Thursday 9 February 2012

Messeena of Clapton

Once upon a time in Arcadia, and most frequently upon a Thursday, when the mercury froze and the curtain lining stuck to the window, ladies and gentlemen's minds might turn to an evening of fly tying in front of a roaring fire.  Prior to this they would have sent a stamp addressed return envelope to Messeena's of Leamington Spa who sold 'Everything for the Amateur Fly Tyer'.  Messeena's of the Spa were related to an outlet in the district of London known as Clapton where in February of 1923 Mr. Saul Solomons, a 'feather merchant', changed his name by deed poll to Saul Solomon Messeena.

Should you wish to change your name by deed poll I suggest that you visit me at my stall on Spitalfields Antiques Market where I am to be found every Thursday selling Vintage Fishing Tackle for the Soul and where I can give you a roll call of choices, most of which will be names of lost fishing tackle dealers and brands including Messeena.  To this effect you are reminded that Sportex and Speedbarb are already taken.