Hacienda Blankets, A Favorite in the American West

Written By: Sarah Reish

The American West is cowboy country. Its wide-open ranges made this the perfect region to cultivate the American beef industry. Wyoming and Montana were sought after by ranchers and cattle drivers seeking their own claim of land and riches. They drove herds of cattle from the southern border of Texas and with them came their own cowboy culture that was richly influenced by the Latin community. Much of what we see represented in western décor, fashion and tack can be traced back to Latin culture. One such example is the sarape, also known as the hacienda blanket. 

History

The sarape was first seen as a garment worn by Latin men. Although worn similarly to a poncho, this garment did not feature a hole in the middle, making it wide functioning. The sarape has been used as a garment, saddle blanket, wall hanging, area rug, throw blanket or simply a blanket for personal warmth. Now widely known as a hacienda blanket because of its wide variety of uses in the “hacienda” or home. 

On Trend

The hacienda blanket has remained “in style” for several decades and this can most likely be attributed to its stunning design and vibrant colors as well as its durability. Fundamental features include rich colors, fringed edges, stripes at each end and a diamond design in the center. Although not featured in all designs by current fabricators, it is the most common. Customarily, the hacienda blanket is made of wool or a wool and cotton blend, making the hacienda blanket warm and durable.

Modern Use

My hacienda blanket makes the perfect campfire companion. On cool nights, sitting around the campfire, my hacienda blanket offers me warmth and comfort where the fire can’t. It is a camping must have for me and always makes the list. 

Get Yours!

Lisa, from the Wyoming Buffalo Company, in downtown Cody, Wyoming, has a wide selection of hacienda blankets. Special thanks to Lisa for her continued support of Live WYld and for helping us curate amazing content each month. Get your very own Hacienda blanket in the store or online. Mine may be for warmth and comfort, but yours may be for home décor, saddle décor or fashion. Whatever you use your hacienda blanket for it will soon become your favorite. Share your photos on social media and tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld