the company

Question
i am sorry to bother u but i am looking into some family history and recently found a white circular plastic id tag with my grandmothers picture and a number 720  it has the name horrocks-ibbotson co. on it so i am wondering what was this company and where was it located any info would help just never knew of this.  my grandmother died probably 4o years ago and my mom also has since past which is how i came to find this . please  let me know if it was in the utica ny area  and where and what year if at all posible.

                your response will be greatly appreciated
                       i thank you
                    alicia mander  ( mitchell)

Answer
Alicia ,
AN interesting question and never a bother.

Horrocks-Ibbotson was one of America's largest production rod companies for many years, competing head to head with Montague and South Bend. This company that came to be known as the World's Largest Manufacturer of Fishing Tackle traces its history to 1812 but did not become involved with fishing tackle until 1863 when an English immigrant named James Horrocks was hired as a clerk. In 1894, Edward Ibbotson was hired as an errand boy. Gradually the company acquired existing tackle companies. In 1905 the company built a new factory in Utica, New York and continued to grow until it was known throughout the world. The firm was incorporated in 1909 as the Horrocks-Ibbotson Co.  They shut down in the 50s.
The number 720 is not associated with bamboo fly rods, H-I used names. Could be July 20 .
Can you send me a picture of the tag - [email protected] - might help.
Did your grandmother fish ? What is she doing in the picture - perhaps she worked for H-I.
Luck,
Mac

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