The sights, sounds, emotions, and memories of auction day will long remain with me.
The excitement of the auction process and the fascination with an industry so different from my own, had me riveted. I very much wanted to capture the history and success of a 57 year old family business, and to portray those who make their living in this field. It was an honor to be a part of the day, and I came away with so many memories and photographs.
A favorite part of the day for me was hearing stories from “back in the day”. Like a child at bedtime, I kept asking for more. On a day that was at times bittersweet, it was a joy to hear the laughter from those who had grown to be like family after so many years working together.
Amy’s father placed this horseshoe in the shop many years ago, but she took it down this day intending it to be a keepsake. Instead, the horseshoe was passed on to two brothers who had started a welding business, and had purchased several pieces of equipment in the auction.
In a sense it was like passing the torch on to a new generation.
Time goes by, economies and businesses change, but the memories of a father who created a business 57 years ago, and grew it into a success, will not fade. Here’s to Warren G. Harris on a job well done, and to his family, for carrying on a proud family tradition.
Now! To grow and enhance the other part of the business: Harris Self-Storage!
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 
Great post and photos Laurie and I think you already know which is my favorite one, the horse shoe with the ray of light is just phenomenal 😀
Thank you, Joe! That was one of my favorites, too, and it’s made me learn about focal points/
This was so interesting. Love the passing on of the horseshoe. We’ve been to two auctions, both as a reporter. We were amazed at how far people traveled or phoned in. Lots of passion. A great experience, xo LMA
Wasn’t the passing on of the horseshoe a cool thing? It sure made for one of the bright spots in this day for the family. The other was the energy and passion. Great fun!
Oh wow, the horseshoe! Story and photo – that is just both heartbreakng and heartwarming at the same time – is there a word for that? You did the family proud Laurie! From over here I feel privileged to have been able to share the occasion, the camaraderie and the emotion of the event. Thank you 🙂
Pauline, thank you … I’m so glad to read your words. It was important to me to try to find that balance, particularly because I love this family so much!
What an amazing post, must have been sad too, I think when things finish like that there is always some element of sadness. I love you photo editorial of it.
Thank you, Leanne. I agree … it did seem like a bit of a wake. part celebration, but definitely sad, too.
You’ve really done such a wonderful job of document the whole end of an era LB. Loving the horseshoe in the sunlight photo too and it’s fantastic that the younger fella’s will have it for their new shop. Really generous and gracious thing to pass along.
Wasn’t the whole horseshoe story the perfect thing for this day?!?! It sure made the family happy to have those young guys carry on a proud tradition and brought smiles to several faces!
And look, another shrine. Mr. Harris built something wonderful that clearly gave his family and his community joy as well as service. This has been a great story.
Thank you, Crystal. I’m so glad to have been able to share the Harris story!
Thanks to your touching documental work, I’m learning a lot about your wonderful country.
I admire the love and deep respect you have for your traditions.
Marcelo, thank you! That means much to me.
What a legacy. You’ve captured the story, the history and the feelings, so well in these words and pictures. I especially loved the story of the horseshoe. Thanks for documenting and sharing, LB.
You’ve captured the day nicely. Memories for sure, but seeing the equipment sold off to be used again is an enduring legacy.
I love the details you notice and capture so well! 🙂
Thanks Elina! I often think that folks will wonder why I take some of the pictures that I do 🙂
🙂