bold improv‑style quilt collaboratively created by five current members of the Fabrigettes between 2024 and 2025. This “vibrant work captures the spontaneity, trust, and creative chemistry that define the group” and will serve as one of the centrepiece displays of the exhibit.
Visitors can learn more about each quilter and explore the stories behind their work by scanning the event’s QR code, which links to the Fabrigettes’ full collection of artist bios.
2024-2024 Created by five current members of the Fabrigettes.
More to Enjoy
This two‑day exhibit also features a craft and vendor sale in the church hall, plus a Saturday‑morning bake sale. Tickets are $5 at the door, or five for $20 during early‑bird sales from August 20 to September 25. Come see Queenston Quilts in Pews — a breathtaking feast for the eyes that you truly won’t want to miss.
Event Details
Friday, October 2 – 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 3 – 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. St. Saviour’s Church & Hall, 12 Princess Street, Queenston, ON
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