My Pleated Blanket

Hazelton (Non-Indigenous)
Pencil on Arches acid free paper
10” x 8”

Trade blankets were a main trade item on the north coast of BC (port of Prince Rupert). Many Tsimshian, Gitxsan and Kitselas Nation members made partial home of the port, waiting on particular ships and trade boats to arrive. Trade blankets provided warmth, in general, but extra helpful during the long waits on the rainy docks. My Pleated Blanket shows a woman who modified her blanket with long pleats to allow it to wrap more efficiently around the body, keeping the wet cold air blocked out. Circa 1918.