The needlework at Pohick Church was initiated in 1972. Two church members, Claudia Wuigk, a designer, and Joan Stanford-Jeffries, a needleworker, offered their services to start this project.

The Communion Kneelers were the first pieces to be dedicated. They were designed by an artist in New York, and presented to the Church by the Regents of Gunston Hall.

The Chancel Chair Seats were the first pieces of needlework to be designed and worked by members of the Church.

The two banners, The See of London (circa 1774), and the Coat of Arms of the Diocese of Virginia, took three and one-half years to complete, and were dedicated in 1976.

The book marker for the Holy Bible has symbols from the Old and New Testament appliquéd on the blue satin background.

When completed there will be a total of 32 pew seat cushions designed and worked by members and friends of Pohick.

Chancel Carpet Facts

The Chancel Carpet was designed by Claudia Wuigk in 1982.

Mrs Wuigk’s design was conceived with the action of the priest in preparation of Holy Communion in mind, embracing the Holy Table with the same lines of the arms of the priest when he elevates the sacraments, making the Holy Table the focal point, as the sacraments are the focal point. The leaves of the hickory tree are included because the name “Pohick” is derived from the Indian name pohickory, meaning hickory grove. The dogwood flower, which is the state flower of Virginia, is included in the design. The central panel is designed around the dove, grapes, and wheat to signify the church in all seasons. The hickory foliage is represented in spring, summer, fall, and a leafless branch of winter.

The ivy and holly plants with their fruit symbolize the Christian family.

The carpet was designed as a single unit, but divided into 20 panels to be more easily worked.

The names of the trees and flowers depicted in the carpet have names with first letters that spell “POHICK."

The carpet won a “Red Ribbon” at the Woodlawn Needlework Exhibition in 1982.

Please know all needlework was performed voluntarily to the Glory of God and to make beautiful His House.