Horton Mfg Co Reels - Bristol, CT -

Horton Mfg Co reels were made starting in 1916. However, much earlier on March 8, 1887, Everett Horton received a patent for a hollow, telescoping metal rod. This was the beginning of the Horton Mfg. Co. It was known for it’s line of Bristol, Rainbow and Luckie metal rods and Kingfish Brand fishing line. In 1904, they also offered the Seely Edsall’s patent combination reel and handle.

In 1916, Horton Mfg. Co. 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 high quality reels in the Meek tradition up until late 1940’s. Meek reels were the top of the line and marked with large letters to highlight the name. The Blue Grass line was the mid-grade and Simplex was their economy grade of reels. In addition to the Meek and Blue Grass line of reels, Horton introduced the less expensive Bristol line of bait casting and fly reels. Also available at the time was the Meek No. 55 fly reel. It was a quality reel that was available with an agate line guide. The business closed in 1952. Horton Mfg Co is considered one of the great reel makers in the New England states area.