Harry John Butlin - in memory
Binkie the Bear - Its meaning
Sir William (Billy) Butlin had a younger brother, named Harry John Butlin. He was born in 1904 in Africa Cape Town. Harry John Butlin story is not very well known as he passed away at a young age from Polio. As with William having the nickname of Billy, Harry John Butlin was known as Binkie. Today, this name is celebrated in Butlins alongside his brother as Binkie the Bear.
Whenever I ask in the Butlin's store about this important bear and its relation to the history, I would say 90% of them would not know the history behind the name. The bear is very collectable and many people can't wait for the new version to arrive a year later. Butlin's also has the option to customise your Binkie Bear and make it more for you.
Some basic history, Harry and William would move back to the United Kingdom with their mother, Bertha, when the marriage to their father had not gone well. As they travelled the family showman, known as the Hill Family, Harry would sadly get ill. In 1907, the sad news arrived that Harry had passed away from Polio.
With help from Sammie, I designed this page to celebrate the life of Harry John Butlin and the meaning this amazing bear has to the Butlin's name.
