Wait! That's not just a sleepy bear, but Sleepy Bear- the mascot for one of the oldest motel chains. Founded in 1939 by Scott King, the first location in San Diego grew and was soon found in major cities across the United States. Sleepy Bear made his appearance around 1954 and was soon featured on all promotional items, from motel signs to, yes, matchbooks.
Unlike other motel chains that built on the outskirts of town and featured full amenities such as pools, restaurants, and lounges to lure travelers off the freeway, TraveLodge had in-town or even downtown locations, where a traveler would have a range of restaurants and lounges nearby to choose from. Comfort and convenience were key, along with cleanliness, friendliness, and courtesy. Simmon's "Beauty Rest" mattresses ensured the "Best Rest...East or West".
Over the years, Sleepy Bear became less prominent and disappeared from signs as logos and even Sleepy Bear was redesigned- to be fluffier (more Teddy Bear-like) and ready to rest in his blue nightshirt and nightcap. More recently, Sleepy has been featured in character-themed rooms for kids called Sleepy Bear Dens, with bedspreads, curtains, even lampshades featuring the drowsy bear.
By 2006. Travelodge became part of the Wyndham Hotel Group, which now owns other iconic motels chains such as Howard Johnson's and Ramada. World-wide, there are currently over 4000 Travelodge motels. As for Sleepy Bear, he still checks into Travelodge, but is considerably more alert-looking these days- because he finally gets that good night's sleep he's needed!
Notes: This TraveLodge matchbook dates to the early 1960's.
The Kansas City Travelodge stood for many years at 10th & Cherry. Before the motel's recent demolition, it operated as the Cherry Street Inn. The only Travelodge in Kansas City is actually located in Platte City, near the airport.
