Recently during a trip to central Pennsylvania, where I grew up, I was fortunate to discover a beautiful, like-new Hudson's Bay Blanket on the shelves of my favorite antique shop. I had been familiar only with Pendleton National Parks Blankets (
link) prior to this, so this was my introduction to the brand. Luckily, the previous owner had kept the original box, complete with an historical overview on the inside cover!
Taken from these paragraphs: "Originally introduced for trade with natives, the first recorded order for 'point' blankets mentions December 22, 1779. In those days Indians traded furs for goods. Short indigo lines called 'points' meant prices. Thus 3 1/2 'points' meant three large and one small beaver skins. Four 'points' meant four beavers. Today, 'points' indicate sizes. "
My beautiful cream and gold blanket was made in England by Pearce Woolen Mills, Inc., a subsidiary of Woolrich Woolen Mills in Woolrich, Pennsylvania.
This is THE most warm and cozy blanket. Worth its weight in gold.
Happy Hunting (for pieces of your own), or if you'd rather...
Link to the Hudson's Bay website.
