Do you believe everything you read?
If a statement is in print, or even in a letter, we tend to believe it, don’t we? Often, we don’t think beyond the obvious long enough to ask the question, “Is this really true?”
Lately, I have found many historical misstatements, some of them delivered with such energy and gusto, one would be led to think them the Gospel Truth. Now, I must say this:� some sources are better than others, but as our collective knowledge (cultural literacy, too) appears to be diminishing, across society as a whole, we have to be more careful than ever not to take� statements as true. They may not be.
I could go into a lengthy explanation, but for now, I’ll save you the lecture. I just want to alert you to take time to figure out when a statement is fact, or when it is opinion. Some writers cleverly confuse the two. I also want to say that if you read a first couple of sentences and they seem to be “ok,” don’t assume that the rest of the manuscript is “right on.”
Just a reminder:� During the first week of July, most subscribers to The Quilter magazine will be receiving their copies of the September 2008 issue. Newsstand copies will not be available until about July 15. You won’t want to miss my article about the amazing quilt charts of Ellen E. Webster. What a beautiful name:� Ellen Emeline! She may have been named “Ellen” for her Aunt Ellen, and “Emeline” for her grandmother.
After preparing the magazine article, I continued researching her life, her work, and her family. My work has uncovered MUCH intriguing information.
I thoroughly believe in presenting correct historical information, and my study brings to light some extremely interesting data and history. So, as you read the magazine, and see all the gorgeous photos there, keep in mind that as a follow-up, more information is being collected and processed, including significant and enjoyable contributions by other quilt historians, historians, family members, museum officials, and others. This has truly been a group effort! I appreciate everyone’s interest!
I continue to work daily on this e-book, all the while eagerly awaiting the reactions of readers (even if I never know their thoughts). So, in conclusion, I have to say that my most fervent hope is that you will be able to believe everything you read, when I write it. History is too precious to misrepresent. Of course, I also hope you will enjoy the magazine and the CD when they are ready. My gift will be in knowing that at least a few people are as inspired by Mrs. Webster as I am, and I hope that I’m underestimating that count.
Patricia Cummings
