Stockford Reel Co reels were only made for a few years. William F. Stockford received a patent for his “Open Spool” fishing reel on November 15, 1910. In September, 1911 the Stockford Reel & Novelty Company was incorporated in South Bend, IN to manufacture fishing tackle and other articles. The Stockford reel has no cross member between the end plates which allows easier access to the fishing line for casting and backlash removal. An ad in the 1913 edition of the Field & Stream magazine shows The Stockford Reel Company in Chicago, IL. Stockford reel co reels are consider to be one of the great early reels made in the USA.
The STOCKFORD REEL COMPANY Reel, circa 1911
The STOCKFORD REEL COMPANY Ad in 1913 “Field & Stream” Magazine
The WILLIAM F. STOCKFORD Nov. 15, 1910 Patent