why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

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. Typically, the wool blankets were traded with Native Americans for pelts; arctic fox, lynx and most importantly beaver. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. Additionally, each blanket is unique no two are exactly alike. Curriculum Belmores. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. The history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. Since 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a rich heritage of producing quality blankets. The high price is due to their durability. Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets in the world. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. 0 HB Rewards Members can save up to 50%. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. 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. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. 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. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. May 17, 2011. If youre looking for a blanket that will add a pop of color to your home, Hudson Bay is the way to go. The water-resistant nature of this product will make it even more suitable for you. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. C $816.86. [deleted] 7 yr. ago. 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. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). For starters, Hudson Bay Blankets are incredibly well-made. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. This item: Hudson Bay 6 Point Blanket, Natural with Multi Stripes. The Bay Blanket. For centuries, these blankets have been reserved for the wealthy and elite. 10 Reasons Why. 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. JavaScript is disabled. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. 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. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. There are many factors to consider, such as the color and design of the blanket, the material it is made from, and the size. They are constructed using high-quality components, which results in their high retail price. Hudson Bay blankets are extremely durable, and will last for many years with proper care. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. Location. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. 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. Minky blankets are made with a variety of different materials, including microfiber, chenille, and plush. 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. One of the reasons is that theyre not mass-produced. The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on cold nights. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). Sylvia Olsen, Working The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. Hudson Bay blankets are typically made from wool or cotton. By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. Hudson Bay is a historical company that was founded in 1670, while Pendleton is a modern company that was founded in 1909. 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. 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. Hudson Bay Wool Collectible Blankets All Auction Buy It Now 285 Results Color Brand Style Condition Price Buying Format All Filters Vintage Hudson Bay 4 Point Blanket Striped 100% Wool England $61.00 7 bids $21.69 shipping 4d VTG WOOL BLANKET 51x63 RED & BLACK STRIPE HUDSON BAY STYLE $44.99 $8.14 shipping This means that each blanket takes a great deal of time and skill to create. Hudson Bay Blanket - 3.5 point - Red Label - 1950s - Iconic - Wool Blanket - Trading Blanket - Point Blanket - Twin Size - Camp Blanket Ad vertisement by eNightmareVintage. As this blanket is made in such a way that it is breathable, you will not sweat under it when the nights are slightly warmer. At that time they were highly sought after for being very warm in the brutal Canadian winters. Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. I don't think it needs to be a particular brand; you often pay more for the name than any added value that accompanies it. Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the privilege. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. 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. 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 . Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. 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. Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. How Many Teaspoons Is In 2 Ounces? But they had a darker history, too. The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. 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 . In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point 8 Reasons Why, Why Are Harleys So Expensive? First, theyre made with high-quality materials. The value of your blanket will depend on its age, condition, and rarity. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. Are they as good as they say? Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. [In-depth Answer] What Is 3 Quarters In a Cup? [Top 10 Reasons] Why Are Komarov Dresses So Expensive? Shrumm, Regan. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. Hudson Bay blankets are made to last, and they only get better with age. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. Wool Blanket Hudson's Bay Style Thickness and Extra Warm Blanket 100% Organic Virgin Wool Blanket XXL Natural Handwoven RIWADESIGN (206) $211.49 FREE shipping Very Large Vintage Wool Hudsons Bay Blanket Pillow - Lake Life - Lodge or Adirondack Style - Cabin Chic Style 1 VintageGingham (1,075) $49.85 A good wool blanket will last a lifetime. Whether you drape it over your sofa or use it as an extra layer on your bed, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to add personality to your space. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. Once it arrives at the mill, the wool is dyed and woven into cloth using a centuries-old method known as pointing.. Show details. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? If you really want the name of a hudson bay blanket go for it I guess. 9.) Whats more, Hudson Bay Blankets have a rich history. Vintage Hudson Bay blankets are highly sought after by collectors and history buffs alike. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. These blankets are still made today, though they are made of different materials, such as cotton, wool, and polyester. But for many people, the quality and uniqueness of these blankets is worth the price tag. -The blanket should have a woven selvedge along both sides. For nearly three centuries, the company played a major role in the fur trade, helping to shape the history of Canada. 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. Shop our collection of Blankets & Throws online and get FREE shipping for all orders that meet the minimum spend threshold. However, the blankets design has been the cause of some complaints. Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. VERY OLD! They can be machine washed and dried, making them easy to care for. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. Canada This short video provides more When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. or Best Offer. For one, theyre incredibly durable. These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. This is because of its high quality and long lifespan, both of which make it well worth the money spent. Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. A blanket thats been well-cared for and is in excellent condition will obviously be worth more than one thats been abused or is in poor condition. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. C $108.85. 25. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. Gicle print on paper, 83 x 76.5 cm. 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. I don't know that a hudson bay is worth the extra money. mon - fri 8.00 am - 4.00 pm #22 beetham gardens highway, port of spain, trinidad +1 868-625-9028 Learn more about the HBC Point Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. 1 - 4 point green and 2 - 4 point white. 2022. Cheapest Ways To Build A House In South Africa 2023: All Types of Nurses in South Africa and Their, President Scholarship at University of Winnipeg in, Indian Government Scholarships by Indian Council for, International Student Scholarships at Douglas College, Why Is Washington DC So Expensive in 2023. C $176.97 shipping. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. First, check the label. Wilderness Survival, Hiking and Camping Forum, http://www2.hbc.com/hbcheritage/history/blanket/. 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. In addition to being expensive, the blankets are also extremely valuable, especially the older ones. Second, take a close look at the stripes. Today, the point blanket is still produced by the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains a popular choice for both function and style. 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. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. I was wondering if anyone had either one of the point blankets and how you like them? These blankets were made by the Hudson Bay Company in the 18th and 19th centuries. Additionally, the long history of Hudson Bay blankets makes them highly sought-after by collectors. In . Trade blankets were so popular on the West Coast that British weavers altered the colours of designs to meet local demand. While the production process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are still being manufactured today. Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. 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. In central and eastern Canada, many Mtis and French settlers and traders wore their Hudsons Bay Point Blankets as outerwear robes, and later turned them into capotes handmade wrap-style coats. 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. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Be aware, old items (especially wool) can have unseen ins. As a 100% wool blanket, it is considerably heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic blankets. $399.99. Here are a few of our favorite places to find these cozy blankets: They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. Her works have been featured on Good Housekeeping,Next Luxury,Wanderlog,NurseJournal,NewsBreak,ThaiWare,and Yahoo. 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.. Many people have old Hudson Bay blankets that have been passed down through the generations. 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 most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. Amazon: Amazon also has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets, and they often have them at very reasonable prices. They can be a great investment if they are kept in good condition. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. But with their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets ever go on sale. they are very bulky and heavy and don't pack up well. 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.). Manage Settings Do you ever cuddle up with a throw blanket when watching TV or reading books? $19.99. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. be careful with the foreign wool blankets. . Washington. Wool blankets can be washed in a washing machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. 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. Because of this, Hudson Bay blankets take a long time to create. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. about the point blanket. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. The modern version is made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. The high cost of labor is another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. The Hudson Bay Blanket is a type of blanket that has been utilized by indigenous peoples for a considerable amount of time. 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. Step #3. Capotes became so popular that, in 1706, the HBC hired a tailor to construct the blankets into these coats. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. Beautiful original Hudson Bay blankets from 100 years ago. But they have a dark history as well. Although they are not typically discounted throughout the year, Hudsons Bay does offer sales on these blankets from time to time. You wont be let down in any way! This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. Wool, cotton, and polyester are just some of the modern-day materials that are used in the production of the updated version. Dating a Hudson Bay blanket can be easy if you know what to look for. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. Required fields are marked *. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. The last thing that needs to be taken into consideration is the size of the blanket. For centuries, theyve been synonymous with quality, durability, and comfort. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! prince william county sheriff election. Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. While the HBC was not the first to create the point blanket, the company did popularize it among Indigenous and settler communities in Canada. If youre looking for a cozy blanket that will make a statement, Hudson Bay is the way to go. ), 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. 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. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Explore this page to learn more The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. Hudson Bay Blanket is a blanket that has been used for centuries by Native Americans. I believe a heavy duty fleece blanket would be much cheaper and easier to carry. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. While it is not known exactly when Hudsons Bay Company started selling blankets, it is clear that they have been an important part of the company for many years. Only 2 left in stock. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); 2023 Website designed by Eze Azu.ABOUT USCONTACT USPRIVACY POLICYSUBMIT GUEST POSTS, Most Expensive Calculators in the World 2023: If you, Capitec Universal Branch Code 2023: As more and more. According to the HBC, the hue and colour order in the famous white and colour-striped point blanket were not standardized until the mid- to late-19th century. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Courtesy of Hudson's Bay Company. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. In, Shrumm, Regan. As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. Many people complained that they were lumpy and monotone, but new colors have been introduced. Age, condition, size, and provenance are all important considerations. Harold Tichenor, The Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. Some scholars, such as historian Robert Boyd and artist and anthropologist Marianne Nicolson, believe that colonial authorities knew that smallpox would spread into Western Canada, and that it would help colonial authorities claim Indigenous lands without treaties or compensation. 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.