The following is a statement released by the Town of Orangeville.
What began as a grassroots project in early 2022 has grown beyond expectation as the Orangeville Public Library’s Poppy Project enters the final steps towards completion.
On Tuesday night, members of the community came together to attach the handmade poppies to the four panels that will adorn the clock tower in downtown Orangeville.
The incredible volunteers who came out to help attached just over 3,000 handmade crochet and knit poppies to panels! These panels will be attached to the clock tower during the period of Remembrance.
This special project was created in consultation with the Orangeville Legion – Royal Canadian Legion Branch 233.
Here’s a few facts about the project:
• It was spearheaded by community champion, Laura Austin, after she heard about similar projects in other communities.
• Many different community groups and individuals have been involved in the project, crocheting and knitting the poppies you see in the photos below.
• In order to put this project together, the library had to receive authorization for use of the poppy – this is because the poppy image is actually trademarked!
• The project received congratulations from the Minister of Veterans Affairs.
• The poppies can ONLY be displayed during the Remembrance Period
• A lot of hard work, passion, and community spirit has gone into this project, and is a unique way for Orangeville to pay respect to our veterans and those whose lives have been lost.
“It’s been absolutely incredible to see the excitement and passion of the community around this project,” said Darla Fraser, CEO, Orangeville Public Library. “We have so many poppies, and they just keep coming in. This will be a truly inspirational and beautiful tribute in our downtown to service members past, present and future.”
The project exceeded its target of 2022 handmade poppies, with more than 3,000 being provided by incredible local crafters.
It’s been more than just individual members of the community who have stepped up to provide poppies – many community organizations including church groups, the Lord Dufferin Centre, local seniors groups, Orange thREADS, horticultural society, and local Brownies and Scouts have donated as part of this incredible project.
