1925–1968: Gund and J. Swedlin

During the early years of the company, Adolph Gund (German immigrant) was the mentor to Jacob Swedlin, a Russian immigrant who came to the United States in 1907.  Gund taught Swedlin to become a cutter and pattern maker, teaching him the ins and outs of the company. When Gund retired in 1925, he sold the company to Swedlin for $1,500.  Swedlin brought his brothers Abe and John on board with the company, which began rapid expansion.  Some of the most notable Gund products in the 1930s included its line of Easter Bunnies which continue to be one of its most popular products.