Bedspreads Made In the USA

Maine Heritage Weavers formed when Bates Manufacturing closed its doors after 150 years of service. Former employees of Bates bought one of the original mill buildings, wanting to ensure that the classic bedspreads created by Bates continued manufacturing in the United States. Maine Heritage Weavers currently manufacture the famous Bates Fabrics' candlewick and matelasse bedspread line. They are proud to advertise their bedspreads made in the USA.

Boston industrialist, Benjamin Bates developed a textile mill in 1850. Bates Manufacturing Company was a large contributor to the transformation of Lewiston, Maine from a small agricultural town to a colossal industrial city. The city became a gigantic producer of textiles in New England within ten years.

The company developed a reputation across the nation for elegant bedspreads and other stylish fabrics. 'Martha's Choice' is the original style of bedspread that George Washington chose for his bride. The original weave was lost when textile machinery replaced skilled weavers, but Bates Fabrics was able to recapture that weaving art.

Maine Heritage Weavers continue the tradition of producing one of the finest bedspreads in the United States. Using the skills taught to them by their parents and grandparents they carry on the quality craftsmanship developed at Bates Fabrics. They weave America's most famous bedspreads in their original weight and exquisite beauty.

Using looms similar to the ones used for nearly 150 years, they manufacturer high quality matelasse and terry cotton bedspreads. They use the finest quality yarn on now famous Jacquard looms. They continue the same styles created by Bates and affectionately describe them as 'loomed to be heirloomed'.

Even though the original company was not able to continue business, it is nice to know that the employees were dedicated enough to their product to create their own company and continue the tradition. I can remember my parents having one of the terry cotton bedspreads on their bed for years. Displaying their bedspreads made in the USA, shows the world that there are still skilled craftsmen and women in America that are proud to put their name on their work.