Replica toy returned to NYPL
The New York Public Library (NYPL) has received a replica of Petit Gourou, a toy that had been missing from its collection for nearly a century. This replica was presented by Queen Camilla during an official visit to the library on April 29, 2026, as part of the centenary celebrations of the publication of Winnie-the-Pooh.Original toy lost decades ago
The original Petit Gourou, a companion to Winnie l'Ourson in A.A. Milne's stories, was lost in the 1930s by Christopher Robin Milne, the author's son, and has never been found. The replica was specially made by the Merrythought house in Shropshire, inspired by a Petit Gourou produced in the early 1920s by Farnell, a historic brand now owned by Merrythought.Centenary celebrations mark milestone
The replica has been added to the library's collection as part of the centenary celebrations, which marked the 100th anniversary of the publication of Winnie-the-Pooh on October 14, 2026. The five original stuffed animals that belonged to Christopher Robin Milne — Winnie, Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger, and Big Gourou — have been on display at the NYPL since 1987.Toys restored and on display
These toys are part of the library's permanent exhibition of treasures and have been restored in 2016, with Eeyore requiring 52 repair pieces. The replica of Petit Gourou is on display in the exhibition Silly Old Bear! Winnie-the-Pooh at 100, which opened on September 10 and runs until November 30.Exhibition highlights centenary
The exhibition includes a first edition of Winnie-the-Pooh from 1926, illustrations by E. H. Shepard, translations, and book mock-ups. The centenary has also reignited demands for the return of the original toys to the United Kingdom, with Gyles Brandreth, close to Christopher Robin, attempting to obtain their loan for British celebrations but being unsuccessful as the library refuses to move these fragile pieces.
