During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. Points were identified by the indigo lines woven into the side of each blanket. If youre looking for a top-quality blanket, youll have to be prepared to pay a premium for a Hudson Bay blanket. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. In 1779, the first blanket was produced for the Hudsons Bay Company. Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! 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. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets on the market, and for good reason. Unlike many other blankets on the market, the Hudson Bay wool blanket does not have a smooth fabric liner sewn over its top and bottom edges. 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. 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. 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. or Best Offer. That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. Each blanket is crafted from one hundred percent wool and requires a significant amount of hand stitching. 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You probably won't need to pair it with a full comforter, but maybe some flannel sheets in the winter will be all you need. ; a half point measured half that length. Hudson Bay blankets have long been associated with luxury and status. On Friday, the Hudson's Bay Foundation announced a partnership with the. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. "They had to bring over water and . 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. So its no surprise that people want to know: are they still being made? 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. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Some of the famous woolen mills in the United States and England produced these blankets. The Hudson Bay point blanket has a complex history with Indigenous people in Canada. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. The British and early North American citizens used them to warm themselves and protect their belongings. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. 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. It has come to our attention that the quality of production of these blankets is actually quite high. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. They are warm and cosy and are perfect for winter use. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. 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. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. 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 . Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. Curriculum Hudson Bay blankets are also known for their striped patterns. Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. Thanks for reading. The Mackinaw was created after British Captain Sir Charles Roberts found the winter in a fort near Sault Ste. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. But for many people, the quality and uniqueness of these blankets is worth the price tag. So, if youre looking for a classic Hudsons Bay blanket, youll be pleased to know that they are still being made and sold by the same company that has been producing them for centuries. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. When it comes to finding the perfect Hudson Bay Blanket, there are a few different places you can look. 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. But they quickly became popular among European settlers as well. 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. 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. The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. Vintage Blankets. 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. Hudson Bay and Pendleton are not the same. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. Age, condition, size, and provenance are all important considerations. You probably cant get em. -There should be a label somewhere on the blanket that indicates it is a Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. All Hudson Bay blankets are hand-loomed in England with the finest wool. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. A few years ago you could buy a new Earlys of Whitney 4 point blanket for around 160.00. Belmores. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. Now, Hudson's Bay Co. is redirecting the profits from the sale of those blankets toward Indigenous-led initiatives. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. It still exists as a commercial company and is active in . 10 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago 2023, Why Is Washington DC So Expensive in 2023. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. A good alternative for a little bit more money would be a Hudson's Bay Point blanket . If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . 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. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive in 2023: The Hudson Bay blanket is widely regarded as one of Canadas most iconic exports and for good reason. Older blankets are usually more valuable than newer ones. In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. However, you should never wring out the blanket. The following are detailed reasons why are Hudson Bay Blankets so expensive: The blankets sold by Hudson Bay are among the most expensive blankets currently available on the market. The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? They were also used as robes by the tribes. A month later, the HBC commissioned the Witney mills a collective name for textile mills in Witney, Oxfordshire in Britain to produce 30 pair[s] of 3 points to be striped with four colors (red, blue, green, yellow) according to your judgement. (See alsoWoven Textiles.). Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. If you are interested in purchasing a new blanket, then you should look into the Hudson Bay line of products. The trick is in the drying: you must gently press or blot the water out by wrapping it in towels NEVER WRING THE BLANKET. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. This iconic piece of Canadiana is known for its thick, 100% wool woolen fabric and classic design. Proudly powered by WordPress 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 . Downtown Hudson's Bay flagship stores in Canada are being downsized as parent Hudson's Bay Company strategizes real estate assets with an eye for redevelopment. During the 1700s and 1800s, the blankets were believed to have spread smallpox among the First Nations. 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. Most Expensively 2023. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. The most iconic design is that which is white with green, red, yellow and indigo stripes; these colours are now used as an emblem for the HBC. These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. 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. Find fleece prints & solid colors, no sew fleece blanket kits, sherpa & minky at JOANN. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive . One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay blanket. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. These blankets first appeared in Canadian trading posts in the 1700s, and aside from. Finally, look at the price tag. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. 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. 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. Although other colors may be used as well, the most common ones for the stripes are green, red, yellow, and indigo. History. Harold Tichenor, The It also has a large hood and fringe trim. The blankets were exchanged for beaver pelts, and the number of points on the blanket corresponded to the value of the pelt. Whether you drape it over your sofa or use it as an extra layer on your bed, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to add personality to your space. If youre looking for a blanket that will add a pop of color to your home, Hudson Bay is the way to go. 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. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. Even if they did not intend to use the blankets to spread smallpox, trading blankets easily allowed for the transferring of European diseases to Indigenous people. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. There are lots of small businesses that sell Hudson Bay Blankets, so youre sure to find one that fits your style perfectly. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. 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. In addition to being expensive, the blankets are also extremely valuable, especially the older ones. check out their construction materials before spending your money on them. 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 history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. Additionally, the long history of Hudson Bay blankets makes them highly sought-after by collectors. ), Today, the distinctive design of point blanket strips has been used as part of the HBC Collection brand on products ranging from umbrellas to smart phone cases. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. 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. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. But they have a dark history as well. In, Shrumm, Regan. 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. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_24',179,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1-0');report this adCopyright 2023 MostExpensiveHub.com, Why Is Shutterfly Shipping So Expensive? In addition, each blanket is sewn by hand by skilled craftswomen, ensuring that each and every one is a unique and beautiful piece of artwork. 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