The Bates of Maine Company was founded in Lewiston, Maine in 1850 and, in short order, became a world-wide leader in textile manufacturing. At one point they employed more than 6,500 people in five plants and their prosperity continued throughout the Civil War and two World Wars. During the 1950's, Bates was the largest woven Jacquard bedspread manufacturer in the world.

Things did not go so well in the 60's, 70's and 80's due to competition from overseas, economic and other factors. That is one reason their spreads and coverlets were so hard to find. But in 1993 they decided to change their name to Bates of Maine and become aggressive in the bedspread and coverlet business. In 2002, Bates of Maine was purchased by a group and renamed Maine Heritage Weavers.

The new company is only weaving two designs - previously called Abigail and Heritage, but now named First Lady and Heirloom, respectively. They are the same design and quality. They may weave other designs in the future.

They manufacture a fine, high quality product and that is one of the many reasons that Carter Canopies decided to continue to market their products.

Click on the pictures below to see pricing, size availability and a larger picture of the product.

First Lady's Choice (previously Abigail) Bedspread 100% cotton matelasse weave, elegant floral center medallion with french scroll background, scalloped fringe, rounded corners on bottom.

Heirloom (previously Heritage) Coverlet This classic matelasse has a particular place in Early American history. During the 19th century, bed covers like this were a work of love. . . padded and stiched by hand. A century later, Bates found a way to reproduce this puffed pattern, true to its heritage in authenticity and loomed to last. The intricate medallions and leaves recall 19th century elegance. Richly finished with ball fringe.

Martha Washington's First (previously America's First) Bedspread Colonial American reproduction featuring garlands and stylized flowers. The terry loops create a hand woven effect. Luxurious double knotted string fringe on 3 sides rounded corners on bottom.

Martha Washington's First (previously America's First) Coverlet George Washington chose the original of this spread for his bride. The original weave itself, older than Christianity, was lost when textile machinery replaced skilled weavers. For over 40 years, Bates has recaptured this lost weaving art and has produced the most beautiful bedspread of our time, a collector's item in its own right.