Weaving Her Story: Billy Bannerman, an Appalachian Treasure

Billy Bannerman received a weaving loom as a gift in 1961 and by 1963 she was an active member of the Southern Highlands Handicraft Guild. During an interview in the late 60s she commented, “All I want to do is weave…” and weave is what she did, for over 40 years. Creating thousands of items that ranged from bookmarks to mural size wall hangings; from hundreds of ruanas to one handspun, handwoven, custom tailored, sheepdog fur, gentleman’s sport coat; hundreds of religious and secular wallhangings and so much more. She shared her passion with all who crossed her path. She earned her reputation as a heritage artisan through her dedication to her craft, her mentorship of new artists, and her love of WV. She was active in the formation of the WV Artists & Craftsmen’s Guild, the Mountain State Art & Craft Fair, and represented her adopted state around the world at shows and fairs. As a demonstrator at the 1964/65 NY World’s Fair she shared her love of fiber with the world. Billy left a rich collection of documents, photographs, and textiles documenting her life, her travels, and her passion for fiber. From these resources we are able to piece together the influences and events that helped shape her life from her birth in Rapid City, SD to the bright lights of acting in NYC, to building a home for her family in Cabell Co, WV