Hudson Bay blankets are made of 100% wool and have a rich history. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. The blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. Vintage Hudson Bay Wool 4 Point Multi Color Striped Blanket. Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . All Hudson Bay blankets are hand-loomed in England with the finest wool. When I asked the CEO of Amtrak in 2021 about why the company's train tunnel beneath the Hudson River would cost $11 billionmany times more than similar projects in peer countrieshe . A good way to identify a real Hudson Bay blanket is by checking its label. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. Youll pay a lot of money for a Hudson Bay blanket, but youll have peace of mind knowing that youre getting a quality blanket. This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. It was incorporated in England on May 2, 1670, to seek a northwest passage to the Pacific, to occupy the lands adjacent to Hudson Bay, and to carry on any commerce with those lands that might prove profitable. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. While it is not known exactly when Hudsons Bay Company started selling blankets, it is clear that they have been an important part of the company for many years. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. When it comes to finding the perfect Hudson Bay Blanket, there are a few different places you can look. Hudsons Shop fleece fabrics by the yard in anti-pill and plush fleece materials. Her works have been featured on Good Housekeeping,Next Luxury,Wanderlog,NurseJournal,NewsBreak,ThaiWare,and Yahoo. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. -The blanket should have a woven selvedge along both sides. Due to the fact that they are so thick and warm, these blankets are perfect for making use of during the winter months either as bedding or as clothing. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Older blankets are usually more valuable than newer ones. The Hudson's Bay Foundation and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund have announced that from now on, 100 per cent of the net proceeds from the sale of HBC's famed striped wool blankets will. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. People desire certain blankets more than others due to the fact that they are one-of-a-kind or have a significant amount of history associated with them, and these blankets tend to be rarer. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. From $24.99 $50.00. The Battle For Coziness; 5 5.A Brief History of Canada's Iconic Hudson's Bay Blanket - Mental Floss; 6 6.The HBC Point Blanket: a Canadian . The modern version is made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. The companys Point Blankets have long been a staple of the Hudsons Bay Companys inventory, and they are considered some of the companys most valuable products. The answer to the question, Can Hudson Bay blankets be washed? is a resounding yes. You can safely wash a wool Hudson Bay blanket by hand with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle in your washing machine. Their blankets are of excellent quality in my opnion. $140.00. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. The first time any piece of cloth or bedding was called a "blanket" was in 1340, when Thomas Blanquette, a Flemish weaver living in England, developed a heavily napped woollen weave. The marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is high because the company spends a lot of money on advertising and promotion. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. The blankets are also water-resistant and can be used in all weather conditions. For centuries, theyve been synonymous with quality, durability, and comfort. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. The Hudson Bay Company occasionally has workshops where Hudsons Bay Blankets are sewn into classic coats. If your blanket is older than 100 years old, it may be worth more money than newer ones because there are fewer available on the market today. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. Hudson Bay Blankets are a popular choice for many people because they are very affordable and they offer a wide variety of designs to choose from. Do or don't: Pendleton Blankets. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. $149.99. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. Additionally, the natural dyes used to color the wool will not fade over time. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. 10 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago 2023, Why Is Washington DC So Expensive in 2023. These factory-made blankets became very valuable, says Bobbie Conner, director of the Tamstslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton, Ore., because they were thicker, warmer, and more weather-resistant than what most Native . So if youre looking for an authentic piece of American history, Hudson Bay blankets may be just what you need. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. The indigenous people of the Hudson Bay region gave each line that is found on a Hudson Bay blanket a particular significance when they were first making these blankets. Shrumm, Regan. Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. While the HBC acknowledges that smallpox decimated Indigenous populations across Canada, it states that its company had nothing to do with the use of smallpox blankets as biological warfare. In fact, the company claims that HBC employees tried to stop the spread of disease by practicing quarantine and providing care for the infected. Reason to Buy: The Army Medic blanket by Faribault Military was inspired by the design of wool blankets made for foot soldiers in the early 1900s and is both comfortable and durable. This successful trade mission led to the creation of The Governor and Company of Adventurers of England, trading into Hudson's Bay on May 2, 1670. 10 Reasons Why, Why Is Stanley Furniture So Expensive? These blankets are warm and thick, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and bedding. They were first created in the 1700s by British traders working for the Hudsons Bay Company. But what is it that makes Hudson Bay blankets so special? In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. But for many people, the quality and uniqueness of these blankets is worth the price tag. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. (Top 11 Reasons). (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) These blankets are typically about 4 feet by 6 feet in size, making them perfect for cuddling up on the couch or keeping warm in bed. Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. Proudly powered by WordPress Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. The Mackinaw was created after British Captain Sir Charles Roberts found the winter in a fort near Sault Ste. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. Because each blanket is handwoven, no two are exactly alike. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. You wont be let down in any way! Theyre also highly collectible. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. Today, the point blanket is still produced by the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains a popular choice for both function and style. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. So if youve been eyeing a Hudsons Bay blanket but havent been able to justify the cost, keep an eye out for a sale. One of his recommendations included regular stock and trade of pointed blankets. Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. British weaver Thomas Kay laid the foundation when he arrived in Oregon in 1863. This is because of its high quality and long lifespan, both of which make it well worth the money spent. Pendleton is another option still a bit too pricey ($200/twin-size), then again I've never seen one, I'm guessing its not as heavyweight/quality as a hudson? Yellow, blue, green, red: those four stripes of colour on the Hudson's Bay Company four-point blanket are as iconic to Canadians as the Maple Leaf. Finally, the size of the blanket must be considered. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. Hudsons Bay Point Blankets were traditionally made in plain red, white, green or blue background, with a single bar (called heading) of indigo on either end. 2. Rebecca Belmore Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. We're on the lookout for one to make our sofa cozier this winter. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! Once it arrives at the mill, the wool is dyed and woven into cloth using a centuries-old method known as pointing.. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? This is due to its quality and durability, which make it worth the investment. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. Northwest: History and Symbolism of a Unique North American Tradition, Columbia: The Magazine of Northwest History The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. The name point comes from the French word empointer, meaning thread. A full point was roughly 10 cm long, while a half point was half that length. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. Every blanket is scrutinized for flaws, and only those that meet the highest standards are deemed worthy of the Hudson Bay name. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Hudson Bay blankets are known to be very well-made and can last for decades. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. Hudson Bay Blanket is a blanket that has been used for centuries by Native Americans. The capote was particularly popular with trappers as the wrap style made it easy to move and hunt in, while keeping them warm. Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. After the fabric is cut and sewn into blankets, it is sent to Canada, where it is sold in Hudsons Bay stores across the country. In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides If not loyalty to the Hudson's Bay Company, and if not colonized sympathies toward a symbol of oppression, then why are these blankets so valued in the west? To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. So, why are Hudson Bay blankets so pricey? Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. First, the condition of the blanket is important. Some of the technology may . about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories The Hudson's Bay Company, a fur-trading enterprise headquartered in London, began operations on the shores of Hudson Bay in 1670. Thanks for reading. They are warm and cosy and are perfect for winter use. Curriculum The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. check out their construction materials before spending your money on them. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. These blankets are incredibly warm and luxurious, thanks to their 100% wool content. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. The most expensive blanket in the world is made by Burberry. For one, theyre incredibly durable. And now Barbie, the biggest name in make . A real Hudson Bay blanket will also be made from 100% wool. But with their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets ever go on sale. -The stripe width and spacing will vary depending on the size of the blanket, but they should all be of equal width. Second, take a close look at the stripes. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. This means that your Hudson Bay blanket will look just as good as the day you bought it, even after years of use. Just be sure to read the reviews before purchasing anything, as not all sellers on Amazon are created equal! As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets in the world. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. Third, feel the fabric. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. The wool used in the blankets is sourced from a rare breed of sheep that only lives in the remote regions near the Hudson Bay, making the supply limited. A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. 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