“The Love Boat” is the title of this hooked rug. Designed by Patrick MacPherson and hooked by his wife, Florence (Hall) MacPherson during WW2 in Boylston, Guysborough County, NS
Patrick was a soldier stationed in Italy who was fortunate to be home on leave and got to meet his baby son, Alexander. Florence and Pat were a young married couple who joined hearts and hands to create this rug.
When Pat returned to duty, Florence began hooking their rug. It was a comfort to work on something they created together. Sadly, Florence lost her soulmate. Pat did not return home. He rests in peace in Italy.
The rug is hooked on burlap. The wool yarn is from Florence’s Uncle Will Flavin’s sheep, Boylston, NS. The wool was carded and washed by Florence and her mother, Catherine (Flavin) Hall. Catherine’s Aunt Jane O’Brien spun the fleece into yarn. Florence and Catherine dyed the yarn. The edges are whip stitched with yarn. It is in very good condition despite it has faded over the years.
Florence gifted the rug to their son, Alexander MacPherson. It is truly a family treasure.