Meet John Paul Port

It all started when…

I was born into a world unlike any other. I was surrounded by teddy bears, dolls, and all sorts of delightful toys. It was a magical place, a world where imagination reigned supreme, and everything was possible. You see, for as long as I can remember, toy collecting has been a part of my family tradition. It all started with my mother, Beverly Port. I remember spending hours with her, listening to her tales about where each toy came from and how she managed to acquire it. I knew from an early age that I would one day carry on the Port family tradition. My love for collecting was ingrained in me from the moment I was born. And now, as an adult, I have made my passion my career.

I have written hundreds of articles on Teddy Bears, for many international publications. My most famous would be the "Bear Sleuth" column written for Teddy Bear Review magazine. I was co-publisher of "Teddy Today" magazine, from 1997-2004. Many bears from my collection have been pictured in books worldwide. I love to share my knowledge by presenting programs, and I provide Teddy Bear identification, at shows around the country. I also sell at various shows to pay for my "Teddy Bear habit." My collection consists of a variety of mohair comfort - from the pristine Steiff to the well-loved Ted with some antique dolls as well. I love them all! I love spreading the joy of Teddy Bear and doll collecting, so here is the Port Collection. I present to you an array of antique Teddy Bears, Steiff animals, toys, dolls, dolls accessories, and Teddy Bear ephemera. I try to find something for every taste, so an occasional artist bear will appear as well - maybe one of my originals. I am a member of the United Federation of Doll Clubs (UFDC) and the National Antique Doll Dealer Association (NADDA), and I stand behind everything I sell. I also take on consignment pieces, please contact me if you have something for sale.

Enjoy this journey down Teddy Bear lane!

Happy Bear Hunting! John