Jan. 13, 2025
COON VALLEY, Wis. – A vibrant new barn quilt is now proudly displayed in downtown Coon Valley, marking the first milestone in what is planned to be a bright new addition to many buildings in Vernon County. Hand painted by local resident, Debra Cuvar, the quilt is the first of what will eventually form the Vernon County Barn Quilt Trail, an initiative inspired by Debra’s love of barn quilts and her vision to see the beautiful and meaningful works of art displayed on barns, buildings, and businesses throughout Vernon County.
“I would love for The Vernon County Barn Quilt Trail to be an addition to other successful barn quilt projects across the nation,” said Cuvar. “I had the vision and then started my research. I looked up a map of Wisconsin to see who currently has a barn quilt trail in Wisconsin and noticed that Vernon County does not have one. I contacted other locations that have barn quilt trails, and they were more than happy to share their experiences. I have spoken to some of the nicest people who share an interest in barn quilts and am thankful for their input and help.”
The first quilt in the series is being hung on the historic Erickson building in the heart of downtown Coon Valley, home to Coon Valley’s famous Valley Fudge & Candy Shop and Sweet Valley Artisans, where over 50 local artisans and crafters—some of whom are quilters—sell their creations and collections.
Installers – top left, building owner Dave Hirsch of Woodworks; top right, Paul Lewison, Coon Valley, WI. Bottom Left, Linda Schulte, business owner of Sweet Artisans and Valley Fudge Candy, Coon Valley WI. Bottom Right – Debra Cuvar, Coon Valley, WI, Artist, Creator of “Coon Valley Star” barn quilt and Vernon County Barn Quilt Trail Project -Contributed photo 
Building owner Dave Hirsch of Woodworks and Paul Lewison installing “Coon Valley Star” barn quilt in Coon Valley – contributed photo
The new quilt, titled Coon Valley Star, was carefully chosen by Valley Fudge and Candy Store owner Linda Schulte to showcase the vibrant natural colors of our driftless area landscape and those of the historic building in downtown Coon Valley.
“I picked this pattern because the star symbolizes to me the star quality of our beautiful little town and its residents,” Linda commented.
The success of this first barn quilt installation would not have been possible without the support of generous donors and sponsors. Debra Cuvar and the Valley Fudge and Candy team would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the following sponsors and contributors: Coon Valley Farmers Telephone, Glantz, Inc, The Home Depot, and Coulee Rentals & Sales in Coon Valley and the expert installers Dave Hirsch and Paul Lewison.
The Vernon County Barn Quilt Trail is just getting started, and there are plenty of ways for community members and visitors to get involved, including school and church groups and 4-H clubs. Those interested in helping to support the project through donations, volunteering, or purchasing a barn quilt for display can contact Debra Cuvar at vernonbarnquilttrail@gmail.com for more details.
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