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THE MERRY BLOG | APRIL 2026
Winnipeg: The Bear Behind the Name ‘Winnie’ the Pooh
2026 marks a truly special literary milestone; 100 years of Winnie the Pooh. Cherished around the world for his gentle wisdom and bumbling demeanour, this beloved British bear has captivated generations. Yet behind the character lies an extraordinary true story of companionship, featuring a real Canadian black bear named ‘Winnipeg’.
Long before Winnie the Pooh became a household name, the story began with a little orphaned Black Bear cub who was rescued by a British Army officer in 1914. Lieutenant Harry Colebourn was based in Winnipeg, Manitoba while serving with the Royal Canadian Army Veterinary Corps during World War 1, and fell in love with the young cub whom he purchased from a hunter. He named his new companion after his adoptive new hometown – fondly shortening her name to “Winnie”!
When Lieutenant Colebourn’s regiment was sent to train in England, Winnie accompanied him, quickly becoming a beloved mascot to the Second Canadian Infantry Brigade. But when duty called him to the battlefields of France, he chose to leave her in the safe keeping of London Zoo. There, Winnie’s gentle nature soon won the hearts of many visitors.
Among those visitors was young Christopher Robin Milne, whose frequent trips to the zoo during the early 1920s sparked a lasting bond with Winnipeg. So enamoured by her, Christopher is said to have renamed his own teddy bear – previously known as 'Edward' – after Winnie. This simple gesture paired with the unique friendship between the boy and his childhood bear would inspire his father, AA Milne, to create the character of Winnie the Pooh. He wrote the original storybook that was published in 1926, creating a literary legacy that continues to enchant readers around the world today, a whole century later.
Set within the idyllic Hundred Acre Wood, the tales of Winnie and his various animal companions highlight themes of friendship, kindness, and life’s simple joys. As the centenary invites audiences to revisit the classic books, there is a renewed appreciation for the real bear who shaped one of the most well-loved names in children’s literature.
Honouring this remarkable legacy, Merrythought presents ‘Winnipeg’ as a lasting tribute to the friendly Black Bear known for giving Winnie the Pooh his name. World-recognised for our dedication to British craftsmanship, we are proud to have brought this story to life through this unique collectable bear, hand-crafted using the finest materials and traditional techniques.
Made from the softest jet-black alpaca plush, this important bear features a contrasting fawn-coloured muzzle, embroidered paw detailing, expressive life-like eyes, and a cheerful smile.
Since 2026 marks 100 years of Winnie the Pooh, it’s only befitting that the story of this iconic character began with a real bear and an act of compassion. Whether rediscovering AA Milne’s timeless tales or looking for a keepsake to commemorate the character’s unique story, Merrythought’s limited edition ‘Winnipeg’ is sure to bring years of joy to any home.
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