 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. 
Pictured right: An exceptionaly fine and rare Steiff black teddy bearSold for £91,750, December 2000 Christies, London, South Kensington 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. 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 NOTICE - This site is not affiliated or associated in any way with Steiff TM. The purpose of these pages is to provide information to collectors of Steiff Toys. site by lincs-on-line | hosted by ukhosts.com | sponsors farmshop.uk.com |
