Quilts have left a lasting legacy on the American and internatinal scene, especially since the late 20th century quilt revival. The QHF is located in the restored historic Marie Webster House -- designer, early 20th century entrepreneur, and author of first book solely dedicated to the history of the quilt.

The Quilters Hall of Fame was founded by Hazel McDowell Carter of Vienna, VA, in 1979 as an adjunct of her larger Continental Quilters Congress business. In 1991 Marie Webster was inducted into the hall of fame posthumously. A Webster granddaughter offered her grandmother's house in MArion, IN, to the hall of fame as a potential permanent home. Consequently, the annual induction ceremonies and accompanying quilt exhibits were moved from Virginia to Indiana in 1992. The fully restored Marie Wesbter House officially opened as a museum in July 2004. Eleven of 16 living honorees were present for this historic event. As of July 2006 there are 36 honorees, three are from Great Britain and four are men. Nominations come from the public.