Pendleton Woolen Mills - A Legacy Woven in the American West

For more than 150 years, Pendleton Woolen Mills has been a leading name in American-made wool blankets, heritage clothing, and premium wool textiles. The story began in 1863, when Thomas Kay, a master weaver from England, settled in Oregon’s Pacific Northwest with a vision to produce high-quality wool garments and blankets that would withstand the rugged spirit of the American frontier.

What started as a small woolen operation quickly evolved into one of the most iconic names in American craftsmanship, with a legacy of excellence passed down through six generations. Today, Pendleton continues to set the standard for authentic wool blankets, classic flannel shirts, and heritage apparel—woven with tradition, built to last, and proudly made in the USA.

Pendleton Wool Blankets – Tradition, Craft, and Iconic Design

Pendleton Woolen Mills is world-renowned for its legendary wool blankets, which remain the brand’s most iconic and celebrated products. Still woven in the USA using time-honored techniques, these blankets are crafted with 100% virgin wool or virgin wool blended with cotton, resulting in luxurious warmth, durability, and unmatched quality. Each blanket tells a story—of American heritage, Native traditions, and authentic craftsmanship.

For over a century, Pendleton blankets have played a meaningful role in Native American communities, where they are used in ceremonies, tribal gatherings, and given as gifts of honor and respect. These blankets are symbolic expressions of tradition and connection, often presented during weddings, births, milestones, and memorials. Pendleton’s early designers worked in collaboration with Indigenous tribes—including the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Nez Perce—to create patterns that respectfully reflect cultural significance and traditional color palettes.

Today, that spirit of collaboration continues through partnerships with Native American artists and organizations, such as the American Indian College Fund. Special edition blankets are released each year, with a portion of proceeds supporting Indigenous education and community initiatives.

Among Pendleton’s most admired designs is the Chief Joseph Blanket, one of the brand’s earliest and most enduring patterns, which honors the bravery and legacy of the Nez Perce leader. The American Indian College Fund blankets further celebrate Indigenous artistry, featuring original designs that preserve cultural storytelling while contributing to a brighter future for Native students. Pendleton also pays tribute to America’s natural beauty through its National Park Blanket series, which commemorates national treasures like Yellowstone and Yosemite, each with distinctive stripe patterns and park-specific labels. Another favorite is the Wyeth Trail Blanket, inspired by natural paths and landscapes, blending warm earth tones and geometric motifs rooted in Indigenous storytelling.

Every Pendleton blanket is the result of a meticulous process that begins with careful wool selection, followed by expert dyeing, spinning, weaving, and finishing in Pendleton’s own mills in Oregon and Washington. This vertically integrated approach ensures uncompromising quality and lasting beauty.

Beyond blankets, Pendleton has extended its craftsmanship into a wide range of home and lifestyle products. From ultra-soft cotton velour towels—bringing signature Pendleton patterns to the beach, pool, or bathroom—to decorative pillows, ceramic mugs, and woven throws, the brand’s bold designs can transform any space. Whether you're styling a cozy living room, outfitting a camper van, or furnishing a mountain cabin, Pendleton offers timeless pieces for every adventure.

Whether you're searching for a luxurious wool blanket, a meaningful gift, or heritage décor that blends culture with comfort, Pendleton continues to deliver authentic American craftsmanship woven with history, purpose, and style.

The Pendleton Board Shirt - A Surf Style Icon

No piece of Pendleton apparel is more legendary than the Pendleton Board Shirt. Introduced in the 1950s, this rugged, wool flannel shirt was quickly adopted by Southern California surfers for its warmth, durability, and West Coast cool. It became so synonymous with surf culture that a group of musicians originally called themselves “The Pendletones”—later becoming known as The Beach Boys.

Still made in the USA and featuring premium wool fabric, buttoned flap pockets, and a classic fit, the Pendleton Board Shirt is a timeless style staple worn by generations. Today, Pendleton offers much more than just the Board Shirt. The brand’s apparel line includes wool shirts in classic plaids and seasonal patterns, outwear such as their much appreciated woolen jackets and chore coats as well as traditional western wear.

The Dude Sweater - The Pendleton Westerley Cardigan

The Pendleton Westerley Cardigan is a cult classic that achieved pop culture fame thanks to Jeff Bridges’ character "The Dude" in The Big Lebowski. Originally released in the 1970s as part of Pendleton’s Western-inspired knitwear line, the Westerley features a heavyweight zip-up design, shawl collar, and a unique geometric pattern reminiscent of vintage Western motifs.

After “The Dude” made it famous, demand for the sweater skyrocketed, prompting Pendleton to reintroduce it as a faithful reproduction. Today, it’s a must-have for fans of classic Americana, Big Lebowski enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates cozy, well-made knitwear. The Westerley represents a perfect fusion of pop culture and authentic Pendleton design.

From Mill to Masterpiece - The History of Pendleton

In 1909, Thomas Kay’s grandsons opened the Pendleton Woolen Mills in Pendleton, Oregon, reviving a local mill and transforming it into a hub of textile innovation. Here, Pendleton began developing the vibrant patterns and colorways that would become its signature. With full control over dyeing, spinning, and weaving, the company could create intricate, high-quality wool fabrics unmatched in beauty and function.

Native American Heritage and Collaboration

Pendleton’s legacy is rooted in collaboration with Native American communities. Early designers worked with the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Nez Perce tribes to create culturally significant patterns for the brand’s iconic trade blankets—used in ceremonies, as gifts, and heirlooms. Today, Pendleton continues this tradition through partnerships with Native artists and organizations like the American Indian College Fund, ensuring each design remains respectful and meaningful.

Quality You Can Feel, A Story You Can Trust

At Pendleton, every piece is a chapter in a larger story—one of craftsmanship, heritage, and American identity. From raw wool to final stitch, every stage of production is managed in-house, resulting in unmatched quality control and consistency. The company’s mills in Oregon and Washington are not just factories—they’re living connections to Pendleton’s roots. Whether you’re looking for a wool blanket, a vintage-inspired shirt, or a piece of home décor that tells a story, Pendleton delivers not only warmth and style—but a legacy.