Teddy bears invited to Hoffman Christmas celebration

All Hoffman Estates Teddy Bears are invited to a Christmas party to celebrate their status as cuddly, comforting and memorable companions to children.

Youngsters from 3 to 6 years old may pack up their bears for "Teddy Bear Holiday Party." It is No. 13 for the Historical Sites Commission of Hoffman Estates, which sponsors the free event that has a Teddy Bear-decorated Christmas tree.

The bears and their owners should arrive at the party before 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, in Sunderlage Farmhouse, 1775 Vista Lane in the village.

While waiting for a visit from Santa Claus, who always arrives with a smile, a hearty ho, ho, ho and a sack of surprises, the youngsters are treated to child-friendly refreshments at the festive event. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Retaining its popularity through the years, the Teddy Bear concept began when President Theodore Roosevelt spared the life of a bear cub during a 1902 hunting trip. The following day "The Washington Post" cartoonist Clifford Berryman depicted a cute furry bear in a tree. Shortly thereafter the Teddy (for Theodore Roosevelt) Bear was born in Germany when an artist created a standing bear. Since those bears bring comfort to numbers of children worldwide.

Under the supervision of the commission, Chairman Marilyn Lind and members host the Teddy Bear party for the enjoyment of children but also to show off the Sunderlage farmhouse located on land that dates to the 1832 Blackhawk War. Johann Sunderlage, who emigrated from Hannover, Germany, traveled back to Hannover and returned with four families. Once settled he married the former Catherine Greve and lived in a log cabin before the current house was constructed.

Party reservations are due Friday, Dec. 12, by calling the village at (847) 781-2606.