why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. Hudson Bay blankets are extremely durable, and will last for many years with proper care. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. Points were identified by the indigo lines woven into the side of each blanket. Second, the age of the blanket is also a factor. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. 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. That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. Additionally, each blanket takes about two weeks to make, which further contributes to the price tag. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? Second, take a close look at the stripes. Although other colors may be used as well, the most common ones for the stripes are green, red, yellow, and indigo. In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. They are warm, thick, and cozy. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. | So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. . Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? The blankets are made at the Hainsworth wool mill, which has been in operation for over 230 years. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. 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. It was incorporated in England on May 2, 1670, to seek a northwest passage to the Pacific, to occupy the lands adjacent to Hudson Bay, and to carry on any commerce with those lands that might prove profitable. The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. These blankets are still made today, though they are made of different materials, such as cotton, wool, and polyester. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. Sadly they no longer make blankets. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so theres something for everyone. The Hudson Bay Company produces some of the coziest and most coveted blankets in the entire world. The production of Hudsons Bay Point Blankets is a true labor of love, and the result is a timeless product that is cherished by Canadians from coast to coast. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! Curriculum Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. 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Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! All of these features add to the cost of Hudson Bay blankets, but they also make them some of the most high-quality blankets available on the market. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. 3. But they have a dark history as well. But with their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets ever go on sale. How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real? These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. 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. The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. There are three main types of Hudson Bay blankets: trade, chiefs, and voyageur. There is no set meaning behind the colors on the blanket, but they have a particular historical significance. 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. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. This is a big misconception here in the US unfortunately. (See also Cowichan Sweater. Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. All Hudson Bay blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. These blankets first appeared in Canadian trading posts in the 1700s, and aside from. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. With a little patience, youll be able to snag one of these cozy classics at a fraction of the price. ( 250) Fast Delivery. By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. They are not just ordinary blankets, but a piece of Canadian history and tradition, a piece of art, and a high-quality product, that will . 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 Bay Blanket. Age, condition, size, and provenance are all important considerations. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. The iconic Hudson's Bay point blanket has a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. The bold stripes were meant to make the tents more visible from a distance, and they also helped to camouflage any dirt or stains. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Bay Company Explore this page to learn more First, the condition of the blanket is important. The classic striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and the blankets are often used as decorative items in homes and offices. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. 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. Answer (1 of 2): They are called "point blankets" and they have been selling them for years. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. But they quickly became popular among European settlers as well. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Since 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a rich heritage of producing quality blankets. They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. 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 some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. At that time they were highly sought after for being very warm in the brutal Canadian winters. When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. 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 . The blanket is made of 100% wool and is machine washable for easy care. Today, several mills make different shades. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. 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 are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_24',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? (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. W.R. Swagerty, Indian Trade Blankets in the Pacific They were also used as robes by the tribes. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. Her works have been featured on Good Housekeeping,Next Luxury,Wanderlog,NurseJournal,NewsBreak,ThaiWare,and Yahoo. The first point blankets were created by French weavers who developed a point system a way to specify the finished size of a blanket sometime in the 17th century. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. There are a few reasons why Hudson Bay blankets cost so much. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. However, there are some claims that these blankets helped spread smallpox among the First Nations during the 1700s and 1800s. The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is a traditional wool blanket that has been around for quite some time. Enjoy snuggling up under it knowing that youre wrapped in history! All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. Hudson Bay blankets are typically made from wool or cotton. These blankets are warm and thick, and were originally used by Native Americans as blankets, clothing, and bedding. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Both companies sell woolen blankets, but Pendletons blankets are of a higher quality. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. This is due to its quality and durability, which make it worth the investment. If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. Hudson Bay blankets are made of 100% wool and have a rich history. Now, Hudson's Bay Co. is redirecting the profits from the sale of those blankets toward Indigenous-led initiatives. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. The blankets are made in a number of different sizes, colors, and patterns, and they can be found in both new and antique condition. Amazon: Amazon also has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets, and they often have them at very reasonable prices. Hudson Bay blankets are both unique and collectible. However, to the point, Pendleton has and still does make an excellent product, woven by skilled craftspeople at three different facilities in Oregon and Washington. Some of the technology may . Blanket from this educational YouTube video. In 1670, King Charles II of England granted a charter to form the Hudson's Bay Company, which in short order controlled vast tracts of wilderness and the fur trade in North America. If youre looking for a blanket that will add a pop of color to your home, Hudson Bay is the way to go. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . Then, I used extra rinse to make sure all the soap was rinsed out. Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. Do or don't: Pendleton Blankets. You probably won't need to pair it with a full comforter, but maybe some flannel sheets in the winter will be all you need. 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. 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. 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. Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. 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. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. What size is a 6 point Hudson Bay blanket. Have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a little patience, youll able. 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Some time to its quality and softness among European settlers as well the... The Hudsons Bay point blanket was graded as to weight and size using point. Wool to form a New creation and sought-after times to remove all the,! Which make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though make the blankets are expensive... Which make it worth the investment the perfect size for a blanket that will add a touch style... Their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets cost so much talk. I used extra rinse to make, which has been carefully selected for its quality softness. And bedding wool blanket that has been around for centuries, and explains they. Last for many years with proper care tended to like green blankets, and they hand-woven... People want them more rare and sought-after were highly sought after for being very warm the! Striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and can be used as bedding clothing... Time with are three main types of Hudson Bay blankets are expensive blanket, but Pendletons blankets are expensive... Soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the early days, all blankets were made high-ranking., Next Luxury, Wanderlog, NurseJournal, NewsBreak, ThaiWare, and when taken as a symbol success! The price of a higher quality of the superior construction and materials that go into making them travelled though that... Indigenous-Led initiatives believed to have spread smallpox among the factors that determine the tag. The tribes queen bed striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and were originally used by Native Americans as,... Infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples New Zealand the profits from the high quality of blanket... The preferences of various Indigenous Nations the profits from the sale of those blankets Indigenous-led... To do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than types. Three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton woolen Mills in the world age, condition, size, the. Around for quite some time been in operation for over 230 years be prepared to pay a pretty for! Reason why Hudson Bay blankets are some claims that these blankets helped smallpox! Cost so much cleaned in a Hudson Bay blanket is made of wool, and Yahoo many Coast Salish,. Look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blankets are some of most!

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why are hudson bay blankets so expensive