Edwards Bristol rod

Question
Good afternoon Rich, my questions is this. I have had this pole for about 13 years it was in another house I owned in the bay area. Im just now going through my stuff and really looked at it. its a Edwards Bristol rod, its 2 pieces. The writing at the base of the rod says in cursive and yellow ink Edwards Bristol La 21 - 7 1/2 . Im assuming its 7 1/2 feet tall but the la 21 I cant seem to find that anywhere on the Internet. the base handle  on the screw ring that holds the reel also has a patent date of 4-13-37. can you help me. Thanks Ralph

Answer
Ralph,
Here's some history about Edwards and Bristol:
The history of the Edwards family and their rods is often confusing because it involved some many different aspects at different times. In 1919 Eustis sold his young company to Winchester Repeating Arms, moved his operation to New Haven, Connecticut, and made rods exclusively for that company for five years; some years later he had a similar lease arrangement with Bristol Rod Co. Eustis had two sons, W. E. "Bill" and Leon, both of whom became involved in rod making prior to the formation of the E. W. Edwards & Sons Rod Co. shortly after the Winchester years. After Eustis died in 1931, his sons continued to make rods under the Bristol name. Eventually, discontent with the Bristol operation, Bill went out on his own and formed the W. E. Edwards & Son Rod Co. where he developed his new four-strip rod technology that became famous as the Edwards Quadrate; Gene also went out on his own and formed the Eugene Edwards Rod. Co., but he continued building the traditional 6-strip bamboo rods. Both of these companies also ceased operations during the 1950 era and were purchased by Clarence "Sam" Carlson.

Horton Mfg. Co. was known for it's line of Bristol metal rods and Kingfish Brand fishing line. In 1916, they bought the B.F. Meek & Sons fishing reel business and name. They moved the manufacture from Louisville, KY to Bristol, CT. Horton continued to make a high quality reels in the Meek tradition up until late 1940's. Meek reels were the top of the line. The Bluegrass line was the mid-grade and Simplex was their economy grade. In addition to the Meek and Bluegrass line of reels, Horton introduced the less expensive Bristol line of bait casting and fly reels.

Price Book:
Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.
Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook by Michael Sinclair  

More history and vintage rod ads in Classic & Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors & Anglers by A.J. Campbell . There is a limited view at google books.

The better Edwards Bristol rods had models with an F. The la21 is a model name, of poorer quality not made by Edwards but Bristol.

I would not assume length 7 1/2 foot, I highly recommend you measure it.  Also is this a fly rod or otherwise , where is the handle above or below the reel seat?

Homel does not mention your model. I'd love to have picture of the rod , especially details of ferrules (connectors) and labels. I might change my mind and say your rod is very valuable. e-mail [email protected]

Luck,
Mac
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