If the blanket can be traced back to a particular time or place, it will be more valuable than one with no history. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. 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. Dating a Hudson Bay blanket can be easy if you know what to look for. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more
Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. 8 Reasons Why, Why Are Harleys So Expensive? By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. 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. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) Required fields are marked *. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. Hudson Bay and Pendleton are not the same. 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. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! 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 . Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. 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. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. Hudson Bay blankets are extremely durable, and will last for many years with proper care. Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. They are made under licence for the Hudson Bay Company and I would think strictly controlled. check out their construction materials before spending your money on them. This short video provides more
Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. In addition, they are available in a wide range of hues and designs, making sure that there is something suitable for everyone. However, they are worth every penny. Yellow, blue, green, red: those four stripes of colour on the Hudson's Bay Company four-point blanket are as iconic to Canadians as the Maple Leaf. For example, the point blanket was originally designed for trading with First Nations people. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? During a job interview with the Hudson Bay House in London, England, that year, Germain Maugenest, an independent and experienced fur trader, offered suggestions to improve the company as part of his service to the HBC. The company is also responsible for introducing the now-famous Hudson Bay blanket to the world. They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. Here are a few of our favorite places to find these cozy blankets: At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. Proudly powered by WordPress The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Hick Industries Save Reply Quote grandma Registered Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. Hudson's 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. Her works have been featured on Good Housekeeping,Next Luxury,Wanderlog,NurseJournal,NewsBreak,ThaiWare,and Yahoo. The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Finally got to try out a hudson bay wool blanket, amazing but too much $$. They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. Whether used for clothing, home decor, or even artwork, the Most Expensive Fabric is a symbol of opulence and affluence. A Hudson Bay blanket is highly collectible. Occasionally, the HBC would produce blankets for special events or anniversaries; for instance, for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, a royal purple blanket with white stripes and point was produced. Hudson Bay blankets are made of 100% wool and have a rich history. These blankets are incredibly warm and luxurious, thanks to their 100% wool content. 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. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. 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. These blankets were originally produced by the Hudsons Bay Company in the early 1800s, and they quickly became a staple of life in the American West. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. The answer is yes! The term point, in this case, originates from the French word empointer, which means to make threaded stitches on cloth. The points were simply a series of thin black lines on one of the corners of the blanket, which were used to identify the size of the blanket. Wool or cotton is typically used in the production of Hudson Bay blankets. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. History. Sadly they no longer make blankets. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. These colors are now considered Queen Annes colors, and are found on many HBC products. The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . 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. 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. Hudsons
The production of a Hudson Bay Blanket requires a significant investment of both time and expertise, which results in a high wage requirement for the workers involved. ; a half point measured half that length. Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. During the next century and a half, it gradually expanded its network of trading posts west across Canada. The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. All Hudson Bay blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold. In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. Both brands are known for their high-quality woolen products, but they each have their own unique style. 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. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. Shrumm, R. (2018). Theme: News Way by Themeansar. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. "They had to bring over water and . Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Hudson Bay blankets, also known as Point Blankets, are incredibly soft and durable. However, there are some claims that these blankets helped spread smallpox among the First Nations during the 1700s and 1800s. Vintage Hudson Bay Wool 4 Point Multi Color Striped Blanket. After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it. Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. What size is a 6 point Hudson Bay blanket. The high cost of labor is another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. 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. If youre lucky enough to own a vintage Hudson Bay blanket, you can be sure that it will be a cherished family heirloom for generations to come. Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two First, the condition of the blanket is important. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. They are warm and cosy and are perfect for winter use. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. 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. (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). They are warm, thick, and cozy. You wont be disappointed! And today, it's roughly 1 in 8 million. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Each blanket is crafted from one hundred percent wool and requires a significant amount of hand stitching. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. ), 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. Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. 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. The name point comes from the French word empointer, meaning thread. A full point was roughly 10 cm long, while a half point was half that length. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. In addition to being expensive, the blankets are also extremely valuable, especially the older ones. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. Enjoy snuggling up under it knowing that youre wrapped in history! Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. So, here are some observations: *The Hudson Bay blanket is definitely thicker and "fluffier". In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. As a result, it can take up to two days to produce a single blanket. The point blankets colors are an icon of Canadian style. Pendleton blankets look beautiful, rustic and all-American; I love the stripes and saddles. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. It also has a large hood and fringe trim. 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 blankets are warm and thick, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and bedding. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. These blankets quickly became popular among Native Americans and settlers alike, and theyve been revered ever since. 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. Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples. These Canadian-made blankets are known for their quality craftsmanship and durability. The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. 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. 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. For centuries, these blankets have been reserved for the wealthy and elite. Belmores. Some of the technology may . Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. This means that each blanket is unique, and takes a great deal of time and skill to create. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. Zelda loves clothes and shoes and is always up on the latest trends. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Now, Hudson's Bay Co. is redirecting the profits from the sale of those blankets toward Indigenous-led initiatives. So, if youre looking for a top-of-the-line blanket that will last for years to come, a Hudson Bay blanket is worth the investment. The high price tag reflects this luxury status, and makes Hudson Bay blankets an excellent gift for someone special in your life. What Grass Grows Best in Shade in Georgia? (See alsoChilkat Blanket.). Content Summary. Theyre usually classified by size. However, other colors may also be used. Learn more about the HBC Point
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Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so theres something for everyone. 9. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. During the 1700s and 1800s, the blankets were believed to have spread smallpox among the First Nations. Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides
Vintage Hudson Bay blankets are highly sought after by collectors and history buffs alike. With a little patience, youll be able to snag one of these cozy classics at a fraction of the price. The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. . All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay blanket. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. If its much cheaper than that, its probably not the real thing. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. The bold stripes were meant to make the tents more visible from a distance, and they also helped to camouflage any dirt or stains. Pendleton is another option still a bit too pricey ($200/twin-size), then again I've never seen one, I'm guessing its not as heavyweight/quality as a hudson? Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. 13 watching. 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. 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. 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. 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