Symbolic tribute: Cape Breton Remembrance Day display features 100 crocheted poppies

Symbolic Tribute: Cape Breton Remembrance Day Display Features 100 Crocheted Poppies

The universal symbol for Remembrance Day received a unique tribute in North Sydney, where about 100 crocheted poppies decorate the front lawn of the Wilfred Oram Centennial Library and the North Sydney Heritage Museum on Commercial Street.

Origin of the Idea

Cathy MacLeod from Groves Point, organizer of the weekly fibre lunch group at the library, explained that Paul and Sherry Finney, owners of Escape Outdoors, inspired the project.

“They took a trip to England last year and when she came back, she was telling me that they had seen this display in England of knit and crocheted poppies and I said that would be a great idea for our group,” said MacLeod.

After seeing a photo of the display, MacLeod shared the idea with the group, who responded with enthusiasm and positivity.

Community Effort

The fibre lunch group, which started the project in August, was joined by other community members to complete the poppies. The display was installed over the weekend by Paul Finney.

Meaningful Connections

Many of the 14 members of the group have family ties to veterans, which added deeper significance to their contribution.

“To honour the veterans and kind of in a different way,” said group participant Anne MacDougall of North Sydney. “The poppy is so symbolic of Remembrance Day but to have it in that kind of a display, I’ve never heard of knitted poppies until now.”

Anne MacDougall also shared a personal note, remarking that Remembrance Day has always been an event her family attends at the cenotaph.

Summary

This creative display of crocheted poppies offers a heartfelt and innovative way to honour veterans and celebrate Remembrance Day's symbolism.

Would you prefer the summary to be more formal or casual?

more

SaltWire SaltWire — 2025-11-07