09/04/2025
In 1903, Clovernook became the first home for blind women in Ohio. Because the Trader family firmly believed, “blindness and idleness are not to be endured,” the women who took up residence were provided training in skilled handiwork including knitting, crocheting, beading and basketry.
A visit to a nearby Shaker colony in 1907 resulted in the gift of large wooden looms on which the women learned to weave. In the following years, Clovernook produced rugs, pillow covers, coverlets, and blankets, which were sold at several stores in Cincinnati, including Pogue Department Stores, and featured at the twice-yearly sales held at Clovernook. Both the handiwork and the weaving gave these women independence, dignity, and a small income. The weaving shop remained in operation for nearly 80 years.
This Bengals scarf is an example of the work produced by the women of Clovernook. Go Bengals!
