We all know there's been a lot of debate as of late regarding Ustonson reels, one in particular. These three link's however, aren't strictly about their reels. They recount another side of Ustonson family life, albeit an unwanted one. All in all, it's some pretty interesting stuff.
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Edit -- I dug up one more Ustonson related trial. I'm fascinated by these records, they show elusive tidbits of tackle history that you just can't find anywhere else. It's amazing the amount of risk thieves were willing to take back then given the very heavy handedness of the law. The judicial system didn't mess around, and sentencing for the guilty certainly wasn't a slap on the wrist like they'd receive today. It also proves the worth and desperate need of early reels.
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This ones not Ustonson related, but intriguing nonetheless. Be sure to read Henry Hitchingman's testimony about his reel manufacturing technique.
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Updates --
1767 Bamboo/Hazel rod!
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1784...7000 stolen fish hooks, Wow!
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David
