History

The Story Started

In 1983 a group of people gathered to try and deal with the economic crisis by searching for alternatives to employment in the area.

Culture Craft Co-operative which is now Basket Weavers of PEI was a result of this effort as it offered small-scale, meaningful employment to interested people in the area of Atlantic Canada accustomed to employment in larger, vertically integrated companies.

The ‘co-operative’ alternative offered an opportunity for everyone involved to have a ‘voice’ and provide employment directly to the ‘community’ – a caring community where the history, environment, and way of life are highly valued. Where persons who work together using natural materials develop a natural respect for each other and for the earth.

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Mission Statement

The Basket Weavers of PEI Co-operative Ltd. is dedicated to the
preservation of the ancient art of traditional ash splint
basket-making. We will strive to train another generation in this art form by means of a museum and interpretive centre, so as to increase public awareness of, interest in and love for natural wood baskets.

Principles

  • To work in a way that has allowed Acadian, Mi’Kmaq and other peoples
    to make their living in harmony with nature for generations.

  • To ensure that we shape our culture, customs and beliefs according
    to the earth, waters, rocks and forests that have sustained our ancestors.

  • To learn about the harmony and interdependence of all living things.

  • To act in ways that will foster the continuation of the once
    thriving tradition of basket weaving in ways that are sustainable
    and balanced.

Objectives

To be a non profit historical society with a museum featuring a vast sampling of Acadian and Mi”Kmaq baskets. There will also be an interpreitive centre including a tour that will give visitors a better understanding of the many stages involved in the basket weaving process-from harvesting and processing the raw material to adding the final touches in the creation of a one of a kind art.

We will also provide training, education, and basket weaving retreats, workshops and demonstrations. Ethics of harvesting GOAL: The least disruption of the natural ecosystem, to sustain the resource ” for generations yet unborn” To continue the history of basketry for future generation

The programs and services we offer are available Island wide.