Rescued, restored
and ready for new adventures.

Featured Story Bear

Algernon – Probable 1930s Chiltern Hugmee Teddy Bear

Circa 1930–1937 · Probable Chiltern Toy Works – Hugmee · England

"Hello, I’m Algernon — a dignified English teddy bear believed to have been made by Chiltern Toy Works as part of its early Hugmee family, circa 1930–1937. My attribution is probable rather than definitive, as my original label has not survived. My long integral muzzle, three-piece head, amber-and-black glass eyes, vertically stitched black nose, drumstick-shaped legs with narrow ankles, paired foot claws and working tilt growler all point strongly towards an early Chiltern Hugmee. I am five-way disc jointed and still carry the unmistakable character of a much-loved pre-war bear. Time has softened my golden mohair and left me with extensive honest pile loss, worn pale felt pads and several old repairs, including a small line of red stitching at my left paw. These signs of age form part of my history and have been carefully photographed rather than disguised. I measure approximately 54 cm (21¼ inches) and weigh 578 g. I am an antique collector’s bear rather than a children’s toy, ready to become a quietly distinguished member of a new collection."