The Cinnamon Bear

The Cinnamon Bear is a beloved American old-time radio program that has become a cherished holiday tradition for generations of listeners. This enchanting children’s fantasy series first aired in 1937, captivating audiences with its whimsical tale of adventure and Christmas magic.

The story follows twins Judy and Jimmy Barton as they embark on a fantastical quest to recover their missing silver star, an essential decoration for their Christmas tree. Guiding them on their journey is the Cinnamon Bear himself - a stuffed bear with shoe-button eyes and a green ribbon around his neck, who comes to life and leads the children into the magical realm of Maybeland.

Throughout their adventure, Judy and Jimmy encounter a colorful cast of characters, including the mischievous Crazy Quilt Dragon, who repeatedly attempts to steal the star for himself, the Wintergreen Witch, Fe Fo the Giant, and even Santa Claus.

The series was designed to be listened to daily between Thanksgiving and Christmas, with 26 episodes building excitement and anticipation as the holiday season progressed.

Originally produced by Transco (Transcription Company of America) in Hollywood, The Cinnamon Bear quickly became a holiday staple on radio stations across the United States. Its blend of fantasy, humor, and heartwarming themes resonated with listeners young and old, establishing it as a beloved part of many families’ Christmas traditions.

The Stars

The charm of The Cinnamon Bear owes much to its talented voice cast, who brought the magical characters to life with their performances.

At the heart of the show was Buddy Duncan, a little person and vaudeville comedian, who provided the voice of the titular Cinnamon Bear. His portrayal gave the character a unique and endearing quality that captivated young listeners.

Other notable performers included Barbara Jean Wong as Judy Barton and Bobby La Manche as Jimmy Barton, bringing warmth and enthusiasm to the roles of the adventurous twins.

Joseph Kearns, known for his later work on the television show Dennis the Menace, lent his voice to the Crazy Quilt Dragon, while Verna Felton portrayed Judy and Jimmy’s mother.

The cast also featured several well-known radio actors of the era, including Gale Gordon as Weary Willie the Stork and Oliver Ostrich, Lou Merrill as Santa Claus, and Martha Wentworth as the Wintergreen Witch.

Their collective talents helped create a rich and immersive audio world that continues to delight listeners to this day.

Key Dates

• November 26, 1937: The Cinnamon Bear made its radio debut, launching what would become a holiday tradition for many families.
• December 25, 1937: The final episode of the first season aired, concluding the magical adventure on Christmas Day.
• 1940: Due to syndication issues at Transco, the program was not officially broadcast this year, although some stations may have aired previous recordings.
• 1941: Broadcasters Program Syndicate acquired Transco’s programming, allowing The Cinnamon Bear to return to national airwaves.
• 1950s: Syndication of the series was taken over by Lou R. Winston, ensuring its continued presence on radio stations across the country.

Other Information

The Cinnamon Bear has demonstrated remarkable staying power, with its popularity extending far beyond its initial run. The Metropolitan Washington Old-Time Radio Club reports that the show has been broadcast by at least one station somewhere in the world every holiday season since its debut, a testament to its enduring appeal.

The series has had a particularly strong following in Portland, Oregon, often cited as a “Cinnamon Bear hotspot.” In the early years, department stores like Lipman’s featured costumed Cinnamon Bears alongside Santa Claus, where children could share their Christmas wishes and receive cookies. This tradition continued even after Frederick & Nelson absorbed the Lipman’s brand.

The show’s influence extended beyond radio. In 1951, a television adaptation was created using hand puppets, with the original radio program providing the soundtrack. This innovative approach allowed a new generation to experience the magic of The Cinnamon Bear in a visual medium.

The legacy of The Cinnamon Bear continues to inspire new interpretations and celebrations. In 2005, Portland Spirit Cruises developed the first Cinnamon Bear Cruise, based on the radio show’s characters and storyline. This immersive experience allows families to meet Queen Melissa, the Cinnamon Bear, Crazy Quilt Dragon, and other beloved characters from the series, creating new holiday memories for modern audiences.

In 2007, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the show, Rick Lewis and Veronica Marzilli published “The Cinnamon Bear in the Adventure of the Silver Star,” a book that brought the classic tale to life for a new generation of readers. The publication featured illustrations by Jerrel McQueen and Timothy Holmes, helping to visualize the magical world of Maybeland for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The enduring popularity of The Cinnamon Bear is a testament to the timeless appeal of its storytelling, the charm of its characters, and the way it captures the magic and wonder of the holiday season. Whether enjoyed through vintage radio broadcasts, modern adaptations, or live experiences, this delightful series continues to be a cherished part of Christmas traditions for many families, bridging generations with its tale of adventure, friendship, and holiday spirit.

You can listen to the whole series here on RUSC including two promotional episodes.