why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! As long as I don't have to carry the damn thing, I absolutely love my Pendleton blankets. The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. There are three main types of Hudson Bay blankets: trade, chiefs, and voyageur. Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? With a little patience, youll be able to snag one of these cozy classics at a fraction of the price. Many people have old Hudson Bay blankets that have been passed down through the generations. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. 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. Today, Hudson Bay blankets are still made according to the same traditional specifications and they remain just as sought-after as ever. ( if they have one). These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. 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. [In-Depth Answer] How Much Is 1/4 Cup of Oil? How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. A good wool blanket is a good wool blanket. Compared to wool blankets, Hudson Bay blankets tend to be warmer. Continue with Recommended Cookies. The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. Manage Settings One of the reasons that Minky blankets are so expensive is because they are made with high-quality materials. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The Hudson's Bay Company blanket is a symbol of colonial Canada, but for Mtis people in the Prairies, it also stands for community, ceremony and survival. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. We're on the lookout for one to make our sofa cozier this winter. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. Vintage Hudson's Bay England Red 6 Point Blanket - 100 x 90 - 100% Wool - EXC. They were also used as robes by the tribes. The blankets first appeared in trading posts around the 1700s, and they served as a form of currency. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. (Top 11 Reasons). The point blankets colors are an icon of Canadian style. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. Although they are not typically discounted throughout the year, Hudsons Bay does offer sales on these blankets from time to time. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. i have a pendleton that was given to me.very warm.its old,and still in good shape.i use it at home onlysentimental value.but i did camp with when i was younger. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. vtg antique 1920's PENDLETON Cayuse Indian trade wool blanket shawl rare. The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. 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. You can find them at thrift stores and yard sales usually for $30 if you keep an eye out. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. It's still in good condition and I'm still happy with it. As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. Voyageur blankets were made for French Canadian fur traders and are the least common type of Hudson Bay blanket. The wool used to make the blankets is sourced from New Zealand, and it undergoes a rigorous quality control process before it is shipped to England. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. where in time is carmen sandiego characters. These blankets are incredibly warm and luxurious, thanks to their 100% wool content. One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay blanket. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Shrumm, R. (2018). Trade blankets were made for exchange with Native Americans and are the most common type of Hudson Bay blanket. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . (See alsoChilkat Blanket.). If your blanket is older than 100 years old, it may be worth more money than newer ones because there are fewer available on the market today. Harold Tichenor, The 1. Amazon: Amazon also has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets, and they often have them at very reasonable prices. Their 5-colour wool blankets are considered iconic here, and they frequently are the official supplier for Canadian Olympic apparel. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. The Mackinaw was created after British Captain Sir Charles Roberts found the winter in a fort near Sault Ste. Hudson's Bay Point Blanket Collection Fringed Throw 42"W x 70"L with fringe 100% Wool D esign: Price: $145.00 Out of Stock Special Order 100% Wool, Loomed in England Hudson's Bay Point Blanket Collection 4 point Blanket 72"W X 90"L 100% Wool FULL BED SIZE D esign: Price: $370.00 Out of Stock Special Order 100% Wool, Loomed in England Are you threatening me? Washington. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Zelda loves clothes and shoes and is always up on the latest trends. Yes, you can wash your blanket. Its manufacture dates back to the 1670s, when the Hudsons Bay Company was granted a charter by King Charles II of England. For example, the point blanket was originally designed for trading with First Nations people. However, as the HBC moved out into the Pacific Northwest in the early 19th century, there were less beavers around, and therefore beaver pelts started to lose their value as the staple fur. 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.. 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. Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. But what are they actually worth? However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so beloved is because of their distinct style. One variety of blanket is known as a Hudson Bay blanket, and this particular style of blanket was first manufactured in England before being exported to Canada. Because the company invests a significant amount of money in advertising and promotion, the marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is significantly higher than average. First, the condition of the blanket is important. The Hudson Bay Blanket is a type of blanket that has been utilized by indigenous peoples for a considerable amount of time. eNightmareVintage. She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. The story originates in a notorious series of letters from the 1763 Pontiac Uprising in Fort Pitt, Pennsylvania, in which Jeffrey Amherst, Commander-in-Chief of British Forces in North America, encouraged the use of blankets infected with smallpox as a means of biological warfare: You will Do well to try to Innoculate [sic] the Indians by means of Blankets, as well as try every other method that can serve to Extirpate this Execrable Race. While there was an outbreak of smallpox among the Indigenous peoples around Pennsylvania that spring, the disease had already been in that area, and it is therefore unknown if Amhersts thoughts were put in action. This means that your Hudson Bay blanket will look just as good as the day you bought it, even after years of use. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. While the HBC was not the first to create the point blanket, the company did popularize it among Indigenous and settler communities in Canada. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. I have a US Army blanket that has been in my vehicle for 30 years. The Hudson Bay Company occasionally has workshops where Hudsons Bay Blankets are sewn into classic coats. (2002). They are woven on looms with a tight, dense weave, making them resistant to wear. Hudson Bay Blankets Have High Market Demand. What do the lines mean on a Hudson Bay blanket? Typically, the wool blankets were traded with Native Americans for pelts; arctic fox, lynx and most importantly beaver. The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. Hudson Bay blankets were originally made by a contract manufacturer, but todays blankets are made in a factory owned by the company. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets in the world. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. So far the downtown Montreal and Calgary Hudson's Bay stores are confirmed to be downsizing and other flagships are expected to follow if things go as planned with HBC's development arm Streetworks Development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. about the point blanket. 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. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. Get the best deals on Hudson Bay Coat In Vintage Outerwear Coats & Jackets For Women when you shop the largest online selection at eBay.com. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. They are often used as baby blankets or throws because of their softness and warmth. 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. 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. 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. They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. Note: The Secret Life of Canada is hosted and written by Falen Johnson and Leah Simone Bowen and is a CBC original podcast independent of The Canadian Encyclopedia. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. 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. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. Russians and Italians have heavy wool in large size. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive; Posted on June 29, 2022; By . These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. $399.99. 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. Belmores. Hudson's Bay Company 60 by 90-Inch Twin Size 3.5 Point Blanket, Millenium. 10 Reasons Why, Why Is Stanley Furniture So Expensive? i have a couple military wool blankets(USN) that i liberated 45 years ago and i have tried Hudson Bay blankets and the military ones were just as good. 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. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point Age, condition, size, and provenance are all important considerations. Whats more, Hudson Bay Blankets have a rich history. First, check the label. There are a few reasons why Hudson Bay blankets cost so much. Vintage 1930s Hudson Bay Point Blanket Coat Womens Wool Tan Brown Sz L XL RARE. They were first created in the 1700s by British traders working for the Hudsons Bay Company. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. C $108.85. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. The point blankets then became the standard for measuring every item the HBC was trading. Unlike wool blankets, these blankets are made with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and mildew. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. 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. Third, feel the fabric. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. 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. $190.97. 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. But they have a dark history as well. [Answered] This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. And what's the temperature rating of them? Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. 9. Which Subway Bread Is Healthiest? Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. There is no set meaning behind the colors on the blanket, but they have a particular historical significance. May 17, 2011. Wilderness Survival, Hiking and Camping Forum, http://www2.hbc.com/hbcheritage/history/blanket/. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. Amazon Basics Soft Micromink Sherpa Throw Blanket - King, Cream. Blanket Statement. Occasionally, Coast Salish women would sew in folds and add borders to adjust the size and form of the point blankets for ease of use. The Hudson's Bay point blanket with its instantly recognizable stripes has a long history, stretching back generations before this land was called Canada. 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 some of the most expensive blankets in the world. C $884.94. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. 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. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. prince william county sheriff election. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. DETAILS. My . Some of these items ship sooner than the others. Theyre usually classified by size. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. 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. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. 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.). Some of the famous woolen mills in the United States and England produced these blankets. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. The price of a Hudson Bay blanket is typically more expensive than the price of other types of blankets because of how popular they are. Although a new blanket may cost up to $3,000, you can be sure that youre not paying a beavers life savings to create a replica. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca If youre looking for a blanket that will add a pop of color to your home, Hudson Bay is the way to go. 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? The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is sure to keep you warm and cozy all winter long! 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 stripe width and spacing will vary depending on the size of the blanket, but they should all be of equal width. Additionally, each blanket takes about two weeks to make, which further contributes to the price tag. or Best Offer. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. 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. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. These have only been used two or three times. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the privilege. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. There is a local that is selling his Early's Witney 4 Point blanket for $110 and I was wondering how it compared to a genuine Hudson Bay or a surplus blanket. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_8',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? Free shipping on many items . The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? But what makes these blankets so special? There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Just be sure to read the reviews before purchasing anything, as not all sellers on Amazon are created equal! Hudson's Bay Company Mink Coat. 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. The blankets are made at the Hainsworth wool mill, which has been in operation for over 230 years. ), 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. These blankets are typically about 4 feet by 6 feet in size, making them perfect for cuddling up on the couch or keeping warm in bed. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. You probably cant get em. Many people complained that they were lumpy and monotone, but new colors have been introduced. Finally, the size of the blanket must be considered. I recently bought 2 Italian Army for less than 20 a piece for deer camp. 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. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. This is because of its high quality and long lifespan, both of which make it well worth the money spent. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? BTW -- I live in a cold state, and I shut off the heat at night. The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. Wool blankets can be washed in a washing machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them. The British and early North American citizens used them to warm themselves and protect their belongings. For way less than a hudson point or pendleton. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. What size is a 6 point Hudson Bay blanket. For example, many Inuit liked plain white blankets that provided camouflage, while the Tsimshian and Tlingit typically preferred deep blue designs. 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. The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. Rosalie Favell, I awoke to find my spirit had returned (detail, from the series Plain (s) Warrior Artist), 1999. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Categories . 2022. Though the reason for these differences is not certain, it is thought that certain patterns and colours held important spiritual meaning, as well as practical use. In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. I was wondering if anyone had either one of the point blankets and how you like them? So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. (See alsoWeaving.) Because each blanket is handwoven, no two are exactly alike. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. These blankets are warm and thick, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and bedding. Shop Blankets & Throws on The Bay. All Hudson Bay blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold. Second, take a close look at the stripes. ". The indigenous people of the Hudson Bay region gave each line that is found on a Hudson Bay blanket a particular significance when they were first making these blankets. 1. My great uncle gave all his nephew who finished high school a Hudson blanket, that was over 30 years ago.. this blanket has been on unknown amount of hunting trip & camping still in great shape..yes expensive but great qualitybut mine was a giftwould i buy one not sure.