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History The beginning of Peace River Quilters' Guild came about through a chance meeting of ladies viewing a quilt show at the Port Charlotte Cultural Center in August of 1987. Exchanging names and phone numbers, they formed a small group which began meeting at the Punta Gorda Women's Club. The Peace River Quilters' Guild was formally organized and the first official meeting was conducted in October 1987. Much growth occurred in the years that followed. The first quilt show, held in 1990 at the Women's Club was very successful. In 1992 the show was moved to the Charlotte County Memorial Auditorium, enjoying even greater attendance. In 1993 the Peace River Quilters' Guild became incorporated. Subsequently, the biennial events became known as the Southwest Florida Quilt Festival. Members decided to make the 1996 show a judged contest. Each successive show has continued to exceed expectations. The biennial shows were changed to odd numbered years to lower the competition of many other shows happening on the same schedule. Education is a primary focus of the Guild purpose and in 1997 the Peace River Quilters' Guild conducted their first quilters' retreat. It was hailed as a smashing success and each subsequent retreat has contributed to our members' growth and enrichment.
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