Historical information

This fishing reel belonged to Arthur Smith (1874- 1955). About 1908 he was employed by the Western District Co-Operative at the corner of Raglan Parade and Kepler Street as a field representative. In this capacity he became one of the earliest motorists in Warrnambool. In 1928 he took on a similar job with Saltau and Son in Kepler Street.

Significance

This fishing reel is of some interest as it belonged to Arthur Smith who was a resident of Warrnambool for many years. His son, Reg, was a Life Member of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society. Fishing was and is a popular pastime for many Warrnambool residents.

Physical description

This is a wooden fishing reel with a metal holder and screw and a bakelite turning handle and a gut line. The wood and the gut are painted a dark red. There is some rust in the metal.