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 heartfelt touch 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.

Origination and Inspiration

Cathy MacLeod, organizer of the weekly fibre lunch group at the library from Groves Point, shared that the idea came from Paul and Sherry Finney, owners of Escape Outdoors. After a trip to England, Sherry returned inspired by a knit and crocheted poppy display they had seen there.

“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.

Community Effort and Participation

The fibre lunch group began the project in August, with some help from other community members. The finished poppies were arranged into the display by Paul Finney during the weekend.

The group includes 14 members, many related to veterans, adding special meaning to their work.
They viewed the display as a unique way to honor veterans through a creative symbol.

“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.

“As far as my family, Remembrance Day has always been an event that we always attend at the cenotaph.”

Significance of the Display

This initiative highlights the emotional connection between the community and Remembrance Day, using handcrafted poppies as a unique and meaningful tribute to veterans.

Author’s summary: A community in North Sydney created a touching Remembrance Day tribute with 100 crocheted poppies, blending tradition with creativity to honor veterans meaningfully.

SaltWire — 2025-11-07