The Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudson's Bay Point Blanket

Rear cover notes: With its proud stripes and distinctive black markings, the Hudson's Bay point blanket is a Canadian icon. In 1779, HBC commissioned the textile mill of Thomas Empson of Witney, Oxfordshire, to produce 'pointed' blankets. During the 1800s, their warmth and durability made them a favourite of the Native peoples, traders, and pioneers. Today, these blankets are still essential gear. They have accompanied explorers to the top of Everest and to the heart of Antarctica and have been used for everything from sled and boat sails to panning for gold. This lavishly illustrated book tells the remarkable story of the blanket that has 'covered centuries.'