The West Escambia Chapter of the American Red Cross will have a unique show of quilts at Heritage Park on June 12 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Every year the local Red Cross raises funds to be used in this area in the event of a hurricane, fire or other disasters. The money raised here, stays here, according to Joan Hackman, director of the West Escambia Chapter.

Hackman said she is very excited about the response she has received about the quilt show.

“It has been no problem at all to get plenty of quilts,” Hackman said. “As soon as we let it be known we wanted them to go into this display, they have poured in. In fact, there are so many of them that we have had to pick and choose.

“Every quilt has a story behind it,” she added. “In the early days of our country, quilts were made of materials that were available because there was a need of something to keep people warm. Quilts have evolved into an art form. We will have some of both in our show. We have big and little quilts and things made out of quilts, such as dolls and teddy bears. There is a story, and usually a memory, behind each one.”

The quilts, about 30, will be displayed in the Watson Cabin in Heritage Park and a low tea will be served inside the Peavy-Webb building. Tickets will be available for a $10 donation. The proceeds go to the West Escambia Chapter of the American Red Cross.

“The money all goes towards local disasters such as fires and floods,” Hackman said. “There will be 20 to 30 immediate disasters every year and these funds will help in the initial recovery.”

Most of the quilts will be for display only, but there will be some for sale at the show.