Shoo Fly Block Historical Highlights

The Shoo Fly is a 9 patch variation originating around 1850. It was named after a wild plant called Clover Broom or “Shoo-Fly”. Juices from the plant were mixed with milk to attract and kill flies.

It’s reported the Shoo Fly was part of the Underground Railroad quilt code indicating people at that location could help direct slaves the right direction from there. 

The Shoo Fly’s simplicity makes it a block that’s historically been a go-to when teaching new quilters the basics of piecing.