About the Brand

Today, in a historic mill nestled along the Cannon River in Minnesota, a 160-year-old story is still being woven. Faribault Mill endures as one of the last vertical woolen mills in America. Here, fifth generation craftspeople take raw wool and create blankets, throws, scarves and accessories of remarkable comfort and quality. Irreplaceable century-old machinery stands side by side with modern technology in our "new" mill, which was built in 1892. In 2022, we joined forces with another iconic American mill based in Maine that specializes in cotton – Brahms Mount. Together, we are devoted to upholding tradition and classic craftsmanship with our 100% Made in USA products designed to last for generations.Faribault Mill is a living testament to American craftsmanship. Our products are renowned for their comfort and quality and have been loved for generations. From providing woolen blankets for pioneers heading west to comforting our troops through two world wars, Faribault Mill is woven into American history.

1865

The Origin of a Mill

Carl H. Klemer creates what would ultimately become the Faribault Woolen Mill Company. The original horse powered mill initially operated as a wool carding factory, turning local wool into wool batting.

1872

Expansion Into Blankets

Cloth, flannel and wool blankets are offered by the Mill for the first time. Locals use these goods in their homes and buggies. New equipment would later be installed to meet demand for woolen goods in Faribault and the surrounding area.

1917

Military Warmth

As America enters World War I, the Mill supplies over 100,000 olive drab Army blankets and learns what it takes to provide its goods on a larger scale. On the home-front, central heating becomes a way of life and the double-fold blanket sells for $20 a piece.

1937

Department Store Growth

Nearly every major department store is now carrying the Faribault blanket line giving the Mill national recognition as a quality manufacturer of fine woolen goods. Since 1886, the number of woolen mills still operating in the U.S. dropped from 800 to just 80.

1941

A Mission to Help

With the onset of the second World War, most of the production at the Mill is diverted to producing Army blankets and sleeping bags for soldiers. Civilian volunteers flood to the Mill with a mission to help in any way possible.

1965

A Century In Business

Faribault Woolen Mill Company celebrates its 100th anniversary one year after a fire broke out near the Mill's current entrance. They begin to offer a new line of blankets and throws using new colors and designs, all the while expanding uses for its products in commercial airplanes and hotels.

1991

Still Going Strong

After 125 years of success, the company remains in full stride. Acquiring new facilities across the country and expanding capabilities in necessary areas, Faribault sets itself up for an even larger presence moving forward.

2009

Uncertain Future

A number of challenging circumstances causes the Mill to shut its doors for the first time in its long, storied lifetime. Employees of the Faribault Woolen Mill are forced to leave and its equipment is tagged for sale to be shipped overseas.

2011

A New Start

A revival of the Faribault Woolen Mill Company begins. The brand that once ruled American woolen production returns with a new vision built with the same values and dedication it was originally founded upon.