American Woolen Company

The story of the American Woolen Company reflects both the long history of American textile manufacturing and the modern effort to revive it. While many historic mills have disappeared over the past century, American Woolen Company represents a renewed commitment to producing high-quality wool textiles in the United States.

The company traces its roots to the early industrial period of the American Northeast, when textile mills powered the growth of manufacturing across New England. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, woolen mills were central to American industry, producing fabrics, blankets, and uniforms that were used throughout the country.

In 1899, financier William M. Wood brought together several struggling woolen mills to form the American Woolen Company. His vision was to consolidate expertise and resources in order to strengthen domestic textile production and compete with imported fabrics. At its height, the company operated dozens of mills and became one of the largest woolen manufacturers in the world.

Over time, however, the American textile industry faced increasing challenges. Global competition, shifting manufacturing trends, and the rise of synthetic materials led to the closure of many historic mills across the United States.

In recent years, the American Woolen Company has been revived with a renewed vision: rebuilding a domestic textile ecosystem and preserving the craftsmanship that once defined American manufacturing. Today, the company focuses on producing high-quality wool fabrics and textiles using modern technology while maintaining the heritage techniques that made American wool products so respected.

Putnam Striped Wool Throw

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At the heart of this effort is a commitment to restoring the American wool supply chain from fiber production to finished textile. This includes supporting domestic wool growers, modernizing mill equipment, and ensuring that weaving and finishing processes remain rooted in American manufacturing traditions.

Wool itself remains one of the most remarkable natural fibers used in textile production. Its fibers naturally trap warmth while remaining breathable, helping regulate body temperature in both cold and moderate conditions. Wool is also durable, moisture resistant, and renewable, which has helped it remain a trusted material for blankets and textiles for centuries.

Producing wool textiles involves several key stages. Raw wool is first cleaned and carded to align the fibers. These fibers are then spun into yarn before being woven into fabric on large industrial looms. After weaving, the material is washed, finished, and brushed to create the texture and softness associated with wool blankets.

For American Woolen Company, preserving this process is about more than manufacturing—it is about sustaining an industry that once played a central role in American economic life.

The company continues working toward a broader vision of rebuilding the American textile ecosystem. By combining historic knowledge with modern production capabilities, American Woolen Company demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship and innovation can work together to sustain domestic textile manufacturing.

Today, much of the company’s textile production is centered in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, a historic mill town that has been part of New England’s textile industry for generations. The facility represents both the past and future of American wool manufacturing. While the location reflects the deep roots of New England’s mill history, the equipment and operations inside have been modernized to support high-quality textile production for today’s market.

By investing in facilities like the Stafford Springs mill, American Woolen Company continues its effort to rebuild domestic textile manufacturing—supporting American workers, modernizing production, and preserving the craftsmanship that once defined the country’s wool industry.

For those who value heritage products, blankets produced by mills like these represent more than simple household items. They reflect a continuing effort to maintain the skills, materials, and traditions that shaped American industry.

At Stillwell Trading Co., we are proud to carry products produced by the American Woolen Company. Each piece reflects the quality, craftsmanship, and renewed commitment to American wool textiles that this historic manufacturer represents.