Winnie-the-Pooh

When I was younger, like 45 years ago younger, I roamed the 100 Aker woods with Winnie-the-Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Kanga, Roo, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, and Christopher Robin. I even remember running into a Heffalump! My mother would read to us over many hours the tales of Pooh and his friends, and even his misadventures! (Like the time he was stuck in the honey jar!) I loved those stories as a kid, and even today, the wisdom of Pooh charms me.

Not many people know that Pooh was really based on a real bear. During WW1, a young lieutenant purchased an orphaned black bear cub and he named her Winnipeg, or Winnie for short. The bear fast became the mascot of this lieutenant’s brigade. When it was time for him to deploy to France, he took her to the London Zoo where she became a popular attraction.

Christopher Robin, A.A. Milne’s son fell in love with her and he named his own stuffed bear Winnie. Milne took inspiration from this and soon began writing about Winnie and Christopher Robin’s adventures in 100 Aker Wood. Many of the places that found their way into his stories can actually be found outside of London. January 18th is the official Winnie-the-Pooh day! Celebrate with the characters and find your way back into 100 Aker Woods. Perhaps a game of “Pooh Sticks” would be fun? Share a story with a little one!