Peabody Main Street plans benefit auction
Main Street supporters will have a chance to bid on some unusual items Feb. 22 at an auction to benefit the program.
The auction has been held every year or two since the Main Street program started. The goal for the first year was to make $500, however the sale topped $3,000 and the totals have been climbing ever since. The last benefit auction was held in 2001 and brought in more than $9,000.
Originally, the theme was a memorabilia auction and people were encouraged to donate items from Peabody's past. Pictures, calendars, post cards, old yearbooks, and advertising items from former businesses were sold to the highest bidder.
Eventually there was less and less memorabilia available, so the focus of the auction turned to "originals." Local people, who make one of a kind items, were asked to donate to the auction.
Quilts, porch swings, paintings, photography, stained glass, counted cross stitch, and many other homemade items have been sold over the years to help fund the program.
Also for sale will be the privilege of naming the sports complex and the circle drive at the city park. The high bidder will be able to pick a name. Main Street will purchase a sign that will remain in place for a year. The sign will be given to the bidder after that year is up.
"I haven't been to one of the benefit auctions yet," said Main Street manager Joanna Brazil. "But I have heard a lot about them and everyone agrees they are fun. It must be a pretty painless way to write a check to support the program."
Main Street will be seeking donations of original items and Peabody memorabilia during January and February. For more information, contact Brazil at the Peabody City Building (983-2771).
