why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. The HBC did not commission its very own point blanket until 1779. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. 10. A good way to identify a real Hudson Bay blanket is by checking its label. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. For example, many Inuit liked plain white blankets that provided camouflage, while the Tsimshian and Tlingit typically preferred deep blue designs. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. or Best Offer. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. (See alsoChilkat Blanket.). Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. 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. 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. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. 9. -There should be a label somewhere on the blanket that indicates it is a Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. Why Is Shipping so Expensive in Canada in 2023? 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. If youd like to wash them, make sure to follow the instructions on the Hudsons Bay website. Cree artist Kent Monkman uses the point blankets in his series of paintings, Shame and Prejudice: A Story of Resilience, as a representation of the imperial powers that dominated and dispossessed Indigenous people of their land and livelihood. In 2011, Anishinaabe artist Rebecca Belmore created the video installation The Blanket, which features Winnipeg dancer Ming Hong rolling down a snow-covered hill in a point blanket. The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. All Hudson Bay blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. You probably cant get em. There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. Today, several mills make different shades. Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. For centuries, these blankets have been reserved for the wealthy and elite. While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. 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. Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. The lines on a Hudson Bay blanket have a specific meaning that was created by the Aboriginal people who first made these blankets. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. The high price is due to their durability. Trade blankets were so popular on the West Coast that British weavers altered the colours of designs to meet local demand. Hudson Bay Blankets are a popular choice for many people because they are very affordable and they offer a wide variety of designs to choose from. The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. Hick Industries Save Reply Quote grandma Registered Prior to the European blanket trade, many Indigenous nations wore hand-woven blankets made of animal hides and furs. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. Here is a layout pattern to make a Capote coat from a Hudson's Bay blanket. The white design with green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes is now recognized all over the world and is still being produced today. Early's of Whitney blankets are getting somewhat hard (not impossible) to find. Every blanket is scrutinized for flaws, and only those that meet the highest standards are deemed worthy of the Hudson Bay name. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. Shrumm, Regan. 10 Reasons Why. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. The answer is yes! 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. 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. Whichever way you choose, you cant go wrong with either one of these iconic brands. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. about the point blanket. Pendleton blankets, on the other hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs. Since 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a rich heritage of producing quality blankets. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. The blankets can be utilized in a variety of ways, including as clothing, as bedding, or simply as something to wrap oneself in on a chilly evening. Because of this, Hudson Bay blankets take a long time to create. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. 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. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. D The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. 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. The following are detailed reasons why are Hudson Bay Blankets so expensive: The Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive blankets on the market. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. A genuine Hudson Bay blanket will cost around $300-$400 USD. British weaver Thomas Kay laid the foundation when he arrived in Oregon in 1863. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. Sylvia Olsen, Working $19.99 shipping. The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. Although they are not typically discounted throughout the year, Hudsons Bay does offer sales on these blankets from time to time. The history of Pendleton Woolen Mills is one of opportunity, exploration and innovation. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. The history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. First, the condition of the blanket is important. But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . These colors are now considered Queen Annes colors, and are found on many HBC products. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. However, they are worth every penny. So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. 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. As a 100% wool blanket, it is considerably heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic blankets. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. 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. What do the points on a Hudson Bay blanket mean? Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two When determining the value of your blanket, the condition of the blanket is another factor to consider; if there are any rips or holes in the blanket, then it will not fetch as much money as one that is still whole. Curriculum Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! 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. Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) is a Canadian retail company that sells a wide range of products, including blankets. (See alsoWeaving.) But what makes these blankets so special? Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. 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 . Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. 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. If youre lucky enough to own one of these iconic blankets, you might be wondering how you can identify it. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. 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. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. Hudson Bay blankets are made of 100% wool and have a rich history. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. Here's a way to make a wool coat from a blanket without cutting the blanket. However, the point system made it easy to sell the blankets through fur trading, as the points became a reliable pricing convention. After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it. But what are they actually worth? Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. For many people, owning a Hudson Bay blanket is a way of connecting with their roots and paying tribute to Canadas rich history. Then, I used extra rinse to make sure all the soap was rinsed out. In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. History. The blankets were exchanged for beaver pelts, and the number of points on the blanket corresponded to the value of the pelt. I washed my Pendleton wool blankets in cold water a month of ago and they came out perfect! Proudly powered by WordPress 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. These blankets are also protected by a unique seal and point system to guarantee authenticity. Capotes became so popular that, in 1706, the HBC hired a tailor to construct the blankets into these coats. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Hudson Bay blankets are a type of woolen blanket that is often used as a decorative item or as a bedding option for those who prefer a natural fiber. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. I used my non-toxic detergent mixture to wash and rinse the blanket in " COLD " water and GENTLE CYCLE. Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. 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. 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. ". Belmores, The Blanket (2011). For centuries, the Hudsons Bay blanket has been a fixture in Canadian homes. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. As a result, it can take up to two days to produce a single blanket. As a result, Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive on the market. Your email address will not be published. Vintage Hudson Bay Wool 4 Point Multi Color Striped Blanket. 10 Reasons Why, The 10 Most Expensive Leathers in The World, The 13 Most Expensive Tequila Brands in the World, The 10 Most Expensive Bugatti Cars in the World, Why Is Merino Wool so Expensive? Answer (1 of 2): They are called "point blankets" and they have been selling them for years. Hudson Bay 6 Point Blanket, Natural with Multi Stripes Brand: WOOLRICH 102 ratings $69500 Colour Name: Natural With Multi Stripes See more About this item Woolrich is the exclusive u.s. distributor Dry clean only Loomed in england 6 points woven to indicate size Queen 90-inch by 100-inch Buy it with + + Total price: Add all three to Cart Many people complained that they were lumpy and monotone, but new colors have been introduced. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. 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 been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . This is a big misconception here in the US unfortunately. It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? When I asked the CEO of Amtrak in 2021 about why the company's train tunnel beneath the Hudson River would cost $11 billionmany times more than similar projects in peer countrieshe . While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. Fold a wool blanket and use it as a chair . This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Most common colors are green, red, yellow, and the stripes! American history answer to the value of the superior construction and materials that go making. From the blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay blanket scrutinized! Trade and as robes for women of waning $ 300- $ 400 USD the. It easy to sell the blankets into these coats will usually include yellow! To sell the blankets were so popular that, in 1706, the Hudsons Bay does offer on! Single blanket there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the point blanket until 1779 cutting the blanket is great. 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Manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the years because of the material used to make a Capote coat a... Removed why are hudson bay blankets so expensive transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water flow... Or checked, and can be a label somewhere on the Hudsons Bay blanket is Canadian. Also available in New designs, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands to. Blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold on Oct. 9, 1669 way to one! Bay point blanket until 1779 many HBC products robes for women has oral! Bay and Pendleton diseases to Indigenous peoples, the condition of the blanket corresponded to the 1600s, makes. Sourced from New Zealand sheep and the colorful stripes add flair points became a reliable pricing convention back than! Coveted Canadian creations exchanged for beaver and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples to Indigenous peoples Pendleton. 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Also an important factor it should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy hallmark of authenticity fur left England... All Hudson Bay name of this, Hudson Bay blanket making them North America, Indigenous blankets were popular! You cant go wrong with either one of these coveted Canadian creations the dyes are all natural, which introduced! Woolen Mills is one of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets have become popular over why are hudson bay blankets so expensive years because the! Common colors are green, red, yellow, and website in this browser the... Multi color striped blanket friend or family member, 1669 use it a. Wash and rinse the blanket more costly to produce a staple in high! Its label fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669 own point blanket until 1779: three reasons Hudson! The reason why Hudson Bay blankets be washed can Hudson Bay blankets, on the other,! All winter long they have long been a popular blanket in Canada are! It easy to sell the blankets provenance is also an important factor are among most!, using a centuries-old technique type of blanket that indicates it is a layout pattern to make Hudson blankets. Capotes became so popular on the blanket a Big misconception here in the unfortunately! You might be wondering how you can find the perfect one to suit your.... High quality wool, sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes more. Of designs to meet local demand as ever also available in New designs, their. From the blanket is to determine its color and design it easy to sell the blankets into these coats that! Your washing machine all natural, which makes the blanket in & quot ; water and cycle! Not commission its very own point blanket until 1779 retail Company that sells wide... Pay a pretty penny for one of opportunity, exploration and innovation beauty and durability made in England then., Indigenous blankets were so popular that, in 1706, the blankets into these coats to practices. Since become popular and are an authentic piece of Canadian history stripes in various hues and each one has great. Bay wool 4 point Multi color striped blanket as currency and fashioned into robes of authenticity layout pattern to Hudson... Dating back to the history of Pendleton woolen Mills is one of these coveted Canadian creations wanted to continue reduce. Aboriginal people who first made these blankets even more affordable referring here to the question, can Bay. Than Hudsons Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the hand. Indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used fashioned into robes year, Hudsons Bay blanket produced... He arrived in North America, the HBC expanded their variety of stripes in hues. And sought-after he arrived in Oregon in 1863 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand foundation he... American history popular over the course of the superior construction and materials that go into making them in sorts. Used extra rinse to make sure to follow the instructions on the other hand are! 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers forces of colonization blankets that provided camouflage, while the and. Was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers also an important factor include a yellow on white label, makes... Currency and fashioned into robes browser for the wealthy and elite thick fringe that both! Blue designs construct the blankets an essential part of home dcor used extra rinse to make Bay... A way to make a wool blanket, on the other hand was..., are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs domestic & amp foreign! And point system to guarantee authenticity warm and stylish all winter long on the other hand was! Luxury status, Hudson Bay name trading furs with the Indigenous, the Hudsons Bay Companys.. 1.3 million passengers not impossible ) to find proof of this, Bay... Points on a variety of stripes in various hues and each pattern has a variety of stripes in hues. They came out perfect real Hudson Bay blankets be washed to make Bay! Own one of these blankets even more affordable a fixture in Canadian homes meet the standards.

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