The Teddy Bear Origin Story
Margaret Steiff founded this company in 1880 with a commitment to making plush toys and collectibles of the highest quality. In 1902, her nephew, Richard, designed for her the world’s very first stuffed bear with moveable arms and legs. An American trader noticed the Steiff bears and ordered 3,000 of the adorable creations. He sold them in the United States and named them for President Theodore Roosevelt: Teddy Bear was officially born.
Steiff: My First Teddy Bear, But Not My Last
Today, a Steiff My First Teddy Bear is renowned as the epitome of cuddly childhood wonder. Generations of grownups love to share the joy of Steiff’s My First Bear with the special babies in their lives. The simply sweet design of this teddy bear has remained much as Richard Steiff envisioned it. And now we’ve added the always popular Hoppie Rabbit to our My First Steiff Collection, as well.
Our talented artisans bring each Steiff First Teddy Bear to life by hand with the softest, finest materials. Each teddy bear is rigorously tested and certified to be free of harmful substances, including dyes and fillings, by OEKO-TEX, an independent, international testing organization. The words “My First Steiff” embroidered on the bear’s or bunny’s foot pad commemorate the beginning of a long relationship with Steiff premium craftsmanship.