The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. 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. Content Summary. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. $19.99 shipping. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on cold nights. Because the company invests a significant amount of money in advertising and promotion, the marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is significantly higher than average. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. The mill is located in Leeds, England, and it employs a team of skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to produce the blankets. If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. 8 Reasons Why, Why Are Harleys So Expensive? The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. This is because of its high quality and long lifespan, both of which make it well worth the money spent. Flavian Johnny is the founder of Mostexpensively.com - a blog that serves as an invaluable resource for expatriates and travelers looking for something special and unique. The white design with green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes is now recognized all over the world and is still being produced today. 3. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories If youre lucky enough to own one of these iconic blankets, you might be wondering how you can identify it. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. Explore presents the Hudson's Bay Company - Part 4 (3): Treasures of the fur trade. 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. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. But what makes these blankets so special? History. 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. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. Finally got to try out a hudson bay wool blanket, amazing but too much $$. Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. Here are a few of our favorite places to find these cozy blankets: These blankets are often very well-made and can last for decades, making them a valuable investment. 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. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. Whats more, Hudson Bay Blankets have a rich history. 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.. (Top 11 Reasons). 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. The blanket is also available in other sizes, making it versatile enough to fit any bed size. Northwest: History and Symbolism of a Unique North American Tradition, Columbia: The Magazine of Northwest History They were also used as robes by the tribes. Zelda loves clothes and shoes and is always up on the latest trends. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. The blankets are made in a number of different sizes, colors, and patterns, and they can be found in both new and antique condition. Pendleton blankets, on the other hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Sylvia Olsen, Working Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? If you are interested in purchasing a new blanket, then you should look into the Hudson Bay line of products. Though the points on the blankets did not have an inherent value, merchants during the fur trade often priced point blankets according to the number of points on the blanket, with one point assigned for small blankets and four points designated for very large blankets. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. The indigenous people of the Hudson Bay region gave each line that is found on a Hudson Bay blanket a particular significance when they were first making these blankets. But it was in 1779 that the Company first commissioned the English textile mill . The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. 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. ; a half point measured half that length. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. Hudson Bay and Pendleton are not the same. How Long to Cook Green Bean Casserole in Microwave. The Bay Blanket. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. 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. So if youre looking for an authentic piece of American history, Hudson Bay blankets may be just what you need. But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . $149.99. The Hudson Bay Company occasionally has workshops where Hudsons Bay Blankets are sewn into classic coats. The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. Though the reason for these differences is not certain, it is thought that certain patterns and colours held important spiritual meaning, as well as practical use. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. However, they are worth every penny. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations and Native Americans in . The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. The short answer is yes. In addition to this, they have a very robust distribution network, which enables them to charge high prices for the products that they sell to retailers. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. Today, Hudson Bay blankets are still made according to the same traditional specifications and they remain just as sought-after as ever. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. W.R. Swagerty, Indian Trade Blankets in the Pacific The marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is high because the company spends a lot of money on advertising and promotion. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point Faribault began making blankets for the U.S. military in the 1890s and proudly continues the tradition more than 100 years later. In 1821, it merged with its prime rival, the North West Company out of Montreal, thus acquiring several posts . By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. Theyre also highly collectible. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. The bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. There are many factors to consider, such as the color and design of the blanket, the material it is made from, and the size. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. The blankets got their name from the number of thin indigo lines woven into one edge, indicating the size: twin, 3.5 points; double, four points; queen, six points, and king, eight points. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. 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. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. You probably cant get em. The most expensive blanket in the world is made by Burberry. British weaver Thomas Kay laid the foundation when he arrived in Oregon in 1863. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. This means that each blanket is unique, and takes a great deal of time and skill to create. They can be machine washed and dried, making them easy to care for. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. Fold a wool blanket and use it as a chair . The blankets first appeared in trading posts around the 1700s, and they served as a form of currency. They are made with high-quality materials, so they are very expensive. For starters, Hudson Bay Blankets are incredibly well-made. 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. Hudson's Bay (French: La Baie d'Hudson), known colloquially and operating online as The Bay (French: La Baie), is a Canadian luxury goods department store chain. 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. 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. By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. 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. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). Bay Company Explore this page to learn more 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. Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . Second, take a close look at the stripes. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. But they quickly became popular among European settlers as well. If youre looking for a cozy blanket that will make a statement, Hudson Bay is the way to go. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. HBC was a fur trading business for most of its history, a past that is entwined with the colonization of British North America and the development of Canada. 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 . $140.00. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. 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. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! -The stripe width and spacing will vary depending on the size of the blanket, but they should all be of equal width. 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 . (2002). Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . While the production process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are still being manufactured today. Hudsons But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. The point blankets then became the standard for measuring every item the HBC was trading. The narrative that is conveyed by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is one-of-a-kind for each individual blanket and can change depending on the location at which the blanket was manufactured. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. 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. Shop fleece fabrics by the yard in anti-pill and plush fleece materials. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. There are lots of small businesses that sell Hudson Bay Blankets, so youre sure to find one that fits your style perfectly. The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. This means that your Hudson Bay blanket will look just as good as the day you bought it, even after years of use. Hudson Bay blankets were first made by the Hudson Bay Company in the 18th century and have a rich history. 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. Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. 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. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. 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. However, their high price is due to their high demand. The price of a Hudson Bay blanket is typically more expensive than the price of other types of blankets because of how popular they are. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. 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. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. These blankets first appeared in Canadian trading posts in the 1700s, and aside from. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. The HBC did not commission its very own point blanket until 1779. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. Both brands are known for their high-quality woolen products, but they each have their own unique style. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? The capote was particularly popular with trappers as the wrap style made it easy to move and hunt in, while keeping them warm. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. Why Is Shipping so Expensive in Canada in 2023? On the other hand, if one is to take into consideration each of these aspects, it is possible to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket with a fair amount of ease. 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 . Once the color and design have been determined, the next step is to identify the material. First, check the label. Many people have old Hudson Bay blankets that have been passed down through the generations. 10 Reasons Why. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. First, the condition of the blanket is important. 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. This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. Originally produced in British North America, Hudson Bay blankets are now shipped worldwide. Vintage Hudson Bay Wool 4 Point Multi Color Striped Blanket. The answer is yes! What do the points on a Hudson Bay blanket mean? Belmores, The Blanket (2011). Do you ever cuddle up with a throw blanket when watching TV or reading books? These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. The value of your blanket will depend on its age, condition, and rarity. 0 bids. Trade blankets were so popular on the West Coast that British weavers altered the colours of designs to meet local demand. 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. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? 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. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. Capotes became so popular that, in 1706, the HBC hired a tailor to construct the blankets into these coats. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets on the market, and for good reason. 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. Eventually, it would become known simply as the Hudson's Bay Company. Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . 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. 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