Help Identifying Bamboo Rod

[JEJB]

A friend of mine was cleaning out his house and found an old bamboo fly rod.

It is a 9 foot, 3-piece rod marked "Crawford Manufacturing" 1943. I've searched the Internet but can't find anything on a company of this name building fly rods.

Anyone familiar with this name? I can't imagine the rod is worth anything but I'd like to know something about who built it.

[bobbyg]

Most probably a trade rod.

Will need to see pictures and more specifics as to the rod.

[JEJB]

I'll see what I can find out. I haven't seen the rod myself yet, merely got the call/question.

[kbproctor]

Well, we know from the date it is not Japanese rod.

[randyflycaster]

You can probably get help here:
http://clarksclassicflyrodforum.yuku...-Manufacturers

[maodiver]

Well, we know from the date it is not Japanese rod.

And that there is the understatement of the day...LOL

[kbproctor]

It would be interesting to find out where the bamboo came from in that rod. I'm drawing a blank.

[bobbyg]

It would be interesting to find out where the bamboo came from in that rod. I'm drawing a blank.

I'm most interested also, as I too have never heard of a Crawford bamboo rod.

Looking forward to pictures if they are forthcoming?
Could be a gem or a piece of the proverbial you know what.

[kbproctor]

The question came to mind because Tonkin Cane comes from China and most, if not all, of eastern China was under Japanese occupation for several years prior to 1943. I do not know how much trade was going on with Japan in the years just prior to Pearl Harbor. Political relations were strained to say the least.

There would have had to be either a substantial order just prior to trade relations going to pot or another source for cane.

[JEJB]

I'll try to get photos posted this week. Apparently there is some small writing or engraving on the rod which may hepl. Got to dig out the old magnifier and see what I uncover.

Thanks for the help.....