Faribault Mill: Crafting American Wool Blankets Since 1865

For more than a century and a half, Faribault Mill has played an important role in the story of American textile manufacturing. Located in Faribault, Minnesota, the mill has been producing wool blankets since 1865, making it one of the oldest and most respected woolen mills still operating in the United States.

The history of the mill is closely tied to the development of the town itself. The community of Faribault was founded by Alexander Faribault, a French-Canadian trader who established a settlement along the Cannon River in the early 1800s. The river’s steady water flow made it an ideal location for mills, and by the mid-19th century the area had begun to grow into an important center for manufacturing.

In 1865, shortly after the end of the Civil War, the Faribault Woolen Mill was established along the river. Like many mills of the time, it relied on the river’s power to operate its machinery and produce wool textiles for the growing nation.

From the beginning, the mill focused on producing high-quality wool blankets designed to withstand the harsh winters of the upper Midwest. These blankets quickly developed a reputation for durability and warmth, qualities that made them a trusted household staple.

Over the years, Faribault Mill became known not only for the quality of its blankets but also for its ability to maintain control over the entire manufacturing process. The mill operates as a vertical woolen mill, meaning the full production process—from raw fiber to finished blanket—takes place within the same facility.

The process begins with raw wool fibers, which are cleaned and carded to align the fibers into workable strands. The fibers are then spun into yarn before moving to the weaving floor, where large looms interlace the yarn to form the structure of the blanket.

After weaving, the blankets move through the finishing stages. The fabric is washed, brushed, and finished to enhance both softness and durability. These finishing steps help bring out wool’s natural insulating qualities and create the warmth and comfort wool blankets are known for.

Wool itself remains one of the most practical natural fibers used in textiles. Its fibers naturally trap warmth while still allowing air and moisture to circulate. This balance helps regulate temperature, keeping the user warm without trapping excess heat.

Faribault Mill has also played a role in American military history. For more than a century, the company has produced wool blankets for the United States military, providing soldiers with dependable protection in harsh conditions. The durability required for military use helped reinforce the mill’s reputation for producing exceptionally reliable blankets.

Like many American textile manufacturers, Faribault faced significant challenges as production shifted overseas in the late 20th century. Yet the mill survived and continues to operate today, preserving a rare example of American wool manufacturing that has endured for more than 150 years.

Today, Faribault Mill remains one of the last operating vertical woolen mills in the United States, continuing a tradition of craftsmanship that has shaped American textile history for generations.

At Stillwell Trading Co., we are proud to carry blankets produced by Faribault Mill. Each piece reflects the durability, craftsmanship, and heritage of a mill that has been weaving American wool textiles since the Civil War era.

Faribault Northfield Plaid Throw

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