Winston / Howells - 8'9" 2/2 (4 3/4oz) 7-8wt Bamboo Rod

For sale here is a special Winston 8'9" 2/2 8wt bamboo rod. Made in 1951 for Gary Howells, prior to his working at the Winston shop in San Francisco. Gary would have been 18 years old when this rod was made, and the butt script reads "Gary H. Howells - 8'9" 4 3/4oz #7395". The R.L. Winston name isn't on the rod, but this serial number is in the Winston ledger as made for Howells. The rod features lightly tempered cane with putty colored wraps and oxblood accents. Ferrules fit perfectly and the sections are straight & full length. 6" grip is soiled with light ridging, and the rod is fitted with the standard down-locking Winston reel seat over Bakelite spacer. Actual weight is 5.08oz. A strong 8wt with almost semi-parabolic character. Rated as a DT7/WF8 by Winston, but I think it's best with a DT8. The script is unusual, as is the lack of serial numbers on the tips. It's reasonable to conclude that Gary Howells bought the rod in 1951 about 6 years prior to his employment at Winston and later restored the rod while working in the Winston shop. Overall, the rod is in fine condition with a few scratches/scuffs from honest use. A special piece of Winston & Howells history, sold in the original tube with Bakelite cap and what looks like a 1960's bright red Winston rod bag.