Family heirlooms are some of the most treasured items we own. Whether it’s your great-grandfather’s watch or your aunt’s beloved rocking chair, these are the things that remind us of who we are and where we come from.
But not all heirlooms are created equally. Quality craftsmanship is important for an item to last for decades or even centuries. Heirlooms can be useful and functional or entirely symbolic. It’s not always easy to find new premium heirlooms to bring into your family. While many companies may take shortcuts and use inferior materials, there’s one that has been producing heirloom-quality blankets for generations.
The Faribault Woolen Mill Company was established nearly 150 years ago. Founded in 1865 on the banks of the Cannon River in Faribault, Minnesota — this company has had its fair share of ups and downs. But just like a treasured heirloom, the Faribault Mill has stood the test of time. Faribault wool blankets represent everything there is to admire about a family business creating high-quality products in the USA. With a range of styles and colors, you’ll find the perfect one for your home.
Heirloom Blankets to Cherish for Generations
We’re excited to introduce the Buffalo Check Throw Blanket to our collection. It’s made from 100% Merino virgin wool in the same tradition that Faribault has used since the mid-1800s. This timeless, super-soft throw is machine washable, so you can use it every day. And, it’s available in two colorways: the Blue and Black Throw adds just the right amount of color to a minimal space. Or, choose the White and Black Throw to lay over the back of your sofa or reading chair for a graphic impact.
For a more modern take on a classic, we’re offering the Reversible Framed Stripe Throw Blanket. Creamy ivory and heathered gray stripes of various sizes create an understated pattern that looks great in any space. The pattern reverses on the opposite side, so you can choose the look that best suits your home. This blanket is made from a wool and cotton blend and features whipstitching detail along the edges.
All our Faribault wool blankets make great gifts. Give someone you care about the gift of comfort and heirloom quality. These blankets help create the lasting memories that come with impromptu picnics, fireside storytelling or cheering on your team. When you give the gift of a Faribault blanket, you’re passing along nearly 150 years of superior wool craftsmanship. The Faribault Woolen Mill Company has a rich history that parallels the United States’ own ups and downs.
The Faribault Mill: Weaving American History
Back in the 1860s, the first machines at Faribault were powered by horses. At that time, the Mill exclusively turned raw wool into batting — which would then be spun into the yarn used to weave blankets at another location. Faribault first began producing its own line of wool blankets at the Mill in 1872.
By the start of the First World War, the Faribault Woolen Mill Company had established itself as one of the top manufacturers of wool products in the country. With the onset of the war, life changed for all Americans — including the Mill. Stepping up production to meet demand, the Mill manufactured over 100,000 blankets for the Army. During World War II the Mill produced hundreds of thousands of blankets and sleeping bags for the military, solidifying its place in American history.
Over the next 70+ years, Faribault wool blankets became a shining symbol of the high-quality products that American family-run businesses produce. They pushed the industry forward by advocating for American manufacturers across the country and engineering new types of wool. The Mill was the first to introduce moth-proof and washable wool blankets to the market. Embracing the family values and commitment to quality that the Faribault name is built upon, the company has a bright vision for the future. With a forward-thinking approach that honors its past, The Faribault Woolen Mill Company is looking ahead to the next 150 years.
How Faribault Wool Blankets Are Made
The process for making Faribault wool blankets hasn’t changed much since the Mill was founded. Technology has improved, but the classic methods used to weave wool remain unchanged. Each blanket starts its life as raw wool — straight off the sheep. The bales of wool are then dyed and carded. The carding machine blends the wool together (sometimes with other materials — like cotton), straightens it, then twists it into loose strands. Those strands are then pulled, twisted again, and spun to create a strong and durable yarn. Fabric is created by weaving the yarn together at opposing angles. This fabric is then made into blankets, sweaters, scarves, and more.
Why Choose Wool?
Wool is an all-natural, renewable resource that has been used in textiles for centuries. Not only is it easy to recycle into new blankets and throws, but wool is also biodegradable. Leave it to Minnesotans in the age before central heating to create the highest quality blankets around. The amazing thing about wool is that it reacts to your body temperature. It will keep you warm when you’re cold and help cool your body in the summer months. Wool is breathable and feels great on your skin.
The Faribault Mill’s story parallels the change in what American consumers are buying these days. Now more than ever, we’ve come to appreciate the quality and detail that goes into well-made items. And there is no better example of that than Faribault wool blankets. Whether you’re looking for a blanket that can be passed down for generations — or simply a stunning throw for the back of your sofa, Faribault wool blankets will leave a lasting impression.