Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. So, what makes these blankets so special? Third, feel the fabric. The Prorsum Poncho is a luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a hefty price tag of $1500. However, they are worth every penny. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. Turn a wool blanket into a coat. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. (See alsoChilkat Blanket.). Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. Then, I used extra rinse to make sure all the soap was rinsed out. The Bay Blanket. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. If youd like to wash them, make sure to follow the instructions on the Hudsons Bay website. And now Barbie, the biggest name in make . 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. 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. 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. 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. If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. I have a few Hudson Bay multi stripe blankets and people always say "oh wow is that a Pendleton". They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. 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. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. Hudson Bay blankets are made of very high quality wool, sourced from New Zealand. Costco is one of the best places to buy Hudson Bay Blankets because they often have them on sale and you can usually find a good selection to choose from. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. 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. There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. At that time they were highly sought after for being very warm in the brutal Canadian winters. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. 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? The answer is yes! 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. Both companies sell woolen blankets, but Pendletons blankets are of a higher quality. 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. Even though it comes with a hefty price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket continues to be a customer favorite. The last thing that needs to be taken into consideration is the size of the blanket. They first appeared in the 1700s, and served as currency for trade and as robes for women. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? Today, several mills make different shades. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. 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. 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.. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. Why Is Shipping so Expensive in Canada in 2023? The short answer is yes. Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. These blankets quickly became popular among Native Americans and settlers alike, and theyve been revered ever since. There are three main types of Hudson Bay blankets: trade, chiefs, and voyageur. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. ; a half point measured half that length. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. Hick Industries Save Reply Quote grandma Registered Yup! 9. After the fabric is cut and sewn into blankets, it is sent to Canada, where it is sold in Hudsons Bay stores across the country. Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. Sadly they no longer make blankets. Once the color and design have been determined, the next step is to identify the material. 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. 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. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive . These colors are now considered Queen Annes colors, and are found on many HBC products. The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. All Rights Reserved. Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) is a Canadian retail company that sells a wide range of products, including blankets. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. Since 1779, Hudson Bay blankets have become a staple in every high society Canadian home with a rich heritage of producing quality blankets. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. Let's talk alternatives. 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 durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. 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 . They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. $140.00. Today, the point blanket is still produced by the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains a popular choice for both function and style. ), 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. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Required fields are marked *. Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. But they have a dark history as well. Reason to Buy: The Army Medic blanket by Faribault Military was inspired by the design of wool blankets made for foot soldiers in the early 1900s and is both comfortable and durable. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Here is a layout pattern to make a Capote coat from a Hudson's Bay blanket. It still exists as a commercial company and is active in . We're on the lookout for one to make our sofa cozier this winter. 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. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. The blanket is made of 100% wool and is machine washable for easy care. Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . The white design with green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes is now recognized all over the world and is still being produced today. By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. 10 Reasons Why. Explore this page to learn more The blankets are usually made out of wool, which makes them soft and cozy. 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. But it was in 1779 that the Company first commissioned the English textile mill . Trade blankets were so popular on the West Coast that British weavers altered the colours of designs to meet local demand. So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. First, check the label. 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. 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? According to the official company history, blankets had been taken to Hudson Bay as trade goods as far back as 1668. Shrumm, R. (2018). Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. This piece of Canadiana is famous for its woolen fabric, which is dense and made entirely of wool, as well as for its traditional design. Now, Hudson's Bay Co. is redirecting the profits from the sale of those blankets toward Indigenous-led initiatives. The high price is due to their durability. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets on the market, and for good reason. They are constructed using high-quality components, which results in their high retail price. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. Over the years, the popularity of Pendleton blankets has increased due to the warmth and coziness of these blankets. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. 0 bids. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. For starters, Hudson Bay Blankets are incredibly well-made. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. 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. Last Edited. The first step is to identify the type of blanket. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. Hudson Bay 6 Point Blanket, Natural with Multi Stripes Brand: WOOLRICH 102 ratings $69500 Colour Name: Natural With Multi Stripes See more About this item Woolrich is the exclusive u.s. distributor Dry clean only Loomed in england 6 points woven to indicate size Queen 90-inch by 100-inch Buy it with + + Total price: Add all three to Cart Although other colors may be used as well, the most common ones for the stripes are green, red, yellow, and indigo. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). Many fewer people here have heard of Hudson's bay but IMO the HB is the superior blanket of the two When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. But what makes these blankets so special? They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. You wont be let down in any way! The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more 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. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. The Hudson Bay Company occasionally has workshops where Hudsons Bay Blankets are sewn into classic coats. Chief factor for the HBCs Columbia District, John McLoughlin, informed the company in 1845 to make blankets resembling the more favourably-designed American point blankets: The American Blanket though generally inferior to ours, meets a readier sale with Indians in consequence of its gaudy color and we beg that those we have ordered may be made in respect of color and texture fully equal to the samples. Therefore, when the Coast Salish preferred a purer white colour, the HBC complied. The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples. They are made under licence for the Hudson Bay Company and I would think strictly controlled. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. Their origins date back to the 1670s. During the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1704), red, indigo, green, and yellow were particularly popular. These blankets are marketed as luxury items, and the company spends a great deal of money on advertising and promotion. The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. 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. A few years ago you could buy a new Earlys of Whitney 4 point blanket for around 160.00. 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. While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. This is due to its quality and durability, which make it worth the investment. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . | Explore presents the Hudson's Bay Company - Part 4 (3): Treasures of the fur trade. Hudsons 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. Many people complained that they were lumpy and monotone, but new colors have been introduced. When it comes to finding the perfect Hudson Bay Blanket, there are a few different places you can look. They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. You probably cant get em. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. These warm blankets are as iconic as Mariah Carey's lip-syncing, but some people believe they were used to spread smallpox and decimate entire Indigenous communities. 13 watching. 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? 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. There are a few reasons why Hudson Bay blankets cost so much. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. If the blanket can be traced back to a particular time or place, it will be more valuable than one with no history. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay blanket. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. The Hudsons Bay Point Blanket is a traditional wool blanket that has been around for quite some time. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. For one, theyre incredibly durable. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. 1 1.Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive: Top 6 Reasons; 2 2.Antiques: Invest in a Hudson Bay blanket and wrap yourself up; 3 3.Customer reviews: Woolrich 90 by 100-Inch Hudson Bay 6 Point ; 4 4.Pendleton Or Hudson Bay Blanket? It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. Reference similar practices account all of these blankets are a few years you... Styles and colors that allow you to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you more! 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