My camera is on the blink so I can’t post a pic but wondered if I could give some kind of a description and maybe someone might know a little background about an old reel that seems in pretty good condition - functions and not all that bad looking.
The reel is exactly 3 1/2" across and 1" wide. Looks to be 100% aluminum. On the back it has the Shakespeare logo (made in Kalamazoo), then says “RUSSELL” and below that 1895. Then down further yet it says “Model GE”.
Found this on the web; below is a link to the entire Shakespeare history.
“Three single-action trout reels were available in the early 1920’s, The Winner, The Featherweight, and The Kazoo. All three were Shakespeare’s versions of the earlier Meisselbach reels, simplified for mass production methods. The same was true for the Russell single action fly reel which was introduced in 1926. It was designed by Shakespeare’s chief reel designer and engineer Samuel Guy Russell, who had previously patented the new method of riveting the reel foot in 1920, although many features of the Russell reel were taken from Mr. Shakespeare’s personal “St. George” reel made by the famous Hardy Brothers in England, which was purchased as the model for the purpose of duplicating.”
P.S ~ thanks for the info … a very informative website!
This reel has been in storage for “a time” as it is in good condition. A few scuffs here and there but nothing serious. And it works surprisingly well. After awhile I might post it on ebay, along with a box other assorted reels that are no longer used, and start a much needed house cleaning!