Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. 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. 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. Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two eco-wise wool plaid/stripe blanket , red jasper Pricing Regular Price Range $169.00 - $289.00 Sale Price Range $117.99 - $289.00 More Colors View additional ECO-WISE WOOL SOLID BLANKET colors By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. 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. 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. As a direct consequence of this, the production of a single blanket might take up to two days. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. They are dry clean only, so keep that in mind. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. The blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. People from all over the world love Hudson Bay Blankets because they are warm, comfortable, and stylish. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? This means that your Hudson Bay blanket will look just as good as the day you bought it, even after years of use. 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By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. Early's of Whitney blankets are getting somewhat hard (not impossible) to find. What Grass Grows Best in Shade in Georgia? Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. January 19, 2023. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. 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. While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. The history of Pendleton Woolen Mills is one of opportunity, exploration and innovation. The blankets were originally traded for beaver pelts. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. It has come to our attention that the quality of production of these blankets is actually quite high. Hudson Bay is a historical company that was founded in 1670, while Pendleton is a modern company that was founded in 1909. And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. 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 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. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. 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. However, other colors may also be used. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. 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 For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. Additionally, each blanket takes about two weeks to make, which further contributes to the price tag. Many people complained that they were lumpy and monotone, but new colors have been introduced. Hudson Bay blankets, also known as Point Blankets, are incredibly soft and durable. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. For example, many Inuit liked plain white blankets that provided camouflage, while the Tsimshian and Tlingit typically preferred deep blue designs. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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 . So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. The first step is to identify the type of blanket. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. They can be a great investment if they are kept in good condition. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. Why Is Shipping so Expensive in Canada in 2023? A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. Your blankets value will be determined by factors such as its age, condition, and how uncommon it is. Finally, look at the price tag. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Hudson Bay blankets are made to last, and they only get better with age. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. $140.00. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. 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. Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it. Proudly powered by WordPress Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. Dating a Hudson Bay blanket can be easy if you know what to look for. But they have a dark history as well. You wont be let down in any way! These blankets are renowned for their softness and durability. If its much cheaper than that, its probably not the real thing. The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. The blanket is made of 100% wool and is machine washable for easy care. If the blanket can be traced back to a particular time or place, it will be more valuable than one with no history. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. Hudson Bay blankets are also known for their striped patterns. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. The marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is high because the company spends a lot of money on advertising and promotion. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. 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. 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