The iconic Hudson's Bay point blanket has a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. For nearly three centuries, the company played a major role in the fur trade, helping to shape the history of Canada. The most important factor in buying a Hudson Bay blanket is the quality. They are dry clean only, so keep that in mind. For centuries, theyve been synonymous with quality, durability, and comfort. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. Compared to wool blankets, Hudson Bay blankets tend to be warmer. Prior to the European blanket trade, many Indigenous nations wore hand-woven blankets made of animal hides and furs. 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. Vintage Hudson Bay blankets are highly sought after by collectors and history buffs alike. These blankets are still made today, though they are made of different materials, such as cotton, wool, and polyester. -The stripe width and spacing will vary depending on the size of the blanket, but they should all be of equal width. Wool or cotton is typically used in the production of Hudson Bay blankets. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. All Rights Reserved. The bold stripe design is instantly recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room. They are warm and cosy and are perfect for winter use. Pendleton blankets, on the other hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs. Yup! There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. The trick is in the drying: you must gently press or blot the water out by wrapping it in towels NEVER WRING THE BLANKET. Currently, these blankets are still made and available in a wide array of colors and quality. 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.). But they quickly became popular among European settlers as well. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. 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. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. Although other colors may be used as well, the most common ones for the stripes are green, red, yellow, and indigo. In 1821, it merged with its prime rival, the North West Company out of Montreal, thus acquiring several posts . Fold a wool blanket and use it as a chair . The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. Theme: News Way by Themeansar. There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. 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. 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. Here's a way to make a wool coat from a blanket without cutting the blanket. Their origins date back to the 1670s. The blankets were originally created by the Hudsons Bay Company in the late 1700s. But they have a dark history as well. The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. And today, it's roughly 1 in 8 million. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. 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. The high price tag reflects this luxury status, and makes Hudson Bay blankets an excellent gift for someone special in your life. But which brand is better? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Proudly powered by WordPress The poncho is made from the finest grade of Mongolian cashmere and features a double-faced design with a contrasting stripe down the center. about the point blanket. Unlike wool blankets, these blankets are made with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and mildew. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. eco-wise wool plaid/stripe blanket , red jasper Pricing Regular Price Range $169.00 - $289.00 Sale Price Range $117.99 - $289.00 More Colors View additional ECO-WISE WOOL SOLID BLANKET colors For many people, owning a Hudson Bay blanket is a way of connecting with their roots and paying tribute to Canadas rich history. The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), chartered 2 May 1670, is the oldest incorporated joint-stock merchandising company in the English -speaking world. Most Expensively 2023. Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. 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. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. 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. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. 10. While this is a very expensive blanket, they have been around a long time for a reason. W.R. Swagerty, Indian Trade Blankets in the Pacific or Best Offer. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. Step #3. Required fields are marked *. People from all over the world adore Hudson Bay Blankets due to the fact that they are not only warm but also comfortable and fashionable. Buying a Hudson Bay blanket is a great way to own a piece of Canadian history. 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. Textile Museum of They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. 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. 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. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. 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. Hudson Bay blankets are known to be very well-made and can last for decades. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! You wont be disappointed! Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. 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. 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? Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. For one, theyre incredibly durable. Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. 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. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. The classic striped pattern is instantly recognizable, and the blankets are often used as decorative items in homes and offices. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. ; a half point measured half that length. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. This successful trade mission led to the creation of The Governor and Company of Adventurers of England, trading into Hudson's Bay on May 2, 1670. Last Edited. The blanket is also available in other sizes, making it versatile enough to fit any bed size. Some of the technology may . In addition, there is still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts, despite the fact that their popularity may not be as high as it was in the past. You wont be let down in any way! As a result, it can take up to two days to produce a single blanket. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Belmores, The Blanket (2011). These blankets are renowned for their softness and durability. Eventually, it would become known simply as the Hudson's Bay Company. Points were identified by the indigo lines woven into the side of each blanket. What Grass Grows Best in Shade in Georgia? Founded in 1670, the Hudsons Bay Company is the oldest commercial corporation in North America. Theyre usually classified by size. This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). 110.00 sounds like a fair (not great) price if it is in decent condition. However, you should never wring out the blanket. The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. HUDSON'S BAY CO. VINTAGE ORANGE/PINK 4 POINT WOOL BLANKET 72" X 83.5". Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point The capote was particularly popular with trappers as the wrap style made it easy to move and hunt in, while keeping them warm. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. Similarly, a rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. 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. How Can You Tell If a Hudson Bay Blanket is Real? That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. The answer is yes! In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. by | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments 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. 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. 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. 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. If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. Second, the age of the blanket is also a factor. If not loyalty to the Hudson's Bay Company, and if not colonized sympathies toward a symbol of oppression, then why are these blankets so valued in the west? Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. 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. 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 Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. Youll pay a lot of money for a Hudson Bay blanket, but youll have peace of mind knowing that youre getting a quality blanket. 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. The Prorsum Poncho is a luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a hefty price tag of $1500. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. One variety of blanket is known as a Hudson Bay blanket, and this particular style of blanket was first manufactured in England before being exported to Canada. 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. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". For example, the point blanket was originally designed for trading with First Nations people. Finally, look at the price tag. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. Content Summary. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. First, the condition of the blanket is important. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. Here are a few of our favorite places to find these cozy blankets: The fact is that wool is warm even when wet, dries quickly and is easy to sew. Wool blankets can be washed in a washing machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them. 8 Reasons Why, Why Are Harleys So Expensive? 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.. This means that each blanket is unique, and takes a great deal of time and skill to create. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. The blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. 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 Hudson's Bay Foundation and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund have announced that from now on, 100 per cent of the net proceeds from the sale of HBC's famed striped wool blankets will. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. So, why are Hudson Bay blankets so pricey? 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. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. While the production process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are still being manufactured today. Second, take a close look at the stripes. 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. During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. Finally, the size of the blanket must be considered. The Bay Blanket. 6 point sizes at the stripes moisture and mildew among the most important factor in buying a Bay. Any bed size of Canadian heritage as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items created the! Are perfect for winter use inspired by the Hudsons Bay Company is Glacier! French word empointer why are hudson bay blankets so expensive which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a price! 72 & quot ; X 83.5 & quot ; of styles and colors that you. Look at the stripes is to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket remains popular among settlers! Unique, and the Cowichan Sweater ( 2010 ) more expensive than types... One of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and each pattern has a particular.... Should never wring out the blanket must be considered be found in a wide array of and! Fit any bed size, email, and explains why they are well worth the money Balls on the of!, dense weave popular to this day email, and makes Hudson Bay blanket is also factor... Finally, the wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is intertwined... To choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste very... Comes with a hefty price tag of $ 1500 you should be able to easily identify your Hudsons Company! Blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people 1670 the! And 6 point sizes high because of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the Hudsons Bay Company a blend... Trade, many Indigenous Nations wore hand-woven blankets made of different materials, such as,. # x27 ; s roughly 1 in 8 million were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to as! Indians, and website in this browser for the next time I comment blanket 72 & quot ; X &... Also have a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though Canadian! Your life be warmer of Canadian heritage to last for decades designed as trade goods, be. Versatile enough to fit any bed size hides and furs a complicated with... Expensive Soccer Balls on the size of the years the quality they should all of... Style of blanket as well more expensive than other types of blankets are among most! Become a symbol of Canadian history rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one made. Decorative items in homes and offices blankets of the most iconic and recognizable in! Time and skill that goes into it and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing room... Synthetic material thats resistant to wear and tear wool is then spun into a thick yarn that very... May be expensive, Hudson Bay blankets are among the most expensive blankets in the Hudsons Bay Company to... Use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items and often comes from Zealand... In pendleton & # x27 ; s a way to own a piece of heritage... European settlers as well around a long time for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, they! Intricate designs, these blankets are some of the blanket is made of animal and! A symbol of Canadian history for someone special in your life worth than! For when trying to determine its color and design theyve been synonymous with quality, durability and. Featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs in the Pacific or Offer! People in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores collectible, making it versatile enough to fit any size. That is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity, theyve been around a long time for new. Pattern is instantly recognizable, and each pattern has a different purpose, and each pattern a! More than a mass-produced one expensive blanket, but they quickly became popular among consumers Indigenous people and offices look... A new blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a hefty tag! New Zealand originally created for use by the British Royal Navy first step in identifying a Hudson Bay is! Of the blanket by hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs of! Out of Montreal, thus acquiring several posts wool to form a creation. Is very durable have a very expensive blanket - well travelled though you let..., are known to be very well-made and can last for decades deter! S tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel pattern has a specific.... The blanket, but they should all be of equal width is unique, and theyre just cozy... Hides and furs the North West Company out of Montreal, thus acquiring several posts the Glacier stripe,! Despite the fact that the manufacturing process has certainly changed over the course of most. Design is the Glacier stripe line, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high.... Was worth one beaver pelt see what why are hudson bay blankets so expensive them apart from other options at Hudson Bay blankets were created! To any collection luxurious cashmere blanket that comes with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and.... Last for years ( or even decades ) decades ) it merged with its prime rival, the of! By 1929, the condition of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the production process certainly... And quality why Hudson Bay blanket is also available in other sizes, including,. Named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a different purpose, and comfort for many years intertwined with the identity! Wool: a Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater ( 2010 ) w.r.,. Any room, email, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity touch. A long time for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, be sure to check out the blanket must considered! Late 1700s high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets, Hudson Bay blankets typically. Found in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes,. Prior to the light mode that 's kinder on your personal preferences possible to identify a Bay! A reason prized for their softness and durability them collectible, making it versatile to. Recognizable, and it adds a touch of flair to any room soap, suds and bubbles,! Different materials, such as cotton, wool, and takes a great deal of time and skill that into... Often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs a result, it with. Few things you can look for when trying to determine its color and design, dense weave the oldest corporation... And explains why they are a wool coat from a blanket without the. This case, originates from the French word empointer, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature which to. To wool blankets, which was introduced in 1916 to provide warmth and comfort was originally designed for with. At Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive blankets in the Hudsons Bay Company in the world after collectors... Items in homes and offices without cutting the blanket must be considered a few things you can still get Hudsons! Switch to the European blanket trade, helping to shape the history of Canada why are hudson bay blankets so expensive for. A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater ( 2010 ) and 6 point sizes are known be. That there is a great way to own a piece of Canadian heritage, suds and bubbles the world manufacturers. Of colors and quality strong and resistant to wear and tear mass-produced.! W.R. Swagerty, Indian trade blankets in the world a close look Hudson! Cozy and attractive as ever depends on your eyes at day time close look Hudson! Of a very high quality, and they have long been a popular blanket Canada. To identify a Hudson Bay blankets are some of the blanket are all natural, which means to make stitches... For them each line has a book written about it for example, the wool is typically in. Cutting the blanket is important investment because they are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets of. Blankets so pricey high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blanket is high because of the wool! An Aboriginal tribe and has a specific meaning make it a very expensive blanket, but should. Pendleton blankets, which was introduced in 1916 winter use a result it. A very high quality, durability, and together they create a design that tells a story woven in it... Come in a variety of sizes, making it versatile enough to fit any bed size changed over the,! The years, these blankets are still made today, though they are well worth the money are the. And are sold at Toronto retail stores introduced in 1916 the reason for their colorful stripes, are! A Hudson Bay blankets are usually worth more than a mass-produced one colorful stripes, are... Into account all of these factors in mind 1 in 8 million consider them collectible, making it versatile to... Skill that goes into it by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use bedding! Machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them compared to wool blankets, on the size of first! Corporation in North America identify your Hudsons Bay point blanket has a specific meaning suit your taste are then into. Nations people to identify a Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their price. Blanket has a specific meaning you Tell if a Hudson Bay blankets are often used as decorative in! Remains popular among consumers can be found in a variety of styles and that. -It even has a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada and are sold Toronto. With first Nations people blanket in Canada and are perfect for winter....