Necktie Social
Also known as a Necktie Party, a Necktie Social was a public execution by hanging, a term used by cowboys in the American Old West; “Necktie” because of the noose around the neck, and “Social” because of the crowds such an event usually drew.
Necktie Social was also used literally, however, referring to a social event where neckties were donated and auctioned off to benefit charity.
Necktie Parties were also held in celebration of wedding engagements — neckties were donated to the groom so that he could be properly attired as he began married life (a symbolic noose, perhaps?).
Here at Prairie Moon Quilts, we’re hosting our own version of a Necktie Social, and here’s how it works:
- • Many people over the years have donated neckties to the Project. After collecting just over 7800 neckties, I had to stop taking them in, because I have more than enough to keep making quilts with for a while!
- • The neckties are cleaned and prepared for use in quilts.
- • The prepared neckties are being turned into quilts.
- • The finished quilts are donated to charitable organizations to use for fundraising, or sold outright and the money goes to a charitable cause.
If you are a charitable organization who would like to have a quilt to use for a fundraiser, apply HERE. We have several donation quilts underway.
Here are a few statistics relating to the Necktie Social Project. I thought you might be interested in knowing a little trivia about the project.
As of March 21, 2026
Total number of ties received: 7818
Where they came from: 33 different states, 3 different countries
Number of volunteers and donors: 177
Quilts made and donated: 3
Total funds raised: $9460
Also received: Five completed blocks, batting, interfacing, backing, idea book, ~35 yards of silk necktie fabric, and $90 cash to use for purchasing more interfacing and quilt backing fabric.