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Web Site Updates
Contact Us
(Saturday, 22 September 2012) Written by Gabriel
Hello & thanks for contacting the Mitchell Reel Museum website with your question. Unfortunately we do not have staff that can help right now. For this reason we have the Mitchell Mates discussion group located at: http://www.mitchellreels.net/forum/ If you're serious about wanting to know an answer to your question; please take a couple minutes to register with our group and ask your question there. As you will see, we have many highly knowledgeable people who are always happy to help. Thanks for your understanding. Best Regards, Support Team
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About Us Updates
(Monday, 28 March 2011) Written by Wallace
Roy Allett and Barrie Welham have graciously accepted our invitation to join our team. As a friend of both, I am proud to know these men and welcome them with open arms. I also want to thank them for all their hard work, sharing and giving they have done to help make this website what it is today!   Please Click Here to go to the About Us page.   Respectfully submitted, Wallace Carney
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Another Garcia Mitchell 396 Added to Gallery
(Monday, 21 March 2011) Written by Wallace
Please Click Here to see another Garcia Mitchell 396 just added to our photo Gallery with serial number E099104. Busy but I'm trying   PS: Please Click Here to see a Garcia Mitchell 396 PUM with serial number E149105 just added as well.
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Mitchell 386 1st Version Added to Gallery
(Monday, 21 March 2011) Written by Wallace
Nope, I'm still here just been doing too much but; a Garcia Mitchell 386 1st Version was just added to our Gallery. Click Here to view and enjoy.
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Mitchell 302N Photograph Gallery Update
(Saturday, 27 November 2010) Written by Wallace
Please Click Here to see a very nice Garcia Mitchell 302N just added to our museum.   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 204 Gallery Update
(Thursday, 18 November 2010) Written by Wallace
The Mitchell 204 Photograph Gallery has been updated to include the Mitchell Sports 204S.   Thanks to Wayne   Please Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Site Updates, Update
(Saturday, 13 November 2010) Written by Wallace
Hello all, I've been adding a lot to our site including the 300C/301C Image Gallery as well as its Schematics and Advertisements. Hope you enjoy.   Cheers! Wallace
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Quick Update Note
(Tuesday, 12 October 2010) Written by Wallace
I have been making many changes to our website in an attempt to make it easier to browse. I've also updated the Garcia Tackle Catalog gallery adding the 1953, a 1953 suppliment and a 1955 catalog. Click Here to see these updates. Best Regards to All, Wallace
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Browning List Gallery Updated
(Monday, 16 August 2010) Written by Wallace
The Browning - Mitchell fishing reel list in their gallery has been updated to include 2 more lists of reels being sold in America in 1982/83. It's confusing but correct as you can see by Clicking Here .   All the best, Wallace Carney
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I'm Still Here!!!
(Saturday, 07 August 2010) Written by Wallace
Sorry for the lack of update news but MANY changes and additions have been done over the last few months. I have just reorganized the main GALLERY to make it easier to find what you're looking for, I hope. The MITCHELL REEL ADVERTISEMENTS now have Browning ads and a lot more ads from the 1980s will be added soon!   I have also added links to the MITCHELL REEL PHOTOGRAPHS (MOST COMMON) to help people with Mitchell reels without model numbers engraved such as the Mitchell, Salt Water, Rapid and Otomatic locate them. Numerous images have been added to this gallery including the MITCHELL 330 / 331 PHOTOGRAPHS but the text study is still being finalized. Most of the other auto-bails have been added as well as the 308 and 408 series reels.   I will start posting updates again as I do them so we all can keep up with what has been done...   Best Regards, Wallace Carney    
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Mitchell 406 / 407 Gallery Updated
(Wednesday, 28 April 2010) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see our Vintage Reel Gallery for the Mitchell 406 / 407 updates.   Regards, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 314 / 315 C.A.P Gallery Updated
(Tuesday, 27 April 2010) Written by Wallace
The Mitchell 314 / 315 C.A.P Gallery has been updated with a Mint in Box 315 complete.   Click Here to see this new addition   Regards, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 410/411 Gallery Updated
(Tuesday, 20 April 2010) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see the updates to this gallery including the Mitchell 410 Special from 1971.   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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330 / 331 Gallery Updated
(Saturday, 20 March 2010) Written by Wallace
Please Click Here to see the tremendous updates including a seldom seen Mitchell Otomatic ( 330 ) 1st, 2nd and 3rd version. I am still building this gallery, text to follow ASAP, but thought you might want to see these.   Regards, Wallace Carney
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The Mitchell 302 / 303 Gallery Has Been Updated
(Tuesday, 16 March 2010) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see the Mitchell 302 / 303 Salt Water Gallery updates.   Regards to all, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 408 S Added to Gallery
(Wednesday, 03 March 2010) Written by Wallace
A Mitchell 408 S has been added to Photograph Gallery you can see by Clicking Here .   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Vintage Mitchell 408 Reel Gallery Update
(Monday, 01 March 2010) Written by Wallace
Our Mitchell 408 / 409 series images have been updated as you can see by Clicking Here ...   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 396 Gallery Updated
(Saturday, 27 February 2010) Written by Wallace
The Mitchell 396 Vintage Reel Photograph Gallery has been updated. Click Here to view this reel and the Mitchell 396 PUM.   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 282 and a 283 Added to Gallery
(Friday, 19 February 2010) Written by Wallace
A Mitchell 282 and a 283 has been added to our vintage Reel Gallery. Click Here for more information.   Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 410A Just Added to our Gallery
(Saturday, 13 February 2010) Written by Wallace
Please Click Here to see an awesome Garcia Mitchell 410A just added to our gallery.   Regards, Wallace Carney
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The Mitchell Green Rapid Prototype Update
(Monday, 08 February 2010) Written by Wallace
The Super Rare Mitchell Reel Gallery has been undated to now include 24 images of the Mitchell Green Rapid Prototype. Enjoy, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 300 PUM Gallery Update
(Monday, 08 February 2010) Written by Wallace
The Mitchell 300 PUM Gallery has been updated now showing the open and closed PUM position. Enjoy, Wallace carney
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A New Mitchell Book and DVD For Sale
(Saturday, 26 December 2009) Written by Wallace
A New Mitchell Book and DVD are available for sale.   Click Here for more information
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Mitchell 204 Gallery Update
(Sunday, 13 December 2009) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see the new 204S in blue thanks to Wayne Fassbender. We are still searching for this reel in red and the last version Mitchell Sports 204S as described in the gallery. Please Contact Me if you have either of these and are willing to send pictures. Thanks, Wallace
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Garcia Mitchell 308 Double Silver Band
(Friday, 04 December 2009) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see the newest version discovered in the Mitchell 308 series...   Enjoy, Wallace
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Gallery Updates
(Thursday, 12 November 2009) Written by Wallace
Click Here for Gallery>> Vintage Reel Photographs to see updates on models:   204 206 208 218 306 486 488 498 756
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The 206 / 207 - 206 S / 207 S Gallery Updated
(Sunday, 01 November 2009) Written by Wallace
See The 206 / 207 - 206 S / 207 S Gallery
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Mitchell 308 / 309 Gallery Update
(Saturday, 31 October 2009) Written by Wallace
Click here to see the updated Mitchell 308 / 309 Gallery . I've updated the text under 1st Versions and added another double red band with white spool SN G337341.
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The Mitchell 306A / 307A Gallery is Open
(Tuesday, 06 October 2009) Written by Wallace
  Click here to see the new Mitchell 306A / 307A Gallery still under construction...
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The Mitchell 306/307 Gallery Updated
(Monday, 05 October 2009) Written by Wallace
  Click here to see The Mitchell 306 / 307 Gallery Updates
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Mitchell 304S Gallery Updated
(Saturday, 03 October 2009) Written by Wallace
Our Mitchell 304S Gallery has been updated.
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We Are Still Here!!!
(Wednesday, 30 September 2009) Written by Wallace
Hello All!   We've not given up but on the contrary; we've been extremely busy behind the scenes. More on that next time...   We just updated our Vintage Reel Galley 314/315 Series . Though not complete, it's a good start.   Best Regards, Wallace Carney Site Administrator      
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Demonstration Movies Added to Website
(Wednesday, 22 April 2009) Written by Wallace
We've obtained 16-mm sound films from the 1950s and 1960s which have been converted to digital video. Click on "The Lost Films" image on the "HOME" page for a very small example.
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Mitchell 308 / 309 Vintage Reel Photograph Gallery update
(Tuesday, 31 March 2009) Written by Wallace
Please see our Mitchell 308 / 309 Vintage Reel Photograph Gallery for an update to the "Mystery Reel" and as always; comments are welcome. Cheers, Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 386 / 387 Gallery is Open
(Saturday, 28 March 2009) Written by Wallace
Our Mitchell 386 / 387 Gallery is open and ready for viewing. Enjoy, comments are always welcome. Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 302 / 303 Gallery Update
(Thursday, 19 March 2009) Written by Wallace
I'm pleased to say the Mitchell 302 / 303 Gallery has finally started. I've completed studies on the first four versions but have just added the first and second. This is more work and time consuming than anyone could imagine especially by myself! Thanks to the "approval" of my findings from a close Mitchell Mate, it has started!   A study has been done on the Mitchell Salt Water which will be part of a free publication when put together in an understandable format. I'll give notice here when it's ready. Enjoy, Wallace Carney   Click Here to go to this gallery
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Mitchell 400 / 401 Vintage Reel Gallery Update
(Tuesday, 17 March 2009) Written by Wallace
The Mitchell 400 / 401 Vintage Reel Gallery has been updated with a seventies and rare eighties reel. Enjoy! Wallace Carney   see: Mitchell 400 / 401 Vintage Reel Gallery    
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308A / 309A Gallery Update
(Monday, 16 March 2009) Written by Wallace
A Garcia Mitchell 308A Series LH model GM309A has been added to our gallery. I was hesident to include this until a good mate helped us out. What he had along with what I found makes this the FIRST VERSION 308A. Thanks Martin! A couple updates were also added to our 308/309 gallery as well. Enjoy, Wallace Carney   Click Here to visit either gallery.
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?Donate? Button Added to Home Page
(Friday, 13 March 2009) Written by Wallace
“Donate” Button Added to Home Page   It is with great regret I’ve had to do this. Because our site appears so professional thanks to Mike Read; the truth is it’s ran by only one man, me. We’re not a large organization as some believe and we’re not sponsored by anyone. Out of all the thousands of images, 99% were taken by me and 100% ofthese were placed on the site by me. All wording was composed and inserted on the site by me.   After three years Mike and I have exhausted funds. Seeing this coming I sold the best of my Mitchell collection to keep going. I then sold everything else I had of value; even my skydiving equipment. I’ve been trying to sell the rest of what I have with poor results so this is it; I’ve turned to begging.   The sad part is the remaining 30% to be done is the best including massive Mitchell historical documents and photographs. This will complete the TRUE Mitchell History and Who’s Who sections. The good news is if we can’t keep going, the site will always remain “as-is” forever thanks again to Mike Read! Our “server” is located and “hosted” in London, England under his control even after death or his 100 th birthday, which ever comes first.   I apologize for this personal aspect but I thought you might want to know. Regards, Wallace Carney  
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308A / 309A Gallery is Open
(Thursday, 12 March 2009) Written by Wallace
Our Mitchell 308A / 309A Gallery is Open but not complete. More will be added as time permits. I've also added a 308 Mystery reel to the 308 / 309 Gallery I hope someone can help us with. Please contact me if you have this reel and can send pictures. Cheers,  Wallace Carney   Click Here to visit either gallery.
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Mitchell 308 Gallery Updated
(Thursday, 05 March 2009) Written by Wallace
More photographs and descriptions have been added to this gallery with more to come. Our job is to preserve the truth and document facts about each reel; our job is not to prove others wrong or just agree with their errors to keep the peace. We get attacked by those who've reported wrong information AND by those who believe we are wrong in our conclusions based only on what they've been told.   We are mainly asked who is right and I will only say judge for yourself. Our proof is always there in many forms including advertisements, schematics, service catalogs and a little common sense.    Although studies will continue probably forever, please see our  308 Vintage Reel Photograph Gallery  for the current information. More to come as time permits, Cheers, Wallace Carney      
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900 Series Photographs Update
(Wednesday, 04 March 2009) Written by Wallace
Please look in our museum's  Vintage Reel Photographs  gallery for additions and updates to the Mitchell 900, 906 and 908 series reels.
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Mitchell Pum Kit Gallery Update
(Wednesday, 04 March 2009) Written by Wallace
Our PUM Kit Gallery has been updated to include the Mitchell (300) Half Bail, the 1st version CAP and finally the 316. PUMs are the most forged Mitchell parts ever by people with aftermarket fakes sold almost daily on eBay. This has made these crooks a few dollars but ruined the value of the authentic ones. For more information see our  Pum Kit Photograph Gallery . Wallace Carney
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Mitchell 316 Added to Gallery
(Monday, 02 March 2009) Written by Wallace
This Mitchell 316 "study" took over 4 years to gather enough to finally show. The 2nd version was purchased by me on October 9, 2004 published as a 1971 model sold in The UK but this one was sold in France. I've gone as far as I'm willing on this model, one of the rarest to gather information on, so all of these will be sold hoping to find someone willing to continue the quest.   This study can be seen under 316 in our  Vintage Reel Photographs  Gallery.   The first three versions have been listed for sale in  The Old Mitchell Reel Store . The 316PUM and an x-rare 316PUM Kit will also be listed soon. Please note all buy-it-now items also have a make-an-offer option. Cheers, Wallace Carney 
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The 400/401 Gallery Has been updated
(Monday, 16 February 2009) Written by Wallace
Our 400/401 series photo gallery has been updated with serial number 5822285 which can be seen in the 400/401 gallery by clicking here:  Vintage Reel Photographs   To Help Support the Website; This reel is for sale as you can see in my  eBay Store  at buy-it-now or make an offer!
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KILT 0 Added to Gallery
(Sunday, 15 February 2009) Written by Wallace
A great example of a Kilt 0 (300 series) has been added you can find by clicking:  Vintage Reel Gallery    
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Garcia Mitchell 300 SIX PACK in Gallery
(Thursday, 12 February 2009) Written by Wallace
A very rare item, never delivered to Garcia or offered for sale until now! This 6-pack case can be seen in our main  Gallery   To Help Support the Website; This case is for sale as you can see in my  eBay Store  at buy-it-now or make an offer!  
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308 Mitchell European 1st Version Added to Gallery
(Thursday, 12 February 2009) Written by Wallace
A vey-rare European Mitchell 308 1st version in a 1st version box has been added you can see in under  Vintage Reel Photographs     To Help Support the Website; This awesome reel is for sale as you can see in my  eBay Store  at buy-it-now or make an offer!
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Mitchell Sports 298 added to Gallery
(Wednesday, 11 February 2009) Written by Wallace
A  Mitchell Sports 298 has been added to our Gallery. Used and rough condition but hard to find! For more information see our  Vintage Reel Gallery 
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Garcia Mitchell 408 2nd Version added to Gallery
(Wednesday, 11 February 2009) Written by Wallace
A Garcia Mitchell 408 2nd Version has been added to our gallery you can see by clicking here: Vintage Reel Gallery
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Garcia Mitchell 208 added to Gallery
(Wednesday, 11 February 2009) Written by Wallace
  A Garcia Mitchell 208 has been added to our reel Gallery Thanks to our friend and Mate, Roy Allett. This reel and others can be seen by Clicking Here  
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Mitchell 200 Series Reels Added
(Tuesday, 13 January 2009) Written by Wallace
Mitchell 200 Series Reels Added   The Mitchell 200 series from the 204 through the 218 models including those with the letter "S" suffix have been added but not complete due to missing photographs. There are more models in the 200 range but never referred to as one of the 200 series by Mitchell. One of these has also been added called the Mitchell 228S, a very rare Mitchell unknown by most. Start looking   Information and pictures (hopfully) on the 282, 288 and 298 will be added soon. Due to the confusion the "S Series" term may cause, each model is shown separately and not grouped together.   I will be making a list of pictures needed for this website. This list will be updated as I learn what ones we don't have and need. As the missing are filled, they will be deleted from this list. More on this later.   Click here to go to the Mitchell Reel Photograph Gallery
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Garcia Catalog Dates Updated
(Friday, 02 January 2009) Written by Wallace
A mistake in the Garcia Tackle Catalog gallery has been corrected that includes; a corrected 1952 "Carr" I was calling 1953 and the corrected 1953 I was calling 1952. You can view these changes by  Clicking Here .    I checked the Garcia advertisement gallery and thank goodness this same mistake was not made there. You can go to this gallery by  Clicking Here  and looking at the 300, 302 and 304 CAP series reels of the time but.....   Always remember most all ads are not conclusive evidence of anything for many reasons including inaccurate artist's renditions, time frames from actual manufacture, through an export company, to another import company, primarily to Garcia, other wholesalers and then finally to the retailers. Also there are crossover advertising between booklets, differences between countries and even within Garcia Annuals vs Tackle Catalogs and many other factors. I show these Annuals, Catalogs and Reel Advertisements mainly for viewing pleasure to those who remember.   I will say the most accurate ads are French, in French for French retailers. This is NOT an exact science but I do the best I can. I'll will make corrections when proven wrong, that's the joy of a website whereas corrections, errors and omissions can not be made in books. Thanks for your understanding, Wallace Carney
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Very Early Mitchell 400 has been found!
(Sunday, 28 December 2008) Written by Wallace
Thanks to Jon Gregg, a very early and interesting Garcia Mitchell 400 has been added to the gallery.   To see this reel;  Click Here   I'm also working on the Mitchell 200 series reel gallery and will advise when complete.   Enjoy, Wallace Carney 
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Back to The Reel Gallery!
(Sunday, 28 December 2008) Written by Wallace
Back to The Reel Gallery! We're starting back on the Reel Gallery pictures and other improvements. The 204 series was just added.   To view our progress;  Click Here .
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Mitchell 304 1962 SN Correction
(Friday, 26 December 2008) Written by Wallace
Mitchell 304 1962 SN Correction.   I was notified that the 1959 and 1962 (pics 1-6) 304 series reels shown in the gallery had duplicate serial numbers.  I was able to find these and make the correction. The 1962 versions now have correct serial numbers thanks to a man named Jon in an email. If anyone sees a mistake please let me know. I do this alone and contrary to popular belief, I am human. Wallace Carney   Click Here to Review Changes  
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The Mitchell PUM is Added
(Tuesday, 16 December 2008) Written by Wallace
Finally, an original Mitchell 300 series PUM has been added to our gallery. We hope you enjoy this super rare find by  Clicking Here .
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Gallery Update
(Thursday, 11 December 2008) Written by Wallace
Welcome Back!   Yes We Are Still Here!    Our site is constantly growing even if you don't see anything. I've been working on many new Mitchell reel pictures to be added but for now; I'm trying to make the site easier to navigate and find information. Our "Gallery" is just way too big and so deep even I have a hard time finding what I'm looking for!   Under Gallery you'll now see "Mitchell Reel Photographs" which I'll be rearranging and placing pictures in such as Mitchell cutaways under each reel series. I've also turned on all Mitchell reel series even if no pictures have been added yet. I'll advise as each change is made including pictures of an:   ORIGINAL MITCHELL 300 SERIES PUM (MANUAL PICK UP) WILL BE ADDED SOON    
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Glossary Updated
(Sunday, 12 October 2008) Written by Wallace
Thanks to our Mitchell mate JP Gumprich, the glossary was checked and certain ambiguous  herd to understand statements have been clarified. More terms will also be added time permitting. To make it easier on you to find; the major changes are shown below. Thanks JP!   (NOTE: Copy/Paste does not work well in here, words attach, can't fix, glossary is correct!)    BIG GAME REELS: Known as the 1000 series, the first threeissues – 1040 (4/0), 1060 (6/0) and the 1090 (9/0) were offered in a wooddisplay case. These were sold in both European markets and by Garcia starting in the late sixties. In 1977 Mitchell introduced the 1120 (12/0) that was only distributed in Europe. The 1000 series of big game reels were not made tocompete with Penn as some believe, but to compete with the Californian brand also made of anodized aluminium side plates. It is the Mitchell 600 series that was originally designed to compete with Penn. It was later on when Penn cameout with their own series to compete in all metal reels! (Updated October 5th,2008 by JP Gumprich)   CAP: The CAP was originally made exclusively for it’s “inventor - wholesaler" or jobber from Angers, La Canne à Pêche, mostlikely the largest jobber in France at that time. Carpano & Pons at that time had no direct sales responsibility or territory at all for the CAP reelbut did for their own reel referred to then as "The Mitchell", with completely different mechanics and "sexy" looking as well!   Carpano & Pons formed"Mitchell" as a seperate corporation in the mid fifties along with the introduction of their own "round Body" called the Mitchell CAP 54. Thus the soon to be called "Mitchell 304" series was born. Formore information see the Collector’s Gallery. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   GARCIA: Charles Garcia & Company, Inc. (1947 -1955) – The Garcia Corporation (1955 – 1979) - Exclusive distributor ofMitchell for The United States and Canada. Garcia was not originally the Canadian distributor. There was an independent importer working under controlof Ets Impecco Paris. This became bothersome at one stage, and then Garcia tookcontrol of Canada. Garcia became the owner of Mitchell in June 1974 and thensold it back to Carpano & Pons in 1977. Garcia Tackle Ltd was the name usedfor the Impecco subsidiary to distribute Mitchell in the UK. We got license from Garcia to do this. It was not ever a Garcia Europe though, purely British. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   GEARING: The various “qualities” of efficiency in thegearing has been a subject of controversy ever since models other than the Capand 300 were launched. This may seem a little “too much” for the average holiday angler who doesn’t use his equipment with a full knowledge of how to best employ it, but to a confirmed angler and caster the wide spool of the 300– a unique feature – is the key to the success of the reel ( with it’s sexappeal look ) because if one is expert at handling the reel and doesn’t   constantly get his line and lures orbait snarled in the bottom rocks or weeds, then the 300 consistently gavebetter casting distance potential…and that is what an expert angler is lookingfor. Jacquemin then took other routes to design the planamatic, a fairly good substitute.   Cross wind is arelatively poor alternative since the covering over of line spires on the spool doesn’t’ make for the best ease on getting away from the reel. Highlytechnical, I admit, but some anglers in the best qualified markets: GB,Scandinavia, France new the difference. To this knowledgeable group the difference as similar to comparing the casting characteristics of ordinary bamboo rods, and a technical split cane rod… all before plastics and fiberglass of course. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   KINGFISHER: Galion was the original name of this series oflow price reels made at Impecco, France request to begin entrenching against Far Eastern competition. The name was not palatable for the US market so it wascalled Kingfisher. Because of serious mechanical problems with the original versions, name and colour changes were required. Garcia got on this bandwagon fairly late; originally they did not believe there was any need for this seriesreel. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   KIRK ODO: The Odo Manufacturing Plant in France was (believed to be) a subcontractor for Mitchellat a time when plant production capacities were limited and sales began to peakin the fifties. When “jilted” by C & P they decided to do things their ownway and started making their own reel called Kirk-Odo. With only 20,000 units made; Impecco picked up the export/import and Garcia began marketing of thisreel but had the name changed to Kroyden. The reasons behind the names Kirk-Odo and then Kroyden can only be speculative. Though this reel was never part of "Mitchell" it is part of Mitchell's history. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   OTOMATIC:   A derivative of the word Automatic, the first Auto Bailwas the Mitchell Otomatic (no number) first released in 1955. It wasthe predecessor to all future Auto Bails made by Mitchell. At a time when the numerical sequence had not yet been adopted for the growing Mitchell range of reels Carpano & Pons “Mitchell” thought they should find suitable names, and protect then against copiers. Under French patent laws one could notprotect a common dictionary word (automatic) so they chose the derivative wordOtomatic. The name changed in 1957 to Mitchell with Otomatic 330 underneath. In the late sixties the name changed to Mitchell 330 with just Otomatic underneath. Garcia’s version changed these to just Garcia Mitchell 330 in the early sixties which stayed the same throughout their history. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   PLANAMATIC GEARING: A revolution for Mitchell was their Planamatic Gearing for the CAP reel in the early fifties. This gearing combined the best features of both the old Level-Wind and Cross-Wind for maximum line capacity and no line binding and was later used on other Mitchell reels. Patented by Charles Pons as CEO of Carpano and Pons; the original inventor is believed tobe Maurice Jacquemin who still worked for Carpano & Pons in those days. You will see these confusing Patents but under French ownership and patent laws inthose days, if you invented something while employed by a corporation; the CEO or owner of the company was entitled to the patent in his name. (Updated October 5th, 2008 by JP Gumprich)   Footnote: JP has told me several wonderfulstories about his good friend Maurice in confidence. I look forward to hisbook! WWC   PROMATIC: This reel is a combination of a 300 PRO with anAuto-Bail 440A Lighting Cast rotating head from the mid-sixties. There is noProvenance on these reels having ever been made by Mitchell. I do feel there'sa possibility that limited quantities of these reels were made but alwaysbeware of “Frankenstein” reels! (WC Update October 5, 2008) ___________________________________________________________________________  
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Our Museum is Still Growing
(Sunday, 12 October 2008) Written by Wallace
For two months solid; we've been working deep within the website plus documenting new facts and even our glossary. Don't give up on us and we won't give up on you. Great things will be happening soon and placed here as the site is updated. Thanks for your understanding...
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Mitchell 300A Series Added to Gallery
(Tuesday, 12 August 2008) Written by Wallace
With the popularity of the 300 series, I've decided to add the Mitchell 300A/301A reels to our gallery. I tried to mix it up a little showing either the 300A or 301A reels of each version I could find. Please Click Here to view.
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10 Million Gold Medallion Update
(Friday, 08 August 2008) Written by Wallace
After over 40 years; the gold medallion was in a state of decay as well as the silver medallions as you will see. Our first attempt was on the gold with great success and honors to Mr. Mark Davis for all his work. To view these medallions; Please Click Here .
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We're Still Here!
(Friday, 01 August 2008) Written by Wallace
Hello Mitchell Mates,   People have been asking if I'm still alive and if this site will continue to grow. Well my friends; the answer is yes to both. For well over two months I have been completing two projects. One is a Mitchell Schematics Book and the other is a Mitchell Part Numbers Book. Both are at least worth looking at!   This website is not sponsored and somehow we have to survive. These books are for sale and will help support out continued growth. Another book will be made available soon; the 2nd Volume of "Mitchell - Rebirth of a Legend" which will be more complete and accurate than anything to date.   Please check out our store by Clicking Here and always feel free to Contact Us if you have any questions.   Best Regards, Wallace
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Mitchell 300 8th Version Added to Gallery
(Friday, 16 May 2008) Written by Wallace
We've added the Mitchell 300 8th Version to our Mitchell Reel Gallery . This was the last of the old style 300 as we knew it. Also understand that we will be adding different "releases" to some of the version as time permits. Please bear with us, this takes longer than you think PS: I have a six-pack case of these if any one's interested in buying; please Contact Us . From the "Garcia" family collection; this is an original Garcia six-pack box, each reel inside is new in box (NIB) and never offered to the public for sale. I'd hate to break them up!
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402 Added To Mitchell Reel Gallery
(Thursday, 15 May 2008) Written by Wallace
Mitchell 402 series has been added to our  Mitchell Reel Gallery  including a first version. We hesitate placing any others as "versions" due to the minor changes made which could easily be interchanged. Serial numbers play a big part in authenticating any Mitchell reel.
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Gallery Update
(Thursday, 15 May 2008) Written by Wallace
We've updated the categories under our Gallery to make it easier to find what you're looking for. The wording under each category has also been updated. We hope this helps.
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Mitchell 400S added to Mitchell Reel Gallery
(Tuesday, 13 May 2008) Written by Wallace
Click Here to see a Mitchell 400S added to Mitchell Reel Gallery
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306S Added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery
(Sunday, 11 May 2008) Written by Wallace
Two Mitchell Sports versions of the 306S have been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery. Please Click Here to view.
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308S & 309S Added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery
(Sunday, 11 May 2008) Written by Wallace
A Mitchell 308S & 309S have been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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300S & 301S Added to Gallery
(Friday, 09 May 2008) Written by Wallace
Both a 300S & 301S have been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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Garcia Mitchell 300X Added to Gallery
(Thursday, 08 May 2008) Written by Wallace
Three versions of the Garcia Mitchell 300X have been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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Mitchell 300 7th Version Added to Gallery
(Wednesday, 07 May 2008) Written by Wallace
A 7th version Garcia Mitchell 300 has been added. There's a lot more to add within the 5th, 6th and 7th versions and will be done as time permits. See our 300 series Mitchell Reel Gallery  for more information.
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Mitchell 300 Version Updates
(Tuesday, 06 May 2008) Written by Wallace
This could go on forever; but I'm trying to give enough information and pictures to help anyone who's interested. A book could be written JUST on the 300 series Mitchell reels alone so please bear with me. I'm also sorry for the long verbiage within each version but believe me; this is the short story!   Click on the version below to open up in seperate window:   1st Version LH (301) update 2nd Version LH (301) and dating update 3rd Version regarding Garcia update 4th Version LH (301) text and picture update 5th Version text and many picture update
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Mitchell 300 6th Version Update
(Sunday, 04 May 2008) Written by Wallace
The 6th version Mitchell 300 we listed had an "optional" handle which is very rare and would cause confusion. For this reason; we've taken new pictures with the correct handle and knob. Sorry for the confusion. Click Here to view this page.
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Mitchell 300 Gallery & Version Update
(Saturday, 03 May 2008) Written by Wallace
We have added text to the Mitchell Reel Gallery 300 "version" page for clarification. The 300 "Version" is a complex issue we have tried to get everyone to agree on but without success. What's listed is the most common beliefs among Mitchell collectors and historians from all over the world. We've also updated the 5th version and added the 6th version.   Thanks for the help and understanding from those who care. Please see our Mitchell Reel Gallery 300/301 .
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408DL 2nd Version in Gallery
(Friday, 02 May 2008) Written by Wallace
A 2nd Version Garcia Mitchell 408DL has been added to the Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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408G & 400G Update in Gallery
(Wednesday, 30 April 2008) Written by Wallace
A 408G has been added plus new pictures and information has been updated for the 400G. Please see our Mitchell Reel Gallery for more information.
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Mitchell Reel Gallery Updates 408DL ++
(Monday, 28 April 2008) Written by Wallace
A 408DL 1st version has been added to the Mitchell Reel Gallery . We’ve also updated verbiage and photographs on the 300DL and the 410DL. More to come!!!
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Garcia/Browning Mitchell 908/909 Gallery Added
(Friday, 25 April 2008) Written by Wallace
Moving along as fast as possible, we've added the 1st and 2nd version Mitchell 908 to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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Garcia 340 & ARCA M34 Added to Gallery
(Thursday, 24 April 2008) Written by Wallace
A Garcia Mitchell 340 & ARCA M34 have been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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1st Version 308 Added To Gallery
(Wednesday, 23 April 2008) Written by Wallace
A 1st version Mitchell 308 from the collection of Rob Shimko, an avid Mitchell collector and mate, has been added to our Mitchell Reel Gallery .
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Favorite Links Update
(Wednesday, 26 March 2008) Written by Wallace
We have added a new link to our favorite websites we think you’ll enjoy. Click here to go to our favorite links page and click on Bigcatch TV and others.
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Mitchell 350 5/1 Gallery Update
(Thursday, 20 March 2008) Written by Wallace
We've added another version of the 350 series SN1315408 in the Mitchell Reel Gallery. Click here to go see this addition. Thanks for looking.
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498 First Version Added To Gallery
(Wednesday, 19 March 2008) Written by Wallace
A beautiful Mitchell 498 first version is now shown in our gallery. Click here to go to our Mitchell Reel Gallery and see this reel. More reels will be added as time permits.
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300C / 301C Added to Gallery
(Tuesday, 11 March 2008) Written by Wallace
A 1st and 2nd version 300C / 301C have been added to the Mitchell Reel Gallery . Sorry for the delay but not to worry, the web site is still being built daily! To go to this gallery and view these additions; please click here and thanks for looking.
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Old Schematics Updated
(Monday, 18 February 2008) Written by Wallace
I've gone through all the old schematics and made sure they were large enough for you to be able to see. A few were way too small to read, a problem we had during file transfer. I will go through all the newer schematics ASAP and fix any of these I find with the same problem.   I've also added several 1963 schematics not included before from a recent discovery. All of these came from a Garcia Supplement to their September, 1963 schematics book. A lot of collectors have thought the following reels were first introduced by Mitchell France as early as 1962 (including me) but until now, it was hard to prove. The ones added were:   400-401 402-403 406-407 408-409   Click Here to view these...
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Mitchell Reel Gallery Growing
(Saturday, 16 February 2008) Written by Wallace
We've added more Mitchell reels to our Mitchell Reel Gallery. We will "turn on" each series when we have at least one good version to show. All first versions added first to each series would be nice if possible. Some new ones to view would be the 400, 406 and 408 series 1st versions. Some of these have also been added to our store. To go to the Mitchell Reel Gallery, Click Here  or to go to our Store, Click Here .
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Mitchell Reel Gallery Update
(Monday, 11 February 2008) Written by Wallace
We've started adding Mitchell reels to our Mitchell Reel Gallery. We will "turn on" each series when we have at least one good version to show. All first versions added first to each series would be nice if possible. I've just added a Mitchell 306 1st version in this gallery and it's also for sale in our store. To go to the Mitchell Reel Gallery, Click Here  or to go to our Store, Click Here .
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Our Store is Open
(Saturday, 09 February 2008) Written by Wallace
This is to let everyone know that we’ve opened up our store. You can click on For Sale at the top of each page or on the main section of the home page. If you’d like to go there now, click here and thanks for looking.
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Mitchell Store Grand Opening
(Thursday, 07 February 2008) Written by Wallace
We have added a few Mitchell reels to our store which will be opening Saturday February 9th. These reels will help support our web site and keep us growing. You will find everything from reels good for fishing to highly collectables.   All reels are vintage manufactured from the 1940s through the 1970s and a few into the 1980s. Also note that all of these reels being sold are from our own collection in house and will be shipped by me from North Carolina, USA.   More Mitchell reels will be added almost daily so please keep looking or; if you’re looking for a specific vintage Mitchell reel please contact us with a complete description including condition. Thank you for looking…
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Mitchell 300 PRO 45th Anniversary
(Friday, 04 January 2008) Written by Wallace
A very nice Mitchell 300 PRO 45th Anniversary reel has been added to our gallery. Please  Click Here to view .
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Mitchell Super BHV Update
(Saturday, 29 December 2007) Written by Wallace
We have added the 2nd and 3rd release of this reel to our gallery. The description was also updated. Click Here to view these changes.
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Mitchell Reel Gallery Update
(Thursday, 13 December 2007) Written by Wallace
Our Mitchell Reel Gallery is still being constructed and we're up through model number 908/909. Not all models were included in the production data we have, so these will be added in later.   Click Here to view and thanks for visiting. We are working daily to add information.
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Mitchell Reel Gallery is Being Added
(Friday, 07 December 2007) Written by Wallace
This section is being built one small bit at a time but I thought you'd like to watch as it grows. I'm just listing model numbers now with year of manufacture and quantities made of each from 1946 to 1987.    This information comes from an unknown author in the late nineteen-eighties and may or may not be accurate. Photographs of each model will then be added as soon as possible. A lot of models have several versions so this will take some time! To View Click Here  
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The Mitchell 2nd Version Updated
(Monday, 03 December 2007) Written by Wallace
We have changed the description of the 2 nd version Mitchell (300) to include all round Anti-Reverse knobs with “Made in France ” on the housing. The dates of manufacture have also been changed due to information obtained from Jean-Pierre Gumprich and newly discovered articles.   This would now make all the other Half Bails with the newer Chevron or Angled Anti-Reverse Levers already commonly called 3 rd version for easier identification. Please click Here to view changes and as always, comments are welcome.
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Collector Links Added Back
(Friday, 30 November 2007) Written by Wallace
This site has been under reconstruction. When this started about two months ago, we lost some of the information including our Links pages. These collector links have been added back in and can be seen Here .         If you have a website for your collection of Mitchell or Abu reels we would be happy to ad it. Please let us know about your site through Contact Us .  
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Contact Us Not Working
(Wednesday, 28 November 2007) Written by Wallace
We just found out our Contact Us has not been working properly. If you sent us a question and we did not respond, I’m sorry to say we didn’t get it. It is working properly now and hope you understand and will ask your question again.
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More Mitchell Pros Added
(Friday, 16 November 2007) Written by Wallace
We've added the 496 PRO and 498 PRO to our Collector's Gallery . We're still waiting on the 307 and 499 pro-line series.
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Mitchell PRO Series Update
(Wednesday, 07 November 2007) Written by Wallace
Mitchell PRO Series spinning reels are still being added to our Collector's Gallery. The 307 PRO and 308 PRO have now been added. The 496 PRO and 498 PRO will come soon.   Click Here to view this Gallery
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Mitchell PRO Series
(Tuesday, 06 November 2007) Written by Wallace
Mitchell PRO Series spinning reels are being added to our Collector's Gallery. We will be building this section over the next few days and  will let you know as they are added. The 300 PRO and 306 PRO have been added so far.   Click Here to view this Gallery
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10 Millionth Gold Medallion
(Tuesday, 06 November 2007) Written by Wallace
A recent find is the Gold Medallion that had been presented to the very top executive among the “Mitchell Family” at the time, Jules Gumprich. This medallion has been kept all this time by his son and our site partner, Jean-Pierre Gumprich. This is the first public showing of this medallion as found. After cleaning we will be showing what this looked like when presented.   Click here to see this medallion.
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Mitchell Dual / Fork Series Reels
(Thursday, 01 November 2007) Written by Wallace
Mitchell Dual / Fork Series Reels have been added to the Collector's Gallery.
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Philippe Blime Presentation Reel
(Wednesday, 31 October 2007) Written by Wallace
The Philippe Blime Presentation Reel was purchased from a private collector in France. It was an amazing find and not known to exist until now. Please go to our Gallery to view this reel for the first time.
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Welcome Back
(Monday, 29 October 2007) Written by Wallace
We have been building this site for over a year now. Four weeks ago we decided to make it better. This required a complete restructure of the site which now includes larger Gallery picture images, much better Schematic images, our Glossary and much more.   Our site is about 40% complete now and as before; we will be adding images and information on a continuous basis. Each time we add; we will let you know right here what’s new on our site. We are in our infancy and like a child; we will grow in size and knowledge a little at a time.
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Welcome
(Monday, 22 October 2007) Written by Gabriel
Welcome to our new website!   We're pleased to be involved with the Mitchell Reel Museum. We hope you enjoy the new and improved features such as the site map, community forum and especially the new enlarge feature in the Gallery and Schematics sections.   Updates for this new site will be shown soon.   Sincerely, Gabriel FlashAttractions
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