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. Textile Museum of Blanket from this educational YouTube video. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. Theyre also highly collectible. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. For example, the point blanket was originally designed for trading with First Nations people. The thick wool fabric is resistant to wear and tear, and the tight weave means that the blankets can withstand a great deal of use. ; a half point measured half that length. 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. The 10 Most Expensive Soccer Balls on the Market, Why Are Patek Philippe so Expensive? Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. With a little patience, youll be able to snag one of these cozy classics at a fraction of the price. These blankets can be hand-washed or machine-washed, but make sure to avoid bleach or fabric softeners as these will damage the fibers. But what makes these blankets so special? It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. Explore presents the Hudson's Bay Company - Part 4 (3): Treasures of the fur trade. 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. 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. These blankets are often very well-made and can last for decades, making them a valuable investment. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. 1. 2. These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. The blankets were originally traded for beaver pelts. For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. 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. Eventually, it would become known simply as the Hudson's Bay Company. Today, several mills make different shades. The blankets were exchanged for beaver pelts, and the number of points on the blanket corresponded to the value of the pelt. Because of this, Hudson Bay blankets take a long time to create. If youre looking for a cozy blanket that will make a statement, Hudson Bay is the way to go. For centuries, these blankets have been reserved for the wealthy and elite. A real Hudson Bay blanket will also be made from 100% wool. You wont be let down in any way! The Hudson's Bay Company, a fur-trading enterprise headquartered in London, began operations on the shores of Hudson Bay in 1670. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. Originally produced in British North America, Hudson Bay blankets are now shipped worldwide. Why Is Shipping so Expensive in Canada in 2023? Proudly powered by WordPress Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. Occasionally, the HBC would produce blankets for special events or anniversaries; for instance, for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, a royal purple blanket with white stripes and point was produced. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. Compared to wool blankets, Hudson Bay blankets tend to be warmer. Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. However, the point system made it easy to sell the blankets through fur trading, as the points became a reliable pricing convention. The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia. Wool, cotton, and polyester are just some of the modern-day materials that are used in the production of the updated version. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. Canada This short video provides more So, what makes these blankets so special? Hudson Bay and Pendleton are not the same. Theyre also available in new designs, and can be ordered through the Hudsons Bay Companys website. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". The answer is yes! Hudson Bay blankets are made to last, and they only get better with age. How can you tell if a Hudson Bay blanket is real? 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. Hudson Bay blankets were originally made by a contract manufacturer, but todays blankets are made in a factory owned by the company. Third, feel the fabric. Answer (1 of 2): They are called "point blankets" and they have been selling them for years. Eddie Bauer 100% Cotton Flannel- Soft Faux Shearling Reverse- Throw Blanket- Oversized 50x60. 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. Among the most valuable were plain wool blankets, called Hudson Bay blankets, which were introduced in the late 1700s. That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. It is the flagship brand of the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), the oldest and longest-surviving company in North America as well as one of the oldest continuously operating companies in the world. The Hudson Bay point blanket has a complex history with Indigenous people in Canada. Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. During the fur trade era, point blankets were often sold in 2.5, 3.5, or four points, and the size of a six-point HBC blanket corresponds to the size of a modern mattress. The answer is that it depends on your personal preferences. 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. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more about the point blanket. 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. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. The history of Pendleton Woolen Mills is one of opportunity, exploration and innovation. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. In conclusion, Hudson Bay blankets are expensive for several reasons. However, there are a few things to consider before selling an old Hudson Bay blanket. Faribault began making blankets for the U.S. military in the 1890s and proudly continues the tradition more than 100 years later. 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 Points were identified by the indigo lines woven into the side of each blanket. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. 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 yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. As a result, Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive on the market. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. How Long to Cook Green Bean Casserole in Microwave. 10 Reasons Why, Why Is Stanley Furniture So Expensive? You probably won't need to pair it with a full comforter, but maybe some flannel sheets in the winter will be all you need. The reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive is because of the superior construction and materials that go into making them. Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. However, the blankets design has been the cause of some complaints. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. Trade blankets were made for exchange with Native Americans and are the most common type of Hudson Bay blanket. (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). But among the native people of North America, the wool blankets symbolized the evils colonialism and the introduction of deadly diseases . Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. Step #3. (See also Cowichan Sweater. While this is a very expensive blanket, they have been around a long time for a reason. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. 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. Shrumm, R. (2018). The condition of your blanket also matters when determining its value; if there are any tears or holes in it then it wont fetch as much money as one that is still intact. The white design with green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes is now recognized all over the world and is still being produced today. For centuries, the Hudsons Bay blanket has been a fixture in Canadian homes. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. 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. The Stripes blanket, on the other hand, was designed for use in military tents. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. 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