The first fly tying
tools that I purchased were from the Herter's Inc., 1965 Catalog. For the younger
generation out there Herter's was the premium mail order sporting goods in the
world and was the precursor to Cabela's and many others. They were originally based
in Waseca, Minnesota and were in business from 1893 until 1981. Their mail
order business was started in 1937.
I still have and use some of their tools.
George
Herter invented many of the tools that were of the convenience variety along with many other items that Herter's offered for sale.
The amazing thing was they were well thought out, worked great and were inexpensive.
Here is an example, can you figure out what this fly tying
tool is? This tool is in my copy of the 1972 catalog but disappeared from my copy of the 1978 catalog. Those two are the only catalogs that I still have. I still occasionally use this tool when my fingers are not working correctly and frustration has set in.
The answer will be in my next blog entry!
The Waseca County Historical Society, Waseca MN-Home of Herter's Inc.is hosting a series of first time ever Herter's events.
ReplyDeleteAugust 22 & 23 2014. "Collecting Herter's" exhibit, Herter's Swap Meet, Craft Beer Fest and 60's Rockin Roll Review.
For ticket information and table rental info for swap meet call Joan or Sheila (507)835-7700 or check our website www.historical.waseca.mn.us. Plans are underway! Call early if you want a spot in the Swap Meet.