Uncover the mystery of Acadian weaving

You may know about the German weavers in Pennsylvania, the coverlet weavers in New England, and the overshot weavers across Tennessee, Kentucky and through the Southern Highlands... but Acadian weaving is a mystery to many. To find out about these wonderful woven textiles, visit the Riverbend Fiber Arts Guild on April 14 for a program on Acadian Weaving presented by Debbie Todhunter, a hand weaver and Acadian weaving aficionado.

Acadian weaving has historical roots in French Canada and Louisiana. In their native Canada, the Acadians raised sheep and used the wool in their woven fabrics. In 1765, they were removed from Canada and immigrated to southern Louisiana where they replaced wool with cotton, the indigenous fiber of their new home.

 A young Gladys LeBlanc Clark at a loom. Courtesy of National
Endowment for the Arts. 2011. "Gladys LeBlanc Clark ."
KnowLA Encyclopedia of Louisiana. 

In her presentation, Debbie will discuss the spinning of cotton and the variety of patterns that can be achieved with Acadian weaving and simple, two-harness looms. She'll take us on a journey into the rich history of this weaving technique and via the magic of DVD technology, you'll meet

• Mrs. Gladys LeBlanc Clark, probably the last Acadian spinner/weaver to learn spinning and weaving from her mother, father, and grandmother;
• Mrs. Audrey Bernard, who amassed a vast collection of Acadian textiles, and who herself spun and wove. Her collection was part of the basis for the Complex Weaver's Acadian Weaving Study Group;
• Mrs. Elaine Bourque, who demonstrated the techniques taught to her by Mrs. Clark and regales us with stories about weaving and spinning;
• Mrs. Mary Lynn Jackson, who provides background information about L'Amour de Maman, and shares personal reminiscences of Mrs.Clark and Mrs. Bernard.

Join the Riverbend Fiber Arts Guild on Saturday, April 14, for a look into the unique woven textiles and culture of Acadian weaving. Visitors are welcome.