The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

I am hoping that someone may be able to suggest the provenance of a rod I have acquired.

It is a two piece rod of equal sections each measuring 61.1/2". The butt measures 28" and on the butt brasswork is inscribed the words J OGDEN, MAKER, CHELTENHAM. The rod has no other identifying marks. The butt section has only one lined ring and the top section is comprised of five rings. It is whipped in burgundy thread, which, judging by the condition of the cork is original.

In action and performance the rod resembles nothing so much as a MkIV and is a real pleasure to handle.

James Ogden was a Cheltenham rod maker of some repute who passed away in 1897. My understanding is that his daughter married a Mr Smith and they moved to London setting up in business as Ogden Smith Rodmakers. I suspect that my rod dates from the 1960's at a pinch perhaps the 50's. If anyone has any idea's or suggestions i would be pleased to hear them. Here are some photographs which may be of help.

I think it might be earlier having brass parts on it. If you look here you will see the firm had later started using transfers and they show the start date as 1763..is that even possible???

viewtopic.php?f=314&t=13461

Good rods, fine reputation.

Nobby wrote:I think it might be earlier having brass parts on it. If you look here you will see the firm had later started using transfers and they show the start date as 1763..is that even possible???

viewtopic.php?f=314&t=13461

Good rods, fine reputation.

My own suspicion was that it is an Ogden Smith rod but they were still using old parts from James Ogdens days. There does not seem to be as much information about regarding Ogden and Ogden Smith rods as there is on other makes. At the end of the day I suppose it does not matter overmuch apart from satisfying my curiosity.

Nice rod TOB

Nobby wrote:I think it might be earlier having brass parts on it. If you look here you will see the firm had later started using transfers and they show the start date as 1763..is that even possible???

viewtopic.php?f=314&t=13461

Good rods, fine reputation.

Having read through some chapters of L.A Parker's 'This Fishing' today he stated that anglers were using Sowerbutts roach poles for over 150 years. Taking into account the release date of the book (1948) I think it could be possible that Ogden Smith started business that early, too.

Old Buffer that's an Ogden Smith spinning Rod James Ogden before the Smith made a sublime Roach/Match rod called the Chelt a good one is very rare and collectable. I have a number of Ogden Smith rods and the quality is superb as is your rod. I have an unamed wooden handle Ogden Smith Avon which eminated in Cheltenham and I suspect the original builder was James.
Hope this helps.
Bumble

Bumble wrote:Old Buffer that's an Ogden Smith spinning Rod James Ogden before the Smith made a sublime Roach/Match rod called the Chelt a good one is very rare and collectable. I have a number of Ogden Smith rods and the quality is superb as is your rod. I have an unamed wooden handle Ogden Smith Avon which eminated in Cheltenham and I suspect the original builder was James.
Hope this helps.
Bumble

Yes thank you very much that makes a lot of sense.