Among Pendleton’s many patterns, none is more recognizable than the Chief Joseph blanket. First woven in the 1920s, the design honors Chief Joseph (Hin-mah-too-yah-lat-kekt), the respected leader of the Nez Perce (Nimíipuu) people. Remembered for his courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting his people, Chief Joseph remains one of the Pacific Northwest’s most admired Native leaders.
Our USA team traveled to New Mexico to speak with four members of the Native community whose experiences reveal the many ways this iconic blanket becomes part of life’s biggest moments. Their stories show that a blanket can carry far more than warmth, it carries memories, gratitude, identity, and love.
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