Minklander by Darlene Knitwear

[Vintage Curious]

Hello!

Im new to the forums here, and was looking around for info on this 1950’s piece, I was led to the VFG page and there were many similar pieces but nothing named “Minklander” and was wondering if it might be of any relevance to anybody, or if anyone had info on it?

Thank you!

 

[Jen S]

Darlene is a known brand, “Minklander” could be how they refer to that fiber blend. This sweater looks more early 60s to me than 50s.

 

[Vintagiality]

Here is an ad from 1958 that describes it. It’s a type of yarn: 3-ply Minklam yarn. Minklam yarn was a “lush blend of fur fibers and wool” according to a Glamour magazine article

 

[Vintage Curious]

Wow thank you,
I really appreciate the info and the picture is very neat! You guys certainly are good at this haha, thank you again =)

 

[The Vintage Vendeuse]

I was going to say 60s, too. Fab color!
The RN number search comes back as Gemco Sportswear Inc.

 

[lkranieri]

I was going to say 60s, too. Fab color!
The RN number search comes back as Gemco Sportswear Inc.

I read the RN number as 16877, but I assume you read it as 16377, as it is not very clear. The 16877 RN number on the OP's label belongs to MKM Knitting Mills Inc of Manchester NY(?), but that seems to be an error, as MKM was in Manchester NH, as was Darlene Knitwear.

If you Google MKM Knitting in Manchester, the results are all for Minnesota Knitting Mills in Manchester New Hampshire, family owned since 1908. This blurb from an article about Darlene confirms the connection between Darlene Knitwear Inc (as seen on the OP's label) and MKM.

 

[The Vintage Vendeuse]

Thanks for clearing that up, Lynne!
I did indeed read it as 16377.

 

[lkranieri]

Thanks for clearing that up, Lynn!
I did indeed read it as 16377.

I, too, wasn't sure which number it was.