annual auction
The AFA’s Annual Benefit Auction was always around informally, with a bit of swapping and tailgating, but in 1991, in Little Rock, AR, it all got formalized and real, with the introduction of an auctioneer and a spot on the schedule. Since 1991, the auction has been a mainstay of AFA Conventions, helping to support the AFA’s various funds.
Along with the opportunity to wave the hand or nod the head and cash in on a bargain, the Friday night auction has become a social event as well, providing convention attendees a gathering spot and focal point before the dance. For those who have other plans for the evening, there’s also a silent auction.
So where do all of the auctioned items come from? AFA supporters—generous members of the FIA community, AFA Chapters, and individual members—have all stepped up over the years, offering their valuable items in support of their association.
Rasp snakes and boxes of rasps, forged rose gardens and forges, Damascus knives and hoof knives, handmade tables and tables full of items… The AFA auction has something for everyone: from ornamental and artistic pieces to functional, work-a-day items for your shoeing rig.
The benefits of donating items to the AFA Convention and the auction go beyond supporting the various AFA funds. Donated items are also tax deductible as charitable contributions. Donors can even earmark which fund will receive the money.
THIS YEAR'S AUCTION TOTALS
Number of items in auction – 90
Total sales - $13,208
HIGHEST SELLING ITEMS
Blacksmith/Farrier Shop Sign
Made by Bruce Daniels in 1985, bought in the auction by Paul Brewer for $1300. Re-donated by Carol Brewer in memory of the late Paul Brewer. Bought by Anvil 21, with money donated to the Jim Linzy Memorial Fund totaling $3000.
Hatchet and Stand
Donated by Ray Legal, Waverly Iowa
Bought by Craig Quinn, CJF for $650, with money donated to the National Farrier Center/Memorial Education Fund.
Alabama State Wildflower Sculpture
Donated by Alabama Professional Farriers Association (forged at Blackwater Forge). Bought by Skip Bickford for $500, with money donated to the American Farriers Team.