Mathews Elementary School celebrated Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th birthday on October 14 with a special event in the school library.

Decorated with balloons, banners and Winnie-the-Pooh displays, the library welcomed students for a celebration of the beloved character and the real bear who inspired the stories.

Students learned about the history of Winnie, a bear cub purchased at a train station during World War I by Lieutenant Harry Colebourn, a veterinarian serving with the Canadian military. Colebourn named the bear Winnipeg after his hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. When he later left for the war, he arranged for Winnie to stay at the London Zoo.

The bear became a favorite with visitors, including author A.A. Milne's son, Christopher Robin. His love for Winnie helped inspire the stories of Winnie-the-Pooh and the Hundred Acre Wood.

During the celebration, students watched a short video about the real Winnie, viewed photographs of the bear, colored birthday pages and enjoyed birthday cake. Classes also had the chance to win prizes.

Thank you to the Mathews Elementary PTO for decorating the library and helping make the celebration special for students!!