The B. F. Nichols Rod

Question

BF Nichols rod   I have a fly rod with the following inscription on the handle:  "The B.F. Nichols"; H.C. Litchfield & Co., Makers, Boston Mass.  It is a four piece rod with a wooden holder that has individual sections for each part of the rod.  The line guides swivel so that they do not stand out from the holder.  It is in fabulous shape I have not been able to find out much about it. Any information you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Jim,

Benjamin Nichols began his career as a rod builder about 1880 making bamboo rods in various configurations.  Like most builders of the day, after a couple of years of experimenting he settled on the six strip bamboo models, typically with rattan grips.

He moved locations in 1888 to join forces with Henry C. Litchfield for what appears to be a period of about 3-4 years.  Rods made by Nichols during this period were labeled "The B.F. Nichols; H.C. Litchfield &Co.. Makers, Boston, Mass"...which is what you have.

You are correct, it appears to be in remarkable condition for being 120+ years old.  Nichols rods marked this way are rare.

I do not have reliable data as to value estimate for this rod, but would guess it to be valued in the $800-$1200 range.  I think your best bet would be to find an experienced appraiser of antique fishing gear close to you and go for an appraisal in person.  Do some investigating and locate someone who deals in this sort of item regularly.  I probably would not let the rod out of my sight.

Hope this helps.   Joe