In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. Finally, the provenance of the blanket is also important. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. Finally, the size of the blanket must be considered. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. 9. Sadly they no longer make blankets. The Bay Blanket. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. 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. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. Answer (1 of 2): They are called "point blankets" and they have been selling them for years. Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. The high cost of labor is another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. Today, the point blanket is still produced by the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains a popular choice for both function and style. 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. 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 modern version is made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. Shrumm, R. (2018). Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. Hudson Bay is a historical company that was founded in 1670, while Pendleton is a modern company that was founded in 1909. However, they are worth every penny. During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets on the market, and for good reason. 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. These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. The bids for Krytzer's blanket climbed from its opening price of $150,000 to $500,000 to $1 million before topping out at Ellis's final bid of $1.5 million. A few years ago you could buy a new Earlys of Whitney 4 point blanket for around 160.00. The answer is yes! There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. The blanket is made of 100% wool and is machine washable for easy care. They were first created in the 1700s by British traders working for the Hudsons Bay Company. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. (2002). These blankets are often very well-made and can last for decades, making them a valuable investment. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so theres something for everyone. January 19, 2023. The answer is yes! In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories As a way of illustrating the importance of company fur traders to the 100-year-old HBC collection, curator Amelia Fay pulls out three items donated by Julian Camsell, HBC Chief Factor for the MacKenzie District in Canada's Arctic. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their rich history and timeless design. Their origins date back to the 1670s. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. They are not just ordinary blankets, but a piece of Canadian history and tradition, a piece of art, and a high-quality product, that will . In fact, the blanket had become so synonymous with the standard measure for trade that in the HBC records, the term blanket was used to convey a collection of smaller trade goods. Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. Finally, look at the price tag. All Rights Reserved. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. by Eddie Bauer. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. Content Summary. Whether used for clothing, home decor, or even artwork, the Most Expensive Fabric is a symbol of opulence and affluence. 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. Proudly powered by WordPress The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. That being said, they have gone on record stating that they had nothing to do with, nor would ever condone, the practice of distributing contaminated blankets to the indigenous people of North America (w. While this is a very expensive blanket, they have been around a long time for a reason. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. But they had a darker history, too. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Unlike wool blankets, these blankets are made with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and mildew. Another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so beloved is because of their distinct style. There are many factors to consider, such as the color and design of the blanket, the material it is made from, and the size. My . Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. This iconic piece of Canadiana is known for its thick, 100% wool woolen fabric and classic design. Some of the famous woolen mills in the United States and England produced these blankets. Turn a wool blanket into a coat. They can be machine washed and dried, making them easy to care for. In, Shrumm, Regan. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the privilege. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. Even though it comes with a hefty price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket continues to be a customer favorite. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. These blankets were originally produced by the Hudsons Bay Company in the early 1800s, and they quickly became a staple of life in the American West. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive . This Secret Life of Canada episode dives into the history of The Hudson's Bay Company and unpacks the very complicated story of the iconic striped blanket. Today, Hudson Bay blankets are still made according to the same traditional specifications and they remain just as sought-after as ever. The blankets were originally traded for beaver pelts. 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. Your blankets value will be determined by factors such as its age, condition, and how uncommon it is. It has come to our attention that the quality of production of these blankets is actually quite high. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. The history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. Since 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a rich heritage of producing quality blankets. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point 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. The blankets are made at the Hainsworth wool mill, which has been in operation for over 230 years. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. The first step is to identify the type of blanket. Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. A Hudson Bay blanket is highly collectible. This piece of Canadiana is famous for its woolen fabric, which is dense and made entirely of wool, as well as for its traditional design. $149.99. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. Vintage Blankets. There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. Hudson Bay Point Blankets were heavy wool blankets made in the 1700's and 1800's to be traded amongst fur trappers in Canada and the native Indian tribes that lived there. 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. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. Flavian Johnny is the founder of Mostexpensively.com - a blog that serves as an invaluable resource for expatriates and travelers looking for something special and unique. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. Hudson Bay blankets are typically made from wool or cotton. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. A genuine Hudson Bay blanket will cost around $300-$400 USD. How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real? First, the condition of the blanket is important. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. The HBC did not commission its very own point blanket until 1779. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. A good way to identify a real Hudson Bay blanket is by checking its label. So, here are some observations: *The Hudson Bay blanket is definitely thicker and "fluffier". The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on cold nights. But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . During the next century and a half, it gradually expanded its network of trading posts west across Canada. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For starters, Hudson Bay Blankets are incredibly well-made. The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is an iconic piece of Canadian history. You probably cant get em. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. These warm blankets are as iconic as Mariah Carey's lip-syncing, but some people believe they were used to spread smallpox and decimate entire Indigenous communities. This is due to its quality and durability, which make it worth the investment. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! The story told by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is unique to each individual blanket and can vary depending on where the blanket was made. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. But it was in 1779 that the Company first commissioned the English textile mill . From $24.99 $50.00. This is because of its high quality and long lifespan, both of which make it well worth the money spent. The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. $19.99 shipping. 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. 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 Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. Get it by Wed. Feb 15. | As a result, Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive on the market. The high price is due to their durability. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. But what are they actually worth? 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. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. However, other colors may also be used. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. There are a few reasons why Hudson Bay blankets cost so much. In addition to this, they have a very robust distribution network, which enables them to charge high prices for the products that they sell to retailers. In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. "They had to bring over water and . People from all over the world love Hudson Bay Blankets because they are warm, comfortable, and stylish. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. I washed my Pendleton wool blankets in cold water a month of ago and they came out perfect! The short answer is yes. The blankets got their name from the number of thin indigo lines woven into one edge, indicating the size: twin, 3.5 points; double, four points; queen, six points, and king, eight points. Textile Museum of These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. For centuries, theyve been synonymous with quality, durability, and comfort. The bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room. Find fleece prints & solid colors, no sew fleece blanket kits, sherpa & minky at JOANN. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. . These blankets first appeared in Canadian trading posts in the 1700s, and aside from. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. (See alsoWeaving.) The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. Thanks for reading. According to the HBC, the hue and colour order in the famous white and colour-striped point blanket were not standardized until the mid- to late-19th century. Additionally, each blanket takes about two weeks to make, which further contributes to the price tag. In addition, there is still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts, despite the fact that their popularity may not be as high as it was in the past. She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. -The blanket should have a woven selvedge along both sides. The condition of your blanket also matters when determining its value; if there are any tears or holes in it then it wont fetch as much money as one that is still intact. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. The blanket is also available in other sizes, making it versatile enough to fit any bed size. There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. Step #3. There are lots of small businesses that sell Hudson Bay Blankets, so youre sure to find one that fits your style perfectly. The white design with green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes is now recognized all over the world and is still being produced today. Hudson Bay Blanket is a blanket that has been used for centuries by Native Americans. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . The blankets are also water-resistant and can be used in all weather conditions. They are made with high-quality materials, so they are very expensive. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. Third, feel the fabric. Required fields are marked *. Prior to the European blanket trade, many Indigenous nations wore hand-woven blankets made of animal hides and furs. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. The Hudson Bay Company occasionally has workshops where Hudsons Bay Blankets are sewn into classic coats. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? 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