The Bolton Caddow Quilts

Origins

The caddow (or caddy) quilts are thought to have developed from quilting traditions brought over from Europe by refugees fleeing religious persecution.  It has been suggested that the design of the caddows is derived from the Spanish ‘macadow’ or ‘mackado’ quilts of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Method of production

The caddows were only ever produced on a hand loom.  The weight of the yarn used made them unsuitable for production on a power loom, and were always woven from cotton.  During the weaving process two weft shuttles were used, one containing a binding thread and another with a thicker ‘double’ folded yarn, the latter also known as candlewick.

Patterns and Design

The patterns on the caddows are relatively consistent, although the earlier designs tend to be more stylised.  There is nearly always a central motif, sometimes incorporating text or a coat of arms, usually enclosed by a circular design.  This central pattern is surrounded by several rectangular borders of varying thickness and complexity.

Caddows in the Bolton Collection

An index of links to descriptions and images of caddows in the Bolton collection

Further reference material

Other material in the museums collection related to the Caddows:

Heywood Papers

Small booklet, ‘The rules and regulations of the Counterpane Weavers Association est. 26th Aug 1843’

Archives reference number: ZHE/56/11

Illustration

Copy of an illustration of a caddow depicting St Georges church, Bolton.

Archives reference number: ZWA/26/2

Cutting

Newspaper cutting from June 1883 reporting a counterpane weavers agitation over wages.

Archives reference number: FT/14/55

Pattern cards

Pattern cards for caddow quilt designs, including for Manchester Deaf and Dumb School.

Museum reference number: HITW 1906.21.2