OHIO alumna Brittany Hodgson wins national recognition for handcrafted patriotic book

Ohio University alumna Brittany Hodgson has placed third in the prestigious National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) American Heritage Contest, earning national recognition for her meticulously handcrafted book.

As a result of this honor, she has been invited to Washington, D.C., this June to receive her award and certificate during the NSDAR’s annual Continental Congress, an event that celebrates historic preservation, education and patriotism.

This year’s contest theme, “Memorial Continental Hall: Our Monument to the Patriots of the American Revolution,” invited artists and artisans to reflect on the spirit of early 20th-century patriotism. Hodgson’s entry, a deeply symbolic handmade book, reflected the theme through its integration of historic techniques, patriotic materials and spiritual meaning.

“This handmade book is a reminder of the American tradition of hope, freedom, and embodies the patriotic spirit,” Hodgson said. “It was inspired by Isaiah 40:31 and the symbolism of the eagle as a representation of strength and perseverance.”

Honoring heritage through art and craft

Hodgson’s submission, crafted using a 19th-century binding technique, is more than just a book; it is a tribute to America’s legacy. Every aspect of the book was intentionally designed to reflect both historical context and national pride. Its 250 pages honor the upcoming America 250 celebration, and its spine is wrapped in Firewalker Red Bison leather, symbolizing the red in the American flag.

The binding cloth was made from a bicentennial eagle-themed tea towel calendar, which she fused to vintage newspaper using Pellon EZ steam sheets, a nod to the historical textures and visual motifs of the early 1900s. Inside, each page was hand-folded, marked, punched, and sewn with ivory linen thread on a traditional book sewing frame, bringing the artisan spirit of the era into the present day.

When opened, the book’s structure mimics the wingspan of the iconic Eagle Lectern, gifted to NSDAR’s Memorial Continental Hall in 1905 and used most recently during the Presidential Inauguration Luncheon. Bronze corner protectors and acid-free adhesives ensure the book not only inspires but endures. 

A dress, a book and a vision of patriotism

As part of the contest’s sub-theme, “Historic Clothing Era: 1905,” participants were asked what they would wear to the first Continental Congress held in Memorial Continental Hall. Hodgson’s creative vision extended beyond the book itself.

“I envisioned myself wearing a dress made from vintage eagle-patterned fabric. Something symbolic, something meant to inspire hope and patriotism,” she explained.

Academic roots and OHIO influence

With a deep academic foundation from Ohio University, where she earned four degrees including a Bachelor of Social Work, a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Healthcare Studies, an Associate in Applied Science in Health Technology, and an Associate in Arts with a Social Science emphasis, Hodgson developed the research and critical thinking skills that now underpin her creative and historical work.

She credits Dr. Tom Flynn, longtime OHIO Eastern faculty member, with playing a pivotal role in that foundation.

“Dr. Flynn taught me how to conduct meaningful research,” Hodgson said. “That skill set was vital in developing my narrative and understanding the broader historical context of Memorial Continental Hall.”

A lasting legacy

While Hodgson won’t be attending the Continental Congress in person, her work will be celebrated among some of the nation’s most passionate advocates of American heritage. For Hodgson, the honor reflects not only personal achievement but also a deep commitment to preserving stories, traditions and the enduring symbols of hope that define the American spirit.

“Even from afar, I’m grateful that this piece will be seen and acknowledged,” she said. “It represents the heart of what I believe in honoring our past to inspire our future.”