The Hastings Reel by C.W. Parker was patented on May 16, 1899 and sold in 1904 and 1905. The reel was made by C.W. Parker in Rockford, IL The reel has a free spool mechanism that is actuated by depressing the top pillar by the thumb. Pressing down on the pillar separates the drive gear from the spool pinion gear. Removing the thumb re-engages the gears.
THE HASTING FREE RUNNING REEL
HASTINGS Reel Ad in the May, 1905 Outdoor Life Magazine