Tony Furr of Classic Auctions calls out items and takes the bids at Wilson Tractor Supply.

On Wednesday, January 28th, starting at 10am, the entire contents of Wilson Tractor Supply at 1353 S. Lafayette St. in Shelby was auctioned off. There was a full house of people bidding on some great and hard to find tractor parts and equipment. Many bidders were from out of state. Jimmy Wilson, who obtained a wealth of knowledge about tractors and implements, opened his business in 1978 and it became a tractor enthusiast's institution. Although he was not at the auction's beginning, Mr. Wilson finally came about noon and spent about a hour enjoying the company of old friends and customers. The day was an admixture of bargain seekers and a nostalgic gathering of people who loved Jimmy. The auction concluded at 3 p.m. and the last load of equipment went out on Thursday night. Mr. Wilson plans to join his wife in an assisted living facility.

M.A. Andrews