Merrythought Limited of Ironbridge, Shropshire, England, has made teddy bears since 1931 and they were (and are) top quality products, the best of English bears. No-one in my family has any connection with the company but I will admit to a slight interest in their traditionally-styled bears as collectables.
My Father started what has become a bit of a family tradition by presenting me with a Merrythought bear when I first appeared on the scene in 1940. That particular bear (known with stunning originality as Teddy, or Edward) became a constant companion when I was very young and remained in residence for years after he had become somewhat worn and lost a great deal of his fur.
The picture above shows “Teddy” with his first owner (OK, have a laugh!) and as this was in 1940 I assume he (the bear that is) was made with bronze mohair.
When my daughter Jennie was born I was ready for her with a new Edward. He is on the right in the picture below and he is, fittingly, a Merrythought Traditional Bear, looking pretty good for a 33-year-old.
I was very happy to be able to continue the tradition recently when my granddaughter was born in May 2012. It had to be a top quality English bear in a traditional style, so a Merrythought bear of course. This time it is William (on the left above), a 16″ Traditional bear from the London Gold collection.
What a marvelous tradition! The bears are very handsome – and how lucky you were to have one of the very first. I read an article about the company that was interesting – especially that Japanese buyers have helped them maintain their business.
I never had a bear myself – for me, it was a Raggedy Ann doll that my mother made. I still have her, and she’s worn rather well, too. A new pinafore and pantaloons were needed a couple of years ago, but she’s otherwise fine, with bright eyes and nice, red hair!