About Us

ABOUT CABIN BRANCH QUILTERS..

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Cabin Branch Quilters was formed in 1989 to provide a focus for quilting in Prince William County.

 

The name CBQ is from the C.B. Mining Company.  In the 1800's pyrite was discovered at this site, about three miles up Quantico Creek from the Potomac.  From this discovery to 1919 the ore was mined by the Cabin Branch Mining Company, and from 1917 to 1929 by the American Agricultural Chemical Company.  During its peak years, the mine had three shafts and employed up to 300 workers.  Pyrite (known as "fool's gold") was mined to extract the sulfur content to produce sulfuric acid, which was a crucial industrial chemical used to make a variety of products, including fertilizer, soap, textiles, paper, and most importantly, gunpowder for World War I. 

 

For about 31 years the Cabin Branch Mine was the basis for the economy of nearby Dumfries, which had declined as a port town due to the silting up of the creek.  In 1929 when the mine closed there were approximately 70 structures comprising the “company town.”  The Cabin Branch Mine was closed for two reasons–the discovery of a better grade of pyrite in Spain and a workers’ strike for higher wages.  Since the 1930’s the site has been a part of the Prince William Forest Park and is administered by the Department of the Interior.

 

Through active recruitment and widespread publicity we have grown to over 100 members and welcome new members who are interested in quilting.  We have a wide range of experienced and new quilters which provide for an exciting membership group.

 

Dues are currently $35.00 per year.  We meet at the Lake Ridge Baptist Church in Woodbridge, the fourth Monday of each month, at 7:00 pm.

 

CBQ sponsors educational activities including lectures, workshops and demonstrations.  The guild also serves the community by making lap quilts for the Virginia Cancer Specialists of Woodbridge, ACTS, Hilda Barg Homeless Shelter and the Chaplin at Sentara Hospital and NICU Quilts for sick children in local area hospitals.

 

We look forward to meeting you!

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