American Fork and Hoe Co. casting rod.

This is the only information on this casting rod. Mfg by The American Fork and Hoe Co., Geneva, Ohio, Patent Pending. The rod is 4ft 7 inches, steel and shaped and colored to look like bamboo. It has 3 ferules. It has a cork handle with a metal but plate. What does patent pending mean? Is it older than dirt cause it stinks to high heaven. How can I clean up the mildew on it? It was stored in the basement rafters for ever. This rod was my wife's Grandfather who passed away in 1975 @ 79 yrs old. How old do you think this rod is? Thanks for any info.