Materials:
Buggy blankets were often made of mohair, wool, horsehair, or a combination of these materials. These fabrics were chosen for their warmth, durability, and resistance to the elements.

Designs:
Buggy blankets frequently featured intricate and vibrant designs, including floral motifs, animals (such as dogs, horses, or stags), and geometric patterns. These designs were not only decorative but also a status symbol.

Functionality:
The blankets were sometimes weighted at the corners to prevent them from blowing away in the wind. The thickness of the blankets, combined with the weight, ensured passengers stayed warm even in freezing temperatures.

Antique buggy blankets were primarily owned by wealthier individuals and families who could afford horse-drawn carriages. These blankets
were a luxury accessory in the colder months and were often passed down through generations due to their high quality and sentimental value. The vibrant patterns and materials used in the blankets made them not only functional but also stylish items for display and warmth during outdoor travel.

As automobiles began to replace horse-drawn carriages in the 20th century, the production of buggy blankets waned, and companies like Strook and Chase shifted focus to other products. Today, these antique blankets are prized collectibles, sought after for their craftsmanship, historical value, and nostalgic ties to the era of horse-drawn travel. They are often repurposed in fashion and home decor, like bespoke coats or upholstery.

Strook Company
Based in New York City, the Strook Company was one of the premier manufacturers
of buggy and sleigh blankets during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Strook specialized in textile production, using luxurious fabrics like mohair and horsehair for their blankets. Their designs often featured elaborate animal motifs, including dogs, horses, and deer, as well as nature-inspired patterns. Strook blankets were known for their vivid colors and attention to detail, making them not only functional but also fashionable.

Chase Manufacturing Company

Another significant player in the buggy blanket industry was the Chase Manufacturing Company, also based in New York. Chase blankets were known for their distinctive and artistic patterns, which often depicted animals, such as horses, and pastoral scenes. These blankets were crafted with exceptional detail and care, reflecting the wealth and status of their owners. The Chase Company was well-regarded for producing not just buggy blankets but also horse blankets and other carriage-related accessories.

Intricate Patterns: These blankets were often adorned with intricate patterns, including floral designs, animal motifs (horses, dogs, stags), and geometric shapes. Many were woven or printed in rich colors such as deep reds, golds, and greens.

Symbolic Motifs: Certain blankets featured symbols or motifs that had personal or regional significance, such as family crests, floral designs, or wildlife images.