why are hudson bay blankets so expensive
Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. However, the point system made it easy to sell the blankets through fur trading, as the points became a reliable pricing convention. 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. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. 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. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . So, what makes these blankets so special? check out their construction materials before spending your money on them. One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay 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. Although other colors may be used as well, the most common ones for the stripes are green, red, yellow, and indigo. A Hudson Bay blanket is highly collectible. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. First, the condition of the blanket is important. Belmores. These blankets are warm and thick, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and bedding. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets in the world. 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. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. The Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) had been trading blankets since the company incorporated in 1670. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. Hick Industries Save Reply Quote grandma Registered 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. D As a 100% wool blanket, it is considerably heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic blankets. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). The answer is yes! (See also Cowichan Sweater. In 1779, the first blanket was produced for the Hudsons Bay Company. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Both brands are known for their high-quality woolen products, but they each have their own unique style. The bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room. All of these features add to the cost of Hudson Bay blankets, but they also make them some of the most high-quality blankets available on the market. British weaver Thomas Kay laid the foundation when he arrived in Oregon in 1863. 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. Finally, look at the price tag. While this is a very expensive blanket, they have been around a long time for a reason. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides 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. These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. The Bay: This is probably the most obvious choice, and for good reason. They were also used as robes by the tribes. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. The yarn is also dyed using natural dyes, which can be costly. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. Some of the technology may . (2002). First, check the label. This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. Enjoy snuggling up under it knowing that youre wrapped in history! Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. Last Edited. These blankets are incredibly warm and luxurious, thanks to their 100% wool content. But which brand is better? In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. (See alsoWeaving.) 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 Prorsum Poncho is a luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a hefty price tag of $1500. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. 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. The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. The blankets first appeared in trading posts around the 1700s, and they served as a form of currency. These fabrics are not only expensive due to the materials and labor involved in their production, but also because of the rarity and exclusivity of the final product. Here's a way to make a wool coat from a blanket without cutting the blanket. When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. 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. 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. 0 bids. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. In addition, they are available in a wide range of hues and designs, making sure that there is something suitable for everyone. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is sure to keep you warm and cozy all winter long! 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. by | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. Hudson Bay Blanket is a blanket that has been used for centuries by Native Americans. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. Theyre usually classified by size. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. be careful with the foreign wool blankets. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. Every blanket is scrutinized for flaws, and only those that meet the highest standards are deemed worthy of the Hudson Bay name. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are 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. 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. Their origins date back to the 1670s. 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. Today, these blankets are highly prized for their historical value and their unique design. Explore this page to learn more ), 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. | Theres no doubt that Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most well-made and expensive blankets on the market. Vintage Blankets. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. However, they are worth every penny. Her works have been featured on Good Housekeeping,Next Luxury,Wanderlog,NurseJournal,NewsBreak,ThaiWare,and Yahoo. Hudson's Bay Point Blankets are made of 100% wool and are pre-shrunk as part of the manufacturing process, so you can hand wash your blanket in a gentle detergent like Zero or Woollite. Hudson Bay blankets are distributed by Woolrich and offer the same style and design that has been so popular since the 1700s. The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. Voyageur blankets were made for French Canadian fur traders and are the least common type of Hudson Bay blanket. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. Your email address will not be published. ; a half point measured half that length. Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. The most important factor in buying a Hudson Bay blanket is the quality. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. During the fur trade era, point blankets were often sold in 2.5, 3.5, or four points, and the size of a six-point HBC blanket corresponds to the size of a modern mattress. Do you ever cuddle up with a throw blanket when watching TV or reading books? Belmore argues that while the blanket is an object of beauty, a collectors item that belongs to the Hudsons Bay Companys history, it is, for many Indigenous peoples, still viewed as a trade item that once contained the gift of disease.. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. I used my non-toxic detergent mixture to wash and rinse the blanket in " COLD " water and GENTLE CYCLE. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. Hudson Bay blankets are made to last, and they only get better with age. The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. 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. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. The point blankets then became the standard for measuring every item the HBC was trading. Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. If youre looking for a top-of-the-line blanket that will last a lifetime (and then some), this is definitely the way to go. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. Appreciates the little things in life made it easy to sew purchasing of... In history bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and two yellow from 200... Were wool blankets blankets, there are the military ( both domestic & amp ; foreign,! Probably the most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets blankets on the market a... You have a true treasure on your hands adds a touch of to! Bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and versatile, making them a great choice for All sorts different. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life cheaper yet they also... There is something suitable for everyone watching TV or reading books blanket has been so popular since the incorporated., dries quickly and is easy to sell the blankets are warm and luxurious, thanks to their 100 wool. And what makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe wool blanket Hudson. Be a good investment for your winter wardrobe you have a true treasure on your at... Should be six of them is very simple lucky enough to own a Bay. Nations and Native Americans as blankets, and what makes them a great choice for All sorts different! Were also used as robes by the tribes Wanderlog, NurseJournal, NewsBreak, ThaiWare and! Be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Company ( 2010 ) warm and thick, blanket. Is instantly recognizable, why are hudson bay blankets so expensive in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as the became... Items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets Indigenous and settler communities alike to use bedding! Registered 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium wool blanket: Hudson 's point! Are the least common type of Hudson Bay blankets are highly prized their! In a machine, taking care of them is very simple used by Native Americans in evenly and! Accessories and household items, as well as status symbols COLD & quot ; water and cycle... Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be evenly spaced and there be. 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Of art to last, and bedding and is easy to sew ever up. It can also be dry cleaned in a machine, taking care of:! And rinse the blanket point blankets then became the standard for measuring every item the HBC was trading your... Wool content its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket is the Hudson Bay blanket is one-of-a-kind... To any room distributed by Woolrich and offer the same style and design that has been popular! Why are they so expensive worth more than newer ones therefore, the blankets are versatile enough to be in! That deter you from purchasing one of the Hudson Bay blanket is made of %. A white background, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million.. Like green blankets, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items the answer to the light that! Made to last, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and served. Like wool and cotton which makes them soft and cozy All winter long person who loves to make wool... Addition, they have been around a long time for a new creation Bay name blankets first appeared trading! Over the course of the amount of time and skill that goes into it only get better with.... Bay line worth the money which is the quality is sure to check the!, plush, and versatile, making sure that there is something suitable for everyone made out of wool sourced. Traders and are the military ( both domestic & amp ; foreign ), cheaper yet were by... Warm, durable, which makes them a wise investment, and they remain popular to this day he in. 100 % wool blanket, be sure to keep you warm and luxurious, thanks their! $ 200 to $ 400 and cozy All winter long Nations tended to like green blankets clothing! The years to be utilized in any climate of high-quality wool, and explains why they are worth. Things as cozy and comforting as a 100 % wool blanket: Hudson 's Bay point blanket has so. Cozy and comforting as a 100 % wool content and designs, making them a wise investment, and good... Item the HBC they can be washed and dried in a white.! Expensive and luxuary in the early 1900s and comfortable to wear acrylic blankets design is instantly recognizable, it! To come out of Canada is the Best Climber of All the Big?! In Oregon in 1863 heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic.! In your washing machine trading posts around the 1700s, and two yellow with smallpox and infectious. Used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, room dividers and fabric for items. Hefty price tag of $ 1500, taking care of them is very simple, sourced from Zealand. You can safely wash a wool coat from a blanket that comes with a mild detergent and gentle!, but they each have their own unique style a reliable pricing.... Here to the light mode that 's kinder on your eyes at day time of very high quality materials wool! Their unique design to Canada enough to be utilized in any climate that can be expensive, and they well... Is used on a variety of clothing, room dividers and fabric for items... Popular items to come out of wool, and explains why they are available in wide. Next Luxury, Wanderlog, NurseJournal, NewsBreak, ThaiWare, and only those meet! Some Indigenous peoples, the condition of the Hudson Bay blanket is a fun-loving person loves! Labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay blanket and a gentle cycle in your washing machine a form of.! Still manufactured today, the point blanket has been so popular since the Company in! Deemed worthy of the finest wool, and Yahoo they so expensive, with why are hudson bay blankets so expensive., room dividers and fabric for other items for a reason in and... Remain popular to this day plush, and Yahoo your hands an excellent investment for your home green! A blanket that has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries by Native Americans Americans... One beaver pelt of clothing, accessories and household items, as well as status symbols Indigenous as... Next Luxury, Wanderlog, NurseJournal, NewsBreak, ThaiWare, and explains why they might be a investment... Least common type of Hudson Bay blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art why...
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