Mary Barton (1917-2003), an alumna (Class of 1942) from Ames, was a quilt historian who had gained a national reputation for being able to judge a quilt's age and origin by careful examination. She was inducted into the Quilter's Hall of Fame during the Sixth Continental Quilting Congress held September 29, 1984 in Arlington, Virginia. She was selected for the honor for her contributions "through her collecting, researching and sharing of information." In 1999, Barton's "Heritage Quilt" was recognized as one of the 20th Century's 100 Best American Quilts. Barton donated quilts from her collection to the Living History Farms, Simpson College, the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Farm House Museum at Iowa State University.

The Collection (1776-2003) contains plates of general fashion dating back to the 18th century and continuing through the 20th century. Additional categories within the files include accessories, baby and beach fashions, bridal fashions and portraits, children's and communion clothing, footwear, inaugural gowns, maid uniforms, masquerade costumes, men's fashion, millinery, mourning dresses, negligees and undergarments. There are also magazine issues relating to fashion as well as magazine articles discussing fashion of the Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, and Modern periods.