Tumbling Block Stars

For several years, I've been collecting an unusual group of tumbling block star block quilts that feature a solid fabric center star. See the center star of this one below

The quilts were made in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and about 20-25 examples have surfaced so far. Most are from the 1880s and 90s. This one has a novelty calendar print dated 1881. Some have very careful fabric selection and color placement as seen on the 2 blocks below with the fabrics in opposite points being very close matches. However, most of the other blocks are more random.

 Lots of wonderful novelty prints including birds and a wonderful cheater print with cats and dogs. See the dog above and he's in from this novelty fabric.