A Short History Of The Teddy Bear

We all had a most favorite stuffed animal when we were young, and as adults, this fondness of our stuffed toys has prompted us to become collectors of them, especially those made by Steiff.

The original animals can demand high prices at auctions and fairs these days, particularly the bears.

The Steiff stuffed animals history begins in the town of Giengen an der Brenz in Germany, around 1880.

Margarete Steiff made toy animals from her own designs as a hobby, she was wheelchair bound at the time.

She created mostly cats, pigs, elephants and dogs.

The company, as we know it today, began when Margarete's nephew Richard Steiff invented the first bear with jointed limbs in 1902.

This bear rapidly became popular in the US and around the world, as it won first place at the World Exhibition in St. Louis in 1904.

It became known as a teddy bear, as in honor of President Teddy Roosevelt.

With their stuffed animals still produced today in the town of Giengen, the Steiff company is known for their high quality animals.

Giengen is a mecca for admirers of the products as there is an Adventure Museum as well as the factory.

The museum tells the history of the products and a gift shop sells bears, replicas of past animal products, historic catalogues and porcelain.

The Classic range by Steiff is considered the top of the line, featuring Steiff stuffed animals that are hand made.

Several of the designs are said to date back to the early 1900's.

There is also a bear with a stitched on Valentine's heart, which makes a romantic gift.

The range also includes characters from the Beatrix Potter stories, including Peter Rabbit and the Mrs. Tiggy Winkle hedgehog.

One of the most popular designs for kids is the Paddington Bear, wearing his trademark blue hat and red duffel coat.

Steiff Baby animals are designed with babies and toddlers in mind.

Teddy bears, kittens and puppies are included in this collection that is designed from durable, high quality materials.

The Cosy Animal line has machine washable animals and there are also children's clothes, keyrings, bags and gift sets.

Another great collection is the Steiff Limited Edition selection that showcases a pink and grey replica of the world famous 1908 teddy bear.

This selection also includes a Pierrot Bear, a Moon Bear and a fantastic Grizzly Bear.

Another one of my favorites in this range is the famous character from story books, the Rubert Bear.

Although Steiff produces several categories of stuffed animals, the will always be known for creating the teddy bear.

Looking for Steiff Stuffed Animals? Visit our site for more information.