We had a huge event a few years ago for the anniversary of the "Teddy Bear"
and introduced a mascot, "Governor Bearstow," named after a real Wisconsin
governor (Barstow) who came from our city. Gov. Bearstow was such a hit that
we had a custom costume made, complete with a fan in the head for some
comfort, and he comes out a couple times a year. He's always a big hit,(what
kid doesn't want to hug a giant teddy bear?) but finding someone who will
wear the costume is a challenge. Even with the fan, it's not very
comfortable. And yes, you do have to have a "handler" with the bear at all
times. City parades, and we have several a year, go right in front of the
museum, so he goes out for them and appears at Brownie Scout events and
occasionally at community events off-site.

Kristin
-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf
Of Jensen Joyce E NRNW
Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 5:13 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Museum Mascots

Does anyone have experience with museum mascots? I have checked the archives
and don't find much. I am particularly interested in how you introduced the
character to your visitors.  Did you  have a naming contest?  What types of
events does the character appear at?  Any other pointers?  

Joyce E. Jensen
Director of Education
Naval Undersea Museum
Navy Region Northwest
1103 Hunley Road
Silverdale, WA 98315-1103
(360) 396-5547 
[log in to unmask]

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