A true artist - "Lewis Ellis"
Our Inspiration
To this day I have yet to meet an artist as talented as my grandfather, Lewis Ellis.
I could go on forever about all of his numerous creations and masterpieces, but my favorite has to be one he will always be remembered for being instrumental in: The RCAF Supermarine Spitfire.
Early in WW2 the Spitfire was having issues with it's machine gun. It was considered inaccurate and unreliable for such an iconic warplane until Lewis, an aircraftman from Winnipeg stepped in. Working tirelessly, he proved his genius by taking over and perfecting the machine gun, helping the Spitfire there on out reign the skies for the Allies.
His Legacy
Lewis was a master with his hands, able to make art out of anything, no matter the medium. He built his own house in North Vancouver (which still stands 80 years later, as strong as the day it was built) and became a jewelry maker of his own design, and his pieces are till sought after today.
His descendants all claim they're artistic ability came from him, and if I can claim even a shred of his ability, I will consider anything I make blessed. As his grandson, I hope that I can carry on his legacy through the fishing products I make.
I'm reminded often of the walks on the pier on Ambleside Beach that we took, and how we watched the fisherman jealously. I'd like to think that if given the chance, we could fish together there, and that he would be proud to use a lure I made in his honor.
Thanks for reading this...
Richard Wilby
Owner - Spitfire Fishing Products