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1997 marked
the 150th anniversary of Margaret Steiff's birth, and although she died
in 1909 the company has continued, and is today probably the world's leading
and most well known soft toy manufacturer.
Margaret overcame polio, which left her wheelchair-bound, to form a successful dress
making business. Whilst following this path, she found a pattern for an elephant.
She made the elephant with the intent of it being used as a pin cushion.
Pictured right: "Teddy Girl" a cinnamon Steiff teddy bear Sold for £110,000, December 1994 a
World record price for a teddy bear Christies,
London, South Kensington
However, the elephant became a favourite toy of her nieces and nephews. Fritz,
Margaret's brother, saw potential and suggested that they try to sell the
toys at the Heidenheim Christmas market. They were an instant success,
and The Margaret Steiff Company was founded in 1880, initially producing
a few animals, with the range growing along with the business.
The
company grew but it was not until the introduction of a bear in 1902 that
the company really expanded. The famous Steiff trademark "KNOPF IM
OHR" - "BUTTON IN EAR" appeared in 1904 as the company tried
to distinguish themselves from other manufacturers.
Pictured right: An exceptionaly fine and rare Steiff black teddy bear
Sold for £91,750, December 2000 Christies,
London, South Kensington
The button is still
very much part of Steiff toy and has come to symbolise Margaret's underlying
philosophies of quality and that only the best was good enough for children.
The Steiff Club began in 1992. The club produces a quarterly magazine,
club members only gifts, a folder, a catalogue, and a membership card.
Steiff produce a large range of soft toys, and also a number of limited edition
toys specific to shops, countries and organisations.
Related Features
A Short History of Teddy Bears
Steiff Teddy Bear Records
Steiff at Auction
Related Sites
Steiff Europe
Steiff USA