FLOOR RUNNER
CulturePrince Edward Island
Datec. 1945
Geography
Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Dimensions577.5 x 62 cm (227 3/8 x 24 7/16 in.)
Object numberHF.91.52.1
DescriptionA long rectangular shaped, hooked stair runner featuring alternating panels of flora, fauna, and scenes inspired by Island images and landscapes which are featured in the "Illustrated Historical Atlas of the Province of Prince Edward Island" published by J. H. Meacham & Company in 1880. The runner has a black border around the exterior and is made of various fabrics including wool, cotton, rayon, and yarn on a burlap backing. Narrative
Joe Smith from Margate, PEI, was a well-known designer and creator of hooked rugs and textiles. As an avid gardener, his designs often depicted local flora and fauna, as well as Island scenes. He was a great advocate of the rug hooking craft and its practical beauty. This stair runner includes specific reference to the 1880 "Illustrated Historical Atlas of Prince Edward Island" such as the farm residences of Mr. John Sutherland, Park Corner, Lot 20; Mr. Robert Fitzsimons, Long River, Lot 20; Mr. George Anderson, New London, Lot 21; Mr. Lemuel Sims, New London, Lot 21; Mr. Neil McCallum, Brackley Point, Lot 33; Lieutenant Governor's Residence, Charlottetown.
It is believed that Joe received assistance for many of his projects from family and friends. His mother, Florrie, whom he lived with prior to moving to Vancouver, and his sisters, Harriet Meacher and Virginia Kinsman, often contributed to the hooking process.
It is believed that Joe received assistance for many of his projects from family and friends. His mother, Florrie, whom he lived with prior to moving to Vancouver, and his sisters, Harriet Meacher and Virginia Kinsman, often contributed to the hooking process.
