Creston auction continues tradition in 2014

The rhythm of an auctioneer’s voice calling out numbers, “Thirty, thirty, I’ve got thirty, do I hear thirty-five thirty-five, I’ve got thirty-five, do I hear forty forty…” blends with the sound of other auctioneers. Each auctioneer at the Creston Auction stands on a trailer platform that can be rolled down the rows of items covering the Creston school grounds.

Hundreds of people turned up last weekend for the 48th annual Creston Auction and Country Fair.

The auction is the Creston volunteer fire department’s largest annual fundraiser. David Lavalley has been attending the auction for about 20 years, and he knows what to expect. Lavalley arrived at 7:30 a.m. Saturday to secure a good parking spot. The auction began at 9. He refers to himself as a professional junk man. “I can’t afford anything new, but I can sure buy it used,” he said.

While the rows and piles of items look like they belong in a landfill rather than at an auction, closer inspection can reveal useful pieces of equipment or antique treasures that can be purchased at a bargain price. Though sometimes, when the bidding gets going an item that is worth $5 can go for $20, according to Sam Scott, who has volunteered as an auctioneer for the fundraiser in past years”

“You’ll wait four or five hours for something and then get out bid,” Lavalley said. “There’s always someone who wants it more. You have to put a price limit on things.”

Lavalley looks forward to the event, not only for the chance to purchase items and support the Creston Fire Department, but as a social event and the chance to visit with old friends like Scott.

For others it’s a fun way to spend a day.

“It’s a little bit of a treasure hunt,” Rebecca Cleveland said. “You have the be here the whole day to really appreciate it.”

The general merchandise auction started at 9 a.m. and went until all items were sold. In addition to the auction, local art and crafts were available for purchase, as well as a bake sale.