The Frankfort Kentucky Reel
Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky
Marker Inscription
The Frankfort Kentucky Reel. In the early 1800s, fishing for bass was an important source of food and recreation in central Kentucky. Demand for an effective baitcasting reel led Jonathan and Benjamin Meek, originally watchmakers and silversmiths, to cut precision parts and perfect the quadruple multiplying reel. In 1839, Benjamin Milam became an apprentice at the Frankfort business. In 1853, Ben Meek and B.C. Milam began stamping the reels “Meek & Milam.” Meek left the business in 1898, and B.C. Milam continued working with his son, John. From 1896-1903, B.C. Milam and Son reels were known as “The Frankfort Kentucky Reel.” These highly valued reels, used by dignitaries and serious anglers around the world, were all made here at 222 W. Main St. Dedicated June 9, 2017.
Erected by Kentucky Historical Society
The Story
In the early 1800s, demand for a better baitcasting reel led Frankfort watchmakers and silversmiths Jonathan and Benjamin Meek to apply their precision craft to fishing tackle, perfecting the quadruple multiplying reel. Benjamin Milam joined as an apprentice in 1839, and by 1853 the partnership stamped its reels "Meek & Milam." From 1896 to 1903 the firm's celebrated "Frankfort Kentucky Reel," prized by anglers and dignitaries worldwide, was made at 222 West Main Street.
Why it matters
The Kentucky reel is a landmark of American mechanical ingenuity, where watchmaking precision transformed a common tool into a globally admired invention.
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Related people
- · Jonathan Meek
- · Benjamin Meek
- · Benjamin Milam
Themes & tags
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