Mermaid Works

Once upon a time in Arcadia, most probably on a Thursday between-the-wars Ogden Smiths Fishing Tackle opened their 'model factory specially built for making High-Class Fishing Tackle' in the district of London Subtopia known as Croydon.  It was named Mermaid Works and supplied each of Ogden Smiths Tackle Shops across the metropolis.  Tackle dealers were encouraged to 'Consult the work's manager for anything special in the way of fishing tackle'.

Sadly, in the year of Arcadia 2012, Mermaid Works is no longer producing High Class Fishing Tackle, nor fishing tackle of any description as it has long since closed down along with the many Ogden Smiths shops which used to cheer the capital through life.  However, you may visit me at my stall on at Spitalfields Antiques Market where between the hours of eight in the morning and three in the afternoon on Thursdays only I sell Vintage Fishing Tackle for the Soul, some of which was made in Mermaid Works.  You may also consult me for anything special in the way of fishing tackle that you may require.  Thank-you.

Under the Counter, Madam!

If you go to the far corner of my website labelled 'Under the Counter, Madam', you will discover an outbreak of game and fishing bags by Brady Brothers of Halesowen, Lightwood of Banbury and Liddesdale of Newcastleton.   For directions to this dust filled room click here.

Kempton

The first Kempton of the autumn and winter to open in the dark and before the sun was up I chanced upon this Huntley & Palmers Biscuit Tin in the form of a suitcase dating back to the years known as Those Before the Great War.  It had not been labelled by its owner and the biscuits it once contained had long been scoffed but it is safe to assume that it once served proudly in a kitchen or larder in Arcadia.

On the Counter, Madam!

Abu in Arcadia, an overdue celebration of fishing tackle shop display materials made from paper, cardboard and plastics continues in the Just in, Sir! wing of my website.

Ivory Majesties Uptown

On Friday a bicycle courier arrived to return the White Teeth belonging to a 1926 mahseer which I had been asked to exhibit as part of a night to celebrate Singleton Whisky, a malt from the Black Isle.  This photograph shows the teeth, box framed and in situ in a room some may recognise.

Dogs in Pubs

Earlier this week I lost a lunchtime in the joyous confines of The Southampton.  The company was excellent and was improved only by the arrival of Fred the resident pub dog who promptly fell asleep at my feet. The incident was reported on the pages of the glorious Dogs in Pubs.

Token

Redeemable at my stall on Thursdays only, in exchange for discount on Vintage Fishing Tackle for the Soul, original Spitalfields Market Tokens.