South Bend Model 20

Question
Joe, I picked up a 9' three section (plus extra tip) bamboo rod that has the South Bend logo etc stamped on the metal reel seat and has 20 - 9' written in white just above the handle.  Rod is in excellent shape.  I'm really most interested in any history you might be able to provide about this rod and a stab at the date of manufacture if possible.  The little information I have been able to find indicates that this rod may have been manufactured shortly after South Bend acquired Cross and before South Bend really had a facility to produce bamboo rods.  Any and all information greatly appreciated..thank you in advance.


Answer
Hi Brian,

I think you are on the right track.  Paraphrasing the A.J. Campbell book on Classic & Antique Fly Fishing Tackle...In 1919 the Eustis William Edwards rod company in Brewer, Maine, was purchased by Winchester.  E.W. was convinced to relocate to New Haven, Conn, and oversee the rod building.  During the early 1920s Winchester built a number of rods for the new rod company...South Bend.  These were their better grade rods.  After five years E.W. left Winchester to go back into business with his son, Gene.  The rod quality at South bend dropped dramatically when E. W. left Winchester.

In 1926 South Bend acquired Cross and the services of Wes Jordan and started making their own rods.

I would guess that your rod is one of the early 1920s South Bend rods built by E.W. Edwards.  If so, it will be considerably more valuable than the typical South Bend rod.  

I know that the later Edwards operation used white ink (writing in the direction opposite that used by H-I) but I don't know for certain that they used it in earlier operations.  I would assume so as once we rod builders adopt a practice, we tend to stick with it.

You might want to get a copy of Campbell's book and really compare the timelines and history included for these companies and E.W. Edwards.   You probably should find someone in your area who can verify the history of the rod and its maker.  Look for an appraiser with experience in evaluating antique fishing rods and a familiarity with the history of the industry.

I do have one older reference list that includes the model 20 for South Bend.  I don't think their value estimates are useful, but the model is recognized.

Hope this helps.  Joe