| Bobbi
Hall is a master of not only Nantucket Lightship Baskets,
but also Sailor’s Valentines and Mattapoisett pocketbooks.
The Mattapoisett Basket was created by Gladys Ellis, who
tutored Bobbi on the finer aspects of this art. Even more
elaborate than the Nantucket Basket, Mattapoisett Baskets
are made by weaving pine needles and raffia, accented by
pieces of scrimshaw and with a handle often made of bone.
This style of pocketbook can take two years to make and
cost up to $20,000.
The
Sailor's Valentine is an octagonal wooden display case lined
with fabric onto which an intricate pattern of small shells,
seeds, or other materials are glued. Often a sentimental
phrase, such as "Forget Me Not”, "With Love"
or other words that we use on Valentine's Day are spelled
out in the middle. The shape is thought to have come from
old compass cases carried aboard sailing ships.
In addition to crafting these exquisite
items, Bobbi also teaches these crafts at her home studio
in Scituate, Massachusetts, where she has lived for the
past 50 years. In 1991, Bobbie and her daughter, Meredith,
designed and co-founded the Stowe Basketry Festival, hosted
each May north in the mountain village of Stowe, Vermont.
She is also a charter member of the Festival’s annual
world-renowned faculty.
Bobbi is a member of the Mayflower Society,
having been directly descended from John Howland. She is
also an active genealogist, enjoying the rewards of uncovering
family stories, ties, and secrets. She volunteers many hours
each year as a guide at the John Howland House in Plymouth,
Massachusetts.
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