ibbotson fly rod

Question
I have an Ibbotson cane fly rod, excellent condition, with the original canvas case and paper label. It is a beaverkill model, 8 1/2 foot rod. It has three sections, HI logo in a diamond, and says Genuine tonkin cane above the logo. All the ferrules are in the originzl red wrap. 3 questions...is it OK to fish with it, what would you guess to be the appx age and appx value. I would like to use it, but don't want to damage it. Thanks for your time,
Doug

Answer
Doug,
If it is in fishable condition , yes fish it. Keep it dry . If the finish or threads are coming off , get it restored and it should last 25 years if you keep it dry and in a sturdy case.
Age: Horrocks-Ibbotson first made the Beaverkill model in the 30s . Then it was it's #2 quality rod selling for $5.75. They continued through the 50s  with the Beaverkill slowly moving down the list. The 50s model was the lowest priced model selling for $11.
Value - depends on the age but anyway it is not thousands or even hundreds.
They are looked down upon by the collecting community and often they are justified. They were mass produced , rather heavy and very slow. They are not going to resale for very much.
I find two books are available at larger libraries to get history and or value:
Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997
Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook -Michael Sinclair
Good Luck
Mac