History of Teddy bear subject of next CLHS program

The County Line Historical Society of Wayne/Holmes announced its June 15 community program, The History of the Teddy Bear. This event is free and will be held at 1 p.m. at the historic Shreve Presbyterian Church, 343 N. Market St., Shreve. Parking is available across North Market Street from the church.

Did you know the Teddy bear was invented in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt? It all began when Theodore Roosevelt was on a bear-hunting trip near Onward, Mississippi on Nov. 14, 1902.

The guest speaker is Cherie Baer Graham of Dalton, a professional restorationist and appraisal expert for over 40 years. Also known as Dr. Frank-N-Stuff, she is No. 1 on the German-made Steiff’s brand list of restorers. She will take attendees back into history to the 26th president of the United States. She will tell the true story of how the Teddy bear got its name.

During her presentation Graham will bring many of her vintage bears including bears made by Steiff, Hermann, Merrythought, Ideal, Gund and more. This will be a hands-on program where attendees get the chance to touch and hold old bears made in the early 1900s.

Bring your Teddy bears, other bear memorabilia and other old stuffed toys. Graham will share what to look for while at garage sales or the Goodwill store.