Celebrating 44 Years of State Line Auto Auction: A Milestone with a Special Guest

This year, State Line Auto Auction reached a significant milestone - 44 years of being a trusted partner for our dealers and a proud part of the Waverly community. As we reflect on our journey, we’re reminded that what makes our auction stand out isn’t just the vehicles we sell, but the relationships we’ve built along the way and the dedication to service that drives us forward.

A Legacy of Innovation and Community

State Line Auto Auction was founded in 1981 by Harry and Zora Barber, and over the years, it’s grown into a cornerstone of the local community. From our early days with two auction lanes to the nine we operate today, our growth has been driven by a commitment to providing a reliable and efficient service to our dealer base. A big part of that journey was making history in 1995 as the first auto auction to sell vehicles via Simulcast, helping to shape the future of auto auctions.

But our story is as much about our people as it is about our innovations. Our team, many of whom have been with us for years, has always been at the heart of everything we do. We’re grateful for the dedication of everyone who’s been part of this journey, and for the strong bonds we’ve built with our community.

With three generations of leadership under our belt, we’re proud to carry on the legacy of Jeff Barber, who took over the reins from his parents in the early 1980s. Now, his children - Beth, Emily, and Paul - are continuing to lead the way, ensuring that the future of State Line is as bright as its past.

A Celebration Like No Other: Special Guest Richard Petty

This year’s anniversary sale was a fantastic way to come together and celebrate the history we’ve built, the relationships we’ve formed, and the road ahead. With a lineup of 1,428 vehicles and 928 sold, it was another busy day of buying and selling. What truly made this year’s event unforgettable, however, was the surprise appearance of Richard Petty.

Richard Petty, a true legend in the automotive world, added a special touch to the occasion. While we’ve had notable guests in the past, his connection to the car industry and his iconic status made this year’s sale feel like something extra special. Our dealers and guests had the opportunity to meet “The King” of NASCAR, and his presence was the perfect addition to our anniversary celebration.

And of course, we couldn’t forget our famous chicken pit. No anniversary sale at State Line would be complete without our legendary BBQ chicken. It’s a long-standing tradition that has become a favorite among dealers and guests alike, offering a chance to relax and refuel with a delicious meal while enjoying the festivities.

Looking Ahead to the Next 44 Years

As we reflect on 44 years, we’re grateful for the trust of our dealers, the hard work of our team, and the continued support from our community. We’re looking forward to what’s next and are excited to continue growing alongside the people who have made this journey possible.

We invite you to join us on this exciting journey as we continue to innovate, grow, and serve you with the Best in the Bid-ness®!