THE HISTORY OF NATIVE AMERICAN TRADE &
CAMP BLANKETS
When the Europeans arrived and the Westward expansion began, the Native Americans bartered silver jewelry and other valuable items in exchange for commercially manufactured wool blankets that the settlers brought with them.
CAMP BLANKETS
When the Europeans arrived and the Westward expansion began, the Native Americans bartered silver jewelry and other valuable items in exchange for commercially manufactured wool blankets that the settlers brought with them.
The Native people valued these "trade blankets" because their finer weave made them softer, warmer and more comfortable to wear. And, they were reasonably priced and readily available at the trading post.
These blankets became more popular and by the late 19th century commercial production of these trade blankets in America was well on its way. Five woolen mills produced the greatest number of Indian trade blankets, borrowing Native American designs and weaving them on jacquard looms for mass production.
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