Explore The Story of Faribault Mill
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Today, in a historic mill nestled along the Cannon River in Minnesota, a 157-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.
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Celebrating 150 years and counting, the mill still continues the tradition of creating some of the finest woolen products in the country. 2015
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. 1865
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. 1872
H.F. Klemer and staff
H.F. Klemer and staff outside of the original Mill. 1895
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. 1917
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. 1937
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. 1941
post-war production
Faribault begins post-war production using high-quality, imported fibers from Australia and New Zealand. Later, the company becomes the first to introduce the Pak-A-Robe, a plaid wool sports throw in a convenient carrying case. 1945
moth-proofed
The Mill is the first woolen manufacturer to offer moth-proofed, thermal woven, and washable woolen blankets. The improved functionality becomes widely appreciated in homes and institutions across the country. 1956
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. 1965
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. 1991
150 years young
Celebrating 150 years and counting, the mill still continues the tradition of creating some of the finest woolen products in the country. 2015