Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. If youre lucky enough to own a vintage Hudson Bay blanket, you can be sure that it will be a cherished family heirloom for generations to come. Similarly, a rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Pendleton blankets look beautiful, rustic and all-American; I love the stripes and saddles. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. A genuine Hudson Bay blanket will cost around $300-$400 USD. 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. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. 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. 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. The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. The history of Pendleton Woolen Mills is one of opportunity, exploration and innovation. Shrumm, Regan. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. 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. And today, it's roughly 1 in 8 million. (2002). If youre looking for a blanket that will add a pop of color to your home, Hudson Bay is the way to go. Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. HBC was a fur trading business for most of its history, a past that is entwined with the colonization of British North America and the development of Canada. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. $140.00. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. Hudsons The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. But which brand is better? Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Hudson Bay blankets are typically made from wool or cotton. Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. On the other hand, if one is to take into consideration each of these aspects, it is possible to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket with a fair amount of ease. Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. 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. Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Masters Scholarships at University of Laval is current, How To Recharge Telkom Airtime 2023: Telkom possesses, The PDP Medical Form: One of the prerequisites that, Job Vacancies in Mauritius Post Office 2022 Are you, Capitec Learnerships 2023: Individuals who meet the, Scholarships for African International Students These, The Top 10 Best High Schools In Pretoria 2023: The. 1 1.Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive: Top 6 Reasons; 2 2.Antiques: Invest in a Hudson Bay blanket and wrap yourself up; 3 3.Customer reviews: Woolrich 90 by 100-Inch Hudson Bay 6 Point ; 4 4.Pendleton Or Hudson Bay Blanket? The most important factor in buying a Hudson Bay blanket is the quality. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. 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. But what are they actually worth? Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets in the world. In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. Yes, you can wash your blanket. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. These blankets were made by the Hudson Bay Company in the 18th and 19th centuries. Additionally, the natural dyes used to color the wool will not fade over time. But what makes these blankets so special? 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. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. Hudson Bay blankets were originally made by a contract manufacturer, but todays blankets are made in a factory owned by the company. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. 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 that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. D $149.99. Finally got to try out a hudson bay wool blanket, amazing but too much $$. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. 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. After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it. Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) Trade blankets were made for exchange with Native Americans and are the most common type of Hudson Bay blanket. The Hudson Bay point blanket has a complex history with Indigenous people in Canada. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. So, here are some observations: *The Hudson Bay blanket is definitely thicker and "fluffier". The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is an iconic piece of Canadian history. In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. or Best Offer. Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. 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. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Get it by Wed. Feb 15. 1. However, the blankets design has been the cause of some complaints. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. Both brands are known for their high-quality woolen products, but they each have their own unique style. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. All Rights Reserved. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. Every blanket is scrutinized for flaws, and only those that meet the highest standards are deemed worthy of the Hudson Bay name. The classic striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and the blankets are often used as decorative items in homes and offices. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. Hudson Bay blankets are extremely durable, and will last for many years with proper care. Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. 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. Wool blankets can be washed in a washing machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them. While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. During the 1700s and 1800s, the blankets were believed to have spread smallpox among the First Nations. Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. As a result, it can take up to two days to produce a single blanket. Point blankets were also sometimes used in the potlatch, a gift-giving feast practiced by various First Nations communities in the Pacific Northwest, including the Haida, Tlingit, Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwakawakw and Coast Salish. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. 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. You can also take the blanket to a dry cleaner, but keep in mind that wool blankets are delicate and should not be washed with automatic machines. My . The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. Let's talk alternatives. Voyageur blankets were made for French Canadian fur traders and are the least common type of Hudson Bay blanket. These cozy woven blankets are perfect for snuggling up by the fire on a cold winters night, and their iconic designs make them a popular choice for gifts and dcor. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. Once the color and design have been determined, the next step is to identify the material. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations in exchange for beaver pelts as an important part of the North American fur trade.The blankets continue to be sold by Canada's Hudson's Bay department stores and have . The answer is yes! why are hudson bay blankets so expensive When a classmate in my doctoral program showed up wearing one of his grandfather's plaid wool shirts one day, I totally made him check the tag to see if it was a Pendleton. Thanks for reading. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. 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. (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). 0 bids. Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. 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. 10 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago 2023, Why Is Washington DC So Expensive in 2023. A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. 2. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. The high price is due to their durability. Dating a Hudson Bay blanket can be easy if you know what to look for. As a 100% wool blanket, it is considerably heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic blankets. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories The bold stripes were meant to make the tents more visible from a distance, and they also helped to camouflage any dirt or stains. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. People from all over the world adore Hudson Bay Blankets due to the fact that they are not only warm but also comfortable and fashionable. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! Wool, cotton, and polyester are just some of the modern-day materials that are used in the production of the updated version. 1. While the HBC was not the first to create the point blanket, the company did popularize it among Indigenous and settler communities in Canada. The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. Youll pay a lot of money for a Hudson Bay blanket, but youll have peace of mind knowing that youre getting a quality blanket. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? Enjoy snuggling up under it knowing that youre wrapped in history! 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. How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real? Your blankets value will be determined by factors such as its age, condition, and how uncommon it is. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. First, the condition of the blanket is important. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. 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. Third, feel the fabric. Hudson Bay blankets were originally solid colors with a distinct indigo band. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. Each blanket is crafted from one hundred percent wool and requires a significant amount of hand stitching. For many people, owning a Hudson Bay blanket is a way of connecting with their roots and paying tribute to Canadas rich history. Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. 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 . 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. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so theres something for everyone. You probably cant get em. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. 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. 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. 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