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In 1986 TY Warner starts his own toy company, TY, Inc. Previous toy experience was gained when Mr. Warner worked as a salesman for Dakin Inc, another manufacturer of plush toys. Soon after starting TY introduced his first line of four plush Himalayan Cats. The cat's names were Smokey, Ginger, Peaches, and Angel. Even then TY was known for its excellent quality, as well as affordaility!

Seven years later in 1993, at the World Toy Fair in New York City, TY introduced 9 Beanie Babies, what we affectionately call the original 9! They were Brownie (later renamed Cubbie), Chocolate, Flash, Legs, Patti, Pinchers, Splash, Spot, and Squealer.

It wasn't until mid 1994 when beanies started popping up in small gift shops in Chicago and surrounding areas! It wasnt only the original 9 that were showing up though , more than 3 dozen more were entering the scene! Some of these were the Old Faced Teddies in six colors, Mystic the Unicorn (fine mane), Humphrey and Peking!

In 1995, Retailers outside of Chicago were finally able to order, and sell beanies. However these stores were still pretty much in Midwest America. During this year it was the 3rd generation tag that reached the marketplace.

1996--- Ty launches its own website! 4 line poems begin appearing in 4th generation hang tags. The first Beanie baby exclusively in Canada is launched, Maple! Annual sales of Beanie Babies reportedly top $250 million dollars, and Playthings Magaxine names Beanie Babies, the "biggest toy of the year."

In 1997 McDonalds & TY Team up for what was McDonald's Largest Happy Meal Promotion ever! McDonalds gave away nearly 100 million Teenie Beanies! Pinky, Lizz, Quacks, Seamore, Chocolate, Snort, Goldie, Speedy, Chops, and Patti! In this year Ty, Inc sponsors its first Major league sports promotion with the Chicago Cubs. They give away 10,000 Cubbies! The Beanie Craze is in full swing!

The present... 1998 all sorts of things are happening out in the beanie world! A second McDonalds promotion this time giving away 250 Million Teenie Beanies! More beanies introduced, more retired... more commemorative beanies, well what I am trying to say is... 1998 isn't finished yet, who know what will happen by the time its over!!