Peter Ross, a 52-year-old husband and father of two, heads up Peter Ross Auction Services Ltd. in Ingleside, ON, where he sells everything from livestock to real estate, and furniture to farm equipment.
Perch sat down with him to learn more about life behind the mic.
What did you do before you were an auctioneer?
I ran a successful construction company for ten years. Also, I’ve always farmed, cash cropped, managed properties, and sold and appraised real estate.
Why did you become an auctioneer?
My father was an auctioneer, so I was exposed to the profession at a very young age. I started my auction house in 1995. I really like standing up in front of a crowd and selling, and going through the ins and outs of the auction process. It doesn’t feel like work to me!
What is the most interesting thing you’ve ever sold?
That would have to be a series of 26 pieces of rare Canadian sports scene pottery that belonged to true collectors, the late Murray and Hazel Detweiler of Oxford Mills. Those dishes sold for more than $45,000. I was lucky to have the opportunity to sell them!
Best historical value?
I once sold an Army officer’s notebook from the war of 1812 originating from Dundas County. The Cornwall Community Museum bought it for around $6,000.
How many auctions have you completed?
We have up to 300 sales a year and I figure I’ve done about 4,500 sales since starting out.
Have you ever saved something for yourself?
No.
How many words per minute can you speak?
I’m not sure. But I can tell you I can sell a car a minute and about 100 items per hour!
Illustration: James Lapierre/ArtWorks Studio
