A. Hendrick & Star Reel Works Rare Multiplying Raised Pillar Arrowhead Shape Click & Drag Birmingham, CT Circa-1889

A. Hendrick & Star Reel Works Rare Multiplying Raised Pillar Arrowhead Shape Click & Drag Birmingham, CT Circa-1889. Augustus D. Hendrick was born in Forestville, CT in 1832. He worked for the New Haven Clock Company for over 30 years. The city directories list him as a “clock maker” through 1883. In 1884, Hendrick began a fishing tackle business with Henry Whiting. It didn’t last long and the partnership was dissolved in 1885 and the business became Hendrick Brothers. This partnership was also dissolved in 1886. He later entered a business arrangement with Isaac Booth in Birmingham, CT. to form The Star Reel Works in 1889. This is a extremely rare and fine early raised pillar gem of a reel that comes from one of greatest early makers. Like a majority of his reels this reel comes unmarked and in fine nickel over brass, this finish shows some brass coming through but is still amazing for 135 years old. The unigue Hendrick designed clicker & brake buttons in the arrowhead shape (See last photo) engage or disengage and function perfectly. The amazing S-shape counter balanced handle with hard rubber handle knob with three circumferential grooves and a machined one piece Hendrick patented reel foot tells you easily that this is a fine Hendrick example. This extremely rare reel spins amazing, fast, smooth, and straight. Fantastic and Historic reel never seen from a great early New England reel maker.