Quilt Show, Strawberry Social to benefit Florence museum
- Florence County Historical Society members Pattie Gehlhoff, left, and Jan Gehlhoff display some of the quilts that will be featured in Saturday’s Quilt Show and Strawberry Social in Florence, Wis. The annual fundraiser, hosted by the Florence County Historical Society, will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Maxsells Suites and Celebrations. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)
- Florence County Historical Society members Jan Gehlhoff, left, and Pattie Gehlhoff get raffle items ready for the group’s Quilt Show and Strawberry Social annual fundraiser, set for Saturday in Florence, Wis. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

Florence County Historical Society members Pattie Gehlhoff, left, and Jan Gehlhoff display some of the quilts that will be featured in Saturday's Quilt Show and Strawberry Social in Florence, Wis. The annual fundraiser, hosted by the Florence County Historical Society, will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Maxsells Suites and Celebrations. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)
FLORENCE, Wis. — The Florence County Historical Society is getting ready to host its annual Quilt Show and Strawberry Social on Saturday.
The society’s major fundraiser runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Maxsells Suites and Celebrations, 209 Central Ave. in Florence.
The old-fashioned strawberry social takes place on the grounds and patio overlooking Fisher Lake.
“The delicious, fresh strawberry shortcake will be ready for you to enjoy,” FCHS President Karen Wertanen said.
Cost is $5 for the shortcake and beverage.

Florence County Historical Society members Jan Gehlhoff, left, and Pattie Gehlhoff get raffle items ready for the group's Quilt Show and Strawberry Social annual fundraiser, set for Saturday in Florence, Wis. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)
The Quilt Show will feature a new selection of quilts and quilted items on display inside the restored historic home. There is no admission charge to the show.
Wertanen encourages the community to make time to check out the beautiful, handmade pieces of artwork.
A few of the quilters will offer their quilts and linens for sale, with 10% of their price donated to the FCHS, she said.
“This will go to help defray the cost of needed preservation supplies for the displays and historic items,” she added.
Rachel Egelseer will be available to lead tours of the historic home for a donation of $3 per person or $5 a couple to the historical society.
This year’s first-place raffle prize is a handmade quilt by Joan Spears that was long-arm quilted by Patti Wabitsch.
“This is a beautiful, expertly made piece,” Wertanen said.
Other donated raffle prizes include a colorful Amish style hand-braided rug made by Pattie Gehlhoff; a cribbage board made by Matt Dagostino; a cutting board featuring Florence County made by Mary Brunette; two designer insulated cups made by KRC Design; and two donated baskets — one from the Ladies of St. John’s Lutheran Church and the other from Lipinski Laser Works, Cassandra Lipinski.
Raffle tickets are $1 each or six for $5. Tickets will be available at the quilt show, as well as throughout the summer at the museum or from FCHS members.
The drawing is set for Sept. 5. Winners do not have to be present; however, prizes need to be picked up at the museum.
The Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the Florence County heritage. Funds raised support the displays at the museum and the purchase of archival supplies needed to care for donated items.
“We hope to see you on Saturday and thank you for your support,” Wertanen said.
Wertanen also encourages attendees to visit the Florence County Historical Museum to check out new exhibits, including history of the county’s fire lookout towers and Riverside Supper Club. They have also made additions to the Veterans Room.
The museum at 201 Florence Ave. is open from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday through Saturday.
For more information, contact Debbie DeMuri at 714-528-3597 or Karen Wertanen at 715-528-4744.
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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 86241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.