toodles,
First of all, welcome to FAOL. It's simply the best flyfishing website around. For more info on the history of bamboo rods, you might want to join the "Chatroom" tonight between 6-8 PM Pacific Daylight Time. It will be hosted by the best of all bamboo rodmakers; Ron Kusse. He will most likely be happy to advise you in the areas of your interest.
God Bless,