Jefferson County Historical Society presents Threads of Scotland | The Life & Weaving of Thomas Cranston

June 11 – October 30, 2025 | Exhibit included in the price of History & Art Center Admission – $5 per person (children 16 & under – Free with an adult)

Step into the rich tapestry of Madison’s past with Threads of Scotland, an immersive exhibition celebrating the artistry and legacy of Thomas Cranston (1835–1899), a Scottish-born master weaver whose craftsmanship left a lasting impression on Jefferson County, Indiana.

Born in Scotland and immigrating to the United States in 1855, Cranston settled in Jefferson County by 1860. There, he established himself as a Jacquard weaver, producing intricately patterned, double-woven coverlets. His textiles married traditional Scottish techniques with American aesthetics, often utilizing natural dyes like indigo and madder to create pieces both beautiful and historically significant.

This exhibition features a curated collection of Cranston’s work, including rare coverlets owned by the Jefferson County Historical Society and exclusive pieces on loan from regional museums. A standout of the display is a recently repatriated coverlet returned to Madison by one of Cranston’s descendants—offering visitors a moving connection to the weaver’s personal and artistic legacy.

Visitors will gain insight into 19th-century weaving methods, the importance of textile arts in early American homes, and Cranston’s role in shaping the cultural and artistic identity of the region. Through his story, Threads of Scotland weaves together themes of immigration, heritage, and craftsmanship that continue to resonate in Madison and beyond.

Special thanks to the generous donors and lending institutions whose contributions made this exhibit possible. Deep gratitude to Sally McWilliams, a passionate Madisonian, and John Nyberg, whose dedication to research and curation brought Threads of Scotland to life.