Photo by Travis Hallmark
Blankets with meaning
As an American company with strong roots in the West, Pendleton Woolen Mills seeks to make blankets that are meaningful as well as beautiful. We have woven many blankets that celebrate American patriotism over the years, from the Grateful Nation and Code Talker blankets that celebrate the contributions of our veterans, to retired blankets like Chief Eagle and Home of the Brave.
Here are some beautiful blankets that summon the patriotic spirit of this Independence Day.
Mountain Majesty
Inspired by Navajo hand weaving created in the Southwest in the early 20th century, this pattern incorporates symbols of hope, abundance and successful journeys. Muted colors and mountain-like steps evoke sunset over a western landscape.
Dawn’s Early Light:
“O say can you see by the dawn’s early light.” These words were penned on the back of an envelope in 1814 by young lawyer and poet Francis Scott Key. Key was held captive on a Royal Navy ship as British ships in Chesapeake Bay bombarded Fort McHenry throughout the night. When dawn broke, the fort was still standing, the American flag still waving. It was a turning point in the war of 1812, and the birth of our national anthem, the “Star Spangled Banner.” This blanket, woven in our American mills, commemorates the Bicentennial of that momentous morning in U.S. history. Fifteen red and white stripes and stars represent those on the flag at that time. Each star is shaped like an aerial view of the fort, which was built in the shape of a five-pointed star. Striations and imprecise images give the design a vintage Americana look.
BRAVE STAR
The Brave Star blanket celebrates the patriotism of Native Americans who have defended our country in battles since the 19th century. The design, based on the American flag, marries modern asymmetry and vintage Americana. The unique striations reflect a time when dyes were made from plants.
GRATEFUL NATION
The Grateful Nation blanket honors the sacrifice of brave men and women who have defended freedom throughout the history of the United States of America. Each authentically colored stripe represents a service ribbon awarded to veterans of historical conflicts in which our country has engaged:
- World War II Asiatic Pacific Campaign
- World War II Europe-Africa-Middle East Campaign
- Korean Service
- US Vietnam Service
- Southwest Asia Service (Gulf War)
- War on Terrorism
CODE TALKER (retired)
The Code Talker blanket honors the crucial role played by Native Americans in defending our country during World War II by developing a code that could not be cracked, based on the Navajo language. Many have seen the popular movie “Windtalkers“, but the actual history of the code talkers is more riveting than any fiction. You can learn more at their official site. This blanket is officially retired as of 2012.
HOME OF THE FREE (retired)
Home of the Free is an older retired blanket from the early 2000s. Roaming buffalo and the Stars and Stripes speak of the spirit of the West. If you are lucky enough to have one of these retired blankets, cherish it. This blanket is nearly impossible to acquire, as it spoke to so many Americans after the events of 9/11.
Our blankets are proudly made in the USA. Please visit one of our union mills if you can, to see exactly how we produce our textiles and finished blankets.
And from our family to yours, have a safe and wonderful 4th of July.
