Wendy Boston Bears – Teddy Bear, History, Information

Wendy Boston bears was started by Wendy and Ken Boston in South Wales in 1945 after World War II. They moved to larger premises at Crickhowell and Abergavenny in 1948 and operated under the name Wendy Boston (Crickhowell) Ltd. They revolutionized bear manufacturing by introducing the first washable bear to Britain in 1954 and also introduced the safe screw in locked plastic eyes which was attached by a rust proof nut behind the plush. These teddy bears proved to be very popular after their launch on BBC television in 1955. By 1964, as Wendy Boston Playsafe Toys Ltd., they were producing over a quarter of UK’s total teddy bear exports. Denys Fisher Toys took over the company in 1968 and closed down operations in 1976. Most of the teddy bears were made of synthetic fibers like nylon but she also produced a line of mohair bears. Most of the Wendy Boston bears are unjointed with undefined feet and often have ears in one piece with the head. This was so they wouldn’t lose an ear when line dried. They come in many colors with short or long pile plush. The label includes instructions to “Wash in “lukewarm suds.” Some specify Persil, a laundry detergent whose maker endorsed Wendy Boston bears.