Belmores, The Blanket (2011). Some of the famous woolen mills in the United States and England produced these blankets. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. According to the official company history, blankets had been taken to Hudson Bay as trade goods as far back as 1668. "They had to bring over water and . The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. Second, the age of the blanket is also a factor. 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. There are many factors to consider, such as the color and design of the blanket, the material it is made from, and the size. Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Once the color and design have been determined, the next step is to identify the material. The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is a wool blanket with a series of stripes and points (markers on cloth) first made for the Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) in 1779. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. Both brands are known for their high-quality woolen products, but they each have their own unique style. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. But with their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets ever go on sale. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. This means that each blanket is unique, and takes a great deal of time and skill to create. Prior to the European blanket trade, many Indigenous nations wore hand-woven blankets made of animal hides and furs. W.R. Swagerty, Indian Trade Blankets in the Pacific So if youre looking for an authentic piece of American history, Hudson Bay blankets may be just what you need. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. Belmores. Another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so beloved is because of their distinct style. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. Whether youre looking for a cozy addition to your home or a thoughtful gift for someone special, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to please. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. The Hudson's Bay Company, a fur-trading enterprise headquartered in London, began operations on the shores of Hudson Bay in 1670. The first point blankets were created by French weavers who developed a point system a way to specify the finished size of a blanket sometime in the 17th century. Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. Faribault began making blankets for the U.S. military in the 1890s and proudly continues the tradition more than 100 years later. $149.99. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. 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. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. Dating a Hudson Bay blanket can be easy if you know what to look for. Required fields are marked *. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. The blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. There are lots of small businesses that sell Hudson Bay Blankets, so youre sure to find one that fits your style perfectly. After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it. One of his recommendations included regular stock and trade of pointed blankets. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. But what is it that makes Hudson Bay blankets so special? While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. 110.00 sounds like a fair (not great) price if it is in decent condition. Therefore, if you are looking for a genuine relic from the history of the United States, Hudson Bay blankets might be the perfect thing for you. In addition to being expensive, the blankets are also extremely valuable, especially the older ones. So, here are some observations: *The Hudson Bay blanket is definitely thicker and "fluffier". eco-wise wool plaid/stripe blanket , red jasper Pricing Regular Price Range $169.00 - $289.00 Sale Price Range $117.99 - $289.00 More Colors View additional ECO-WISE WOOL SOLID BLANKET colors The term point, in this case, originates from the French word empointer, which means to make threaded stitches on cloth. The points were simply a series of thin black lines on one of the corners of the blanket, which were used to identify the size of the blanket. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. Shrumm, R. (2018). Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. These blankets are also protected by a unique seal and point system to guarantee authenticity. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. A Hudson's Bay point blanket is a type of wool blanket traded by the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) in British North America, now Canada and the United States from 1779 to present. The classic striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and the blankets are often used as decorative items in homes and offices. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. Even though it comes with a hefty price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket continues to be a customer favorite. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. about the point blanket. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. 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. Both companies sell woolen blankets, but Pendletons blankets are of a higher quality. The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. These blankets are marketed as luxury items, and the company spends a great deal of money on advertising and promotion. However, you should never wring out the blanket. Though the reason for these differences is not certain, it is thought that certain patterns and colours held important spiritual meaning, as well as practical use. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? A blanket thats been well-cared for and is in excellent condition will obviously be worth more than one thats been abused or is in poor condition. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. check out their construction materials before spending your money on them. Today, several mills make different shades. During a job interview with the Hudson Bay House in London, England, that year, Germain Maugenest, an independent and experienced fur trader, offered suggestions to improve the company as part of his service to the HBC. 2. In 1922, the HBC introduced its first commercial blanket coats, which had the doubled-breasted lapels of the Mackinaw and the longer length and hood of the capote. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides Hudson Bay blankets are known to be very well-made and can last for decades. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? It has come to our attention that the quality of production of these blankets is actually quite high. Most Expensively 2023. First, check the label. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). But what makes these blankets so special? Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. Well, it turns out, I was wrong. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so theres something for everyone. Your email address will not be published. The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is a traditional wool blanket that has been around for quite some time. The high price tag reflects this luxury status, and makes Hudson Bay blankets an excellent gift for someone special in your life. The typical dimensions of these blankets are approximately 4 feet by 6 feet, making them an excellent choice for cozying up on the sofa or keeping warm in bed. Theme: News Way by Themeansar. Whether youre looking for a new blanket to keep you warm this winter or youre looking for something to take with you on your next camping trip, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to fit the bill. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. Curriculum Rebecca Belmore Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca First, the condition of the blanket is important. Costco is one of the best places to buy Hudson Bay Blankets because they often have them on sale and you can usually find a good selection to choose from. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. Currently, these blankets are still made and available in a wide array of colors and quality. The production of Hudsons Bay Point Blankets is a true labor of love, and the result is a timeless product that is cherished by Canadians from coast to coast. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! The company is also responsible for introducing the now-famous Hudson Bay blanket to the world. Third, feel the fabric. For more than two centuries, the blanket has been a staple of the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains one of the most popular items in the companys inventory. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Textile Museum of Its manufacture dates back to the 1670s, when the Hudsons Bay Company was granted a charter by King Charles II of England. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. -The blanket should have a woven selvedge along both sides. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. However, other colors may also be used. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. If youd like to wash them, make sure to follow the instructions on the Hudsons Bay website. The thick wool fabric is resistant to wear and tear, and the tight weave means that the blankets can withstand a great deal of use. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. Some scholars, such as historian Robert Boyd and artist and anthropologist Marianne Nicolson, believe that colonial authorities knew that smallpox would spread into Western Canada, and that it would help colonial authorities claim Indigenous lands without treaties or compensation. Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . Chief factor for the HBCs Columbia District, John McLoughlin, informed the company in 1845 to make blankets resembling the more favourably-designed American point blankets: The American Blanket though generally inferior to ours, meets a readier sale with Indians in consequence of its gaudy color and we beg that those we have ordered may be made in respect of color and texture fully equal to the samples. Therefore, when the Coast Salish preferred a purer white colour, the HBC complied. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. The narrative that is conveyed by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is one-of-a-kind for each individual blanket and can change depending on the location at which the blanket was manufactured. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. During the next century and a half, it gradually expanded its network of trading posts west across Canada. There are a lot of different aspects to think about, such as the color and pattern of the blanket, the fabric its made out of, and the size of the blanket. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. they are excellent blankets in cold climates, as are Pendleton, and a couple other brands. While the company has changed hands several times over the years, it is still in operation today and continues to sell its well-known blankets. The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is sure to keep you warm and cozy all winter long! Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. It is the flagship brand of the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), the oldest and longest-surviving company in North America as well as one of the oldest continuously operating companies in the world. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. When buying a Hudson Bay Blanket at Costco, it is important to make sure that you check the return policy so that you can be sure that you will be able to return it if it is not what you wanted. 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. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Trade blankets were made for exchange with Native Americans and are the most common type of Hudson Bay blanket. Occasionally, the HBC would produce blankets for special events or anniversaries; for instance, for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, a royal purple blanket with white stripes and point was produced. These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. How Long to Cook Green Bean Casserole in Microwave. 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? They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. However, to the point, Pendleton has and still does make an excellent product, woven by skilled craftspeople at three different facilities in Oregon and Washington. Wool or cotton is typically used in the production of Hudson Bay blankets. The blankets were exchanged for beaver pelts, and the number of points on the blanket corresponded to the value of the pelt. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. They are made with high-quality materials, so they are very expensive. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. The answer is yes! These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. 3. many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. The Prorsum Poncho is a luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a hefty price tag of $1500. Then, I used extra rinse to make sure all the soap was rinsed out. Shrumm, Regan. But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? Though the points on the blankets did not have an inherent value, merchants during the fur trade often priced point blankets according to the number of points on the blanket, with one point assigned for small blankets and four points designated for very large blankets. Recognizable, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women factors in mind, an Hudson... 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