Symbolic Tribute: Cape Breton Remembrance Day Display Features 100 Crocheted Poppies
The universal symbol of Remembrance Day has received a heartfelt local interpretation in North Sydney. Around one hundred hand-crocheted poppies now decorate the front lawn of the Wilfred Oram Centennial Library and the North Sydney Heritage Museum on Commercial Street.
Creative Inspiration and Community Collaboration
The initiative was organized by Cathy MacLeod of Groves Point, who leads a weekly fibre lunch group at the library. The idea came from Paul and Sherry Finney, owners of Escape Outdoors.
“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.
MacLeod shared that Sherry Finney brought back a photo of the display, which inspired the local group. The members responded with enthusiasm and began the crafting project in August, joined by other residents. The installation was completed over the weekend by Paul Finney.
Honoring Veterans Through Craft
Many of the group’s fourteen members have family ties to veterans, making the project deeply personal and meaningful.
“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.”
For many in the community, the crocheted poppies serve as both a tribute and a creative expression of remembrance.
Author’s Summary
This heartfelt community effort in North Sydney transforms a traditional symbol into a handmade tribute, weaving together remembrance, creativity, and local pride.