The History of Teddy Bears

Receiving the gift of a teddy bear for a birthday or another special occasion is something just about every child experiences, and playing with a little furry friend can be one of the most magical times for a young one. Children have always found comfort in having soft toys, but teddy bears in particular seem to be the oldest, most recognisable form. And they can even be given to adults as a cute way to say thank you or to show your love for a partner on Valentine’s Day.

But how exactly did our fascination with teddy bears come to be?

Origins

 

President Roosevelt with Teddy Bear

The creation of the Teddy bear came from a story of the American President Theodore Roosevelt whilst on a hunting trip in Mississippi in 1902. It was on this day that ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt showed a great deal of compassion for a captured black bear and the word soon got out in the papers, the president being the subject of many satirical cartoon and editorials.

Morris Michtom a Russian immigrant that was living in New York, noticed the public interest in Roosevelt’s affinity with bears and decided to manufacture a stuffed bear for his toyshop, after gaining the approval of the US President for the use of the name Teddy. After approval was given, it was put into production and the Teddy bear was ready to spark the imaginations of every child that came into contact with these cuddly creatures.

The toy proved to be very popular and sales skyrocketed. This led to Michtom create the Ideal Novelty and Toy Company, which remained successful until the 1980’s, when it was finally sold and the name changed. However, by this stage, the company had well and truly shaped the toy industry - and possibly even the retail industry - forever.

The modern interest

There are many reasons why the classic teddy bear is as popular today as it ever was. Seen as an iconic soft toy even today, the teddy bear is a great gift for any young child and is seen as a comforting friend and companion. Being soft and cuddly is all that is needed, and with quality craftsmanship from the best toymakers, a good teddy bear can be with you for a lifetime.

Whilst many children in this day and age like to play with electronic games, video games and other more technologically more advanced toys, the humble teddy bear always has its place in any home. What better gift to give than the gift of a cuddly, cute little friend?

When Morris Michtom first placed his child’s cuddly toy in the window of his toy shop, named Teddy after The U.S president Theodore Roosevelt, little did he know what an iconic celebration of childhood would follow his creation!

submit a blog