Granville Medley, Hopkinsville and Gracey, KY
Granville patented an automatic fly reel and the free-spool mechanism for a casting reel. The automatic fly reel was truly a innovative design. The patents for this reel were granted in 1892 and 1895 while Medley lived in Hopkinsville, KY. Medley's 20th Century Kentucky included his 1901 free-spool patent. The name implies he's bringing the classic kentucky reel into the next century. The 1901 patent was subsequently acquired by B.F. Meek & Sons. The "Free-Spool" feature and marking can be seen on a B.F. Meek & Sons No. 3 and Horton Mfg. Co. Meek No.'s 3 and 4. A letter written in 1945 by Mrs. Ora Medley to the owner of the reel below gives insight into Granville's life. The letter can be seen at the bottom of this page.
The MEDLEY'S 20th CENTURY KENTUCKY REEL, circa 1902
The Medley Reel Co. Catalog, circa 1895
Outing Magazine, Dr. Henshall's Evolution of the Kentucky Reel, Dec. 1900
Forrest and Stream Magazine, Interview with J. L. Sage, Jan. 1915
Forrest and Stream Magazine, Dr. Henshall's More About The Kentucky Reel, Feb. 1915