This past week we had one of those Christmas-morning surprises when a local resident delivered two paperback books bearing the handwritten name "Nettie A. Bullis" on the covers. Both books were on the subject of embroidery.
The Embroidery Guide by Helen Martin (published by Woman's Home Companion, Madison Square, New York City, 1910, Crowell Publishing Co.) is full of instructions for making stitches and patterns on decorative items for the home. Immediately, we honed in on a pattern titled, "A Round Between-Meals Centerpiece. A Graceful Arrangement of Poppies Done in Kensington Stitch in Natural Colors," designed by M. Hemingway and Sons Silk Co. (page 19).
Our imaginations shifted into full gear at the sight of the poppies, and we wondered if perhaps Nettie might have embroidered this design in honor of her brother Charlie's poppies. And then we went a step further and pictured the finished product on the Bullis dining room table, between meals, being removed when the table was set for Sunday dinner. This is all speculation, of course...but fun.
Still, we can say that artistic talent is required for both embroidering and growing poppies. Charlie Bullis's poppies that bloom every May are proof of his artistic talent. We have no sample of Nettie Bullis's needle work, but we feel safe in saying that her artistic talent manifested itself in that skill, as well, just as it did in other areas of her life.
Next week we'll tell you about the second book. In the meantime, if you'd like a closer look at the centerpiece in the above photo, please call the library and make arrangements to meet a volunteer in the Bullis Room. We'll be most happy to show both books to you.
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