Wheaton, Md – Montgomery Parks unveiled a new handmade quilt honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Josiah Henson on Saturday, August 8, 2026. Tisha Thorne from Sew Creative Lounge in Lanham, Maryland presented the quilt to more than 50 Henson descendants over the weekend at Josiah Henson Museum and Park in North Bethesda. The family traveled from across the U.S and Canada to honor their forebear at their annual family reunion.
Quilters from Sew Creative Lounge partnered with quilters from across the United States to create the 7,000 square quilt. It depicts Reverend Henson’s pixelated image, made up of monochrome fabric squares, each representing a shared stitch in the story of resilience, freedom, and legacy. Visitors can learn more about Henson and view the new quilt at the Josiah Henson Museum and Park.
“Josiah Henson dedicated his life to lifting others up and helping people create better futures for themselves,” said Mia Lewis, a descendant of Henson. “This quilt is more than a work of art. It tells the story of a man whose courage, compassion and leadership changed lives. I hope visitors will be inspired by his example and share his story with others.”
“This quilt transforms Reverend Henson’s remarkable story into something visitors can experience in a new and meaningful way,” said Mark Thorne, site manager of the Josiah Henson Museum and Park. “Having Henson’s descendants here for the unveiling made this moment especially powerful. Their presence reminded us that his legacy is not only part of history, but a living story that continues to inspire people today. We are honored to display this tribute and share it with the public.”
Henson was once enslaved on the former Isaac Riley plantation, now the site of the museum and park, before escaping to freedom in Canada. He later became an Underground Railroad conductor, helping more than 100 others escape slavery, and emerged as a renowned abolitionist, author, and inspiration for Harriet Beecher Stowe’s landmark novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” For museum hours, admission fees, and visitor information, visit the Museum’s plan your visit web page.
Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks manages 417 parks and more than 37,000 acres of parkland. Our parks, programs, and facilities promote physical activity, social connection, and environmental stewardship. As part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Montgomery Parks is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible park experiences. M-NCPPC has been stewarding public lands since 1927 and has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services.
Accessibility
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Program Access Office at 301-495-2581 (Voice/TTY), MD Relay 7-1-1 or 800-552-7724 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org to request a disability modification. Visit Montgomery Parks Accessibility for more information.
###