How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real? about the point blanket. The history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. $149.99. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. 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. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. The Bay Blanket. In addition, each blanket is hand-sewn by expert craftswomen, ensuring that each one is a work of art. The blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. 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. Originally produced in British North America, Hudson Bay blankets are now shipped worldwide. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. Trade blankets were made for exchange with Native Americans and are the most common type of Hudson Bay blanket. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. 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. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. Harold Tichenor, The A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) Some of the technology may . During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more 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. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. They are warm and cosy and are perfect for winter use. Hudson Bay blankets are distributed by Woolrich and offer the same style and design that has been so popular since the 1700s. 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. 10. Hudson Bay blankets are both unique and collectible. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. This iconic piece of Canadiana is known for its thick, 100% wool woolen fabric and classic design. By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! The modern version is made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . 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. Zelda loves clothes and shoes and is always up on the latest trends. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. The cost of marketing of Hudson Bay blankets is also a factor in their high price tag. 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. Fold a wool blanket and use it as a chair . They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. The thick wool fabric is resistant to wear and tear, and the tight weave means that the blankets can withstand a great deal of use. Last Edited. 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. The blankets are made at the Hainsworth wool mill, which has been in operation for over 230 years. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. Third, feel the fabric. But what are they actually worth? The answer is yes! 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. Prior to the European blanket trade, many Indigenous nations wore hand-woven blankets made of animal hides and furs. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. be careful with the foreign wool blankets. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. Capotes became so popular that, in 1706, the HBC hired a tailor to construct the blankets into these coats. Explore presents the Hudson's Bay Company - Part 4 (3): Treasures of the fur trade. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides 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. Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two Hudson Bay blankets are made of 100% wool and have a rich history. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. Do you ever cuddle up with a throw blanket when watching TV or reading books? ), 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. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. The high price is due to their durability. Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. A genuine Hudson Bay blanket will cost around $300-$400 USD. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. But they had a darker history, too. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. 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? 1. You wont be disappointed! The blankets originally appeared in early Canadian trading posts, where they were used as currency and fashioned into robes. by | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments The blankets are made in a number of different sizes, colors, and patterns, and they can be found in both new and antique condition. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. Just be sure to read the reviews before purchasing anything, as not all sellers on Amazon are created equal! So its no surprise that people want to know: are they still being made? Hudson Bay Point Blankets were heavy wool blankets made in the 1700's and 1800's to be traded amongst fur trappers in Canada and the native Indian tribes that lived there. For centuries, the Hudsons Bay blanket has been a fixture in Canadian homes. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. Wool or cotton is typically used in the production of Hudson Bay blankets. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. Amazon: Amazon also has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets, and they often have them at very reasonable prices. 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. When it comes to finding the perfect Hudson Bay Blanket, there are a few different places you can look. Let's talk alternatives. The trick is in the drying: you must gently press or blot the water out by wrapping it in towels NEVER WRING THE BLANKET. 10 Reasons Why. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. 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. If your blanket is more than one hundred years old, it might be worth more money than one that was made more recently due to the fact that there are fewer of these older blankets available on the market today. Hudson Bay blankets were originally solid colors with a distinct indigo band. W.R. Swagerty, Indian Trade Blankets in the Pacific Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. 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? 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. The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive When a classmate in my doctoral program showed up wearing one of his grandfather's plaid wool shirts one day, I totally made him check the tag to see if it was a Pendleton. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. There are a lot of different aspects to think about, such as the color and pattern of the blanket, the fabric its made out of, and the size of the blanket. They are warm, thick, and cozy. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Youll pay a lot of money for a Hudson Bay blanket, but youll have peace of mind knowing that youre getting a quality blanket. Unlike wool blankets, these blankets are made with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and mildew. Curriculum This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. 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. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. First, check the label. These blankets are also protected by a unique seal and point system to guarantee authenticity. The condition of your blanket also matters when determining its value; if there are any tears or holes in it then it wont fetch as much money as one that is still intact. They are made under licence for the Hudson Bay Company and I would think strictly controlled. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. about the point blanket. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. All Rights Reserved. ; a half point measured half that length. People desire certain blankets more than others due to the fact that they are one-of-a-kind or have a significant amount of history associated with them, and these blankets tend to be rarer. 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. The bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room. ". Their origins date back to the 1670s. Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. The Hudson Bay Company produces some of the coziest and most coveted blankets in the entire world. 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 . 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. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. (Top 11 Reasons). Among the most valuable were plain wool blankets, called Hudson Bay blankets, which were introduced in the late 1700s. And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. Introduced in the late 1700s in different colors and styles someone you will enjoy. 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