Hi,
Much as I love my 24x14 bass drum, it is not the size that would be most period correct (if that matters) or give you the sonic signature of a slightly smaller drum.
Pictures and recordings both suggest 22 and 20" kicks prevailed.
This all comes down to your own needs for historical accuracy and/or the sound you want and the resultant musical blend of your band's instruments. A 24 will sound terrific, in my experience; but will not have the more contained punch of a smaller kick which will also sound terrific. Just different.
Pretty much any of the first tier US manufacturers from the period would be suitable. They all got used. WS Holland played a lot of Rogers, DJ Fontana's famous kit was a RB Gretsch. Levon was a Ludwig guy for the most part. None of them used 24" in that time period.
PS: here's some good info and pics re Fontana's Gretsch
http://www.scottymoore.net/gretschdrums.html
Have fun,
Patrick