The custom quilt block on the Honebrink barn in Belle Plaine is based on one designed by Brian Honebrink’s grandmother Meta Luebke. The original quilt was sold at auction, but stayed in the family as it was purchased by a relative for Brian and his wife Suzanne (pictured with the barn quilt).
Meta was an avid quilter. Utilizing every scrap of fabric available, she made an untold number of quilts during her active lifetime.
Interestingly, this last quilt was sold at an auction, but fortunately, there was no danger of the heirloom leaving the family. It was purchased by Suzanne’s mom and given as a gift to Brian and Suzanne.
Suzanne plans to quilt when she has more time in her days. Meanwhile, besides all the work she has on the farm, she has a custom alternation business in her home. Clearly, she shares the sewing skills of Brian’s grandmother Meta.
The barn was built in 1921 — a typical post and beam dairy barn. The Honebrinks purchased the property in the early 1980s and built an addition to the barn. For 25 years, Brain and Suzanne and their now grown children, milked cows and produced 450 acres of grain — corn and soybeans. Today, their agricultural operations continue, and in the barn, they have started a new venture: a calf nursery.
Meta is now 106. Due to failing health, she is not able to appreciate the excitement going on at her grandson’s farm. Through the Barn Quilt Project, her last quilt continues to bring much joy.
Suzanne thoroughly enjoyed painting the intricate detail of the calico patterns. It is a pleasure to all who tour the county in search of these special quilts.
This Barn Quilt honors Meta Luebke’s talent and love.
Barb Hone is an arts enthusiast, piano teacher, and charter member of the Arts Consortium of Carver County. Her column “Barn Quilts of Carver County” appears periodically in the Chaska Herald. To join the ACCC, go to www.artsofcarvercounty.org or e-mail info@arts ofcarvercounty.org.
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