A to Z, Tom Cornwell has Auctioned it All

By Debbie Behne
​Note: This feature is in the February TF 2022 issue.

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Tom Cornwell grew up in an auction family, now known for farm toy auctions as well.
"My father, Les, upon returning from the service in 1947 boarded a train at Grand Island, Neb., and headed west to Sterling, Colo., to attend the Jim Hoover School of Auctioneering and Radio Broadcast. After returning from Colorado, he established the Cedar Rapids Sale Pavilion at Cedar Rapids, Neb. He co-owned and operated the sale barn until the fall of 1957, when fire destroyed it. In 1957, he moved to Aurora, Neb., and bought into the Aurora Sales Pavilion," said Tom in a tribute to his dad on the business website.
"From that time on, he conducted numerous auctions throughout Hamilton and adjoining countries. He was the auctioneer at livestock sales at various times in Grand Island, Ravenna and Wahoo. Later, his brother, Bill, joined him in the auction business and, in 1979, I started working auctions with him. He held a real estate license in conjunction with the auction business. In addition to his brother (Bill) and me, my brother, Kent, has also been active in the auction business as a ting man," Tom shared.
"I have many cherished memories during my childhood following Dad from auction to auction and growing up in the auction environment."

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