The History of the Dayton Auto Auction: A Legacy of Excellence

The Dayton Auto Auction has been a cornerstone of the automotive industry in the Midwest for over seven decades. Founded in 1950 by Jim Foot, the auction began as a humble operation known as the Dayton Dixie Auto Auction, housed in a simple Quonset hut. What started as a small, local venture has grown into one of the oldest continually operated auto auctions in the United States, standing as a testament to resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the automotive community.

The Early Years: A Modest Beginning

When Jim Foot launched the auction, the automotive industry was booming in post-war America. Dealers needed a trusted place to buy and sell vehicles, and the Dayton Dixie Auto Auction quickly became a reliable hub for transactions. Its original location, just down the road from its current site, was small but full of energy, with dealers gathering to bid on cars in a no-frills setting that embodied the hardworking spirit of Dayton.

Growth and Evolution: A Family Tradition

In 1985, the auction was acquired by a local family who recognized its legacy and potential. Under their leadership, the business expanded while maintaining the personal touch and customer-first philosophy that had always set it apart. By 1990, the auction had outgrown its original home and moved to its current location at 7545 N. Dixie Dr., Dayton, OH 45414.

This move allowed for greater efficiency, improved facilities, and a two-lane auction setup, making it easier for dealers to participate in sales. Over time, Dayton Auto Auction solidified its reputation as a trusted marketplace where buyers and sellers could connect in a fast-paced, fair, and professional environment.

A Weekly Tradition: Dealer & Public Sales

One of the key aspects that has sustained Dayton Auto Auction’s success is its structured sale schedule. Every Friday at noon, the auction hosts a dealer-only sale, bringing together professional buyers and sellers looking for top-quality inventory. Additionally, on the first and third Friday of each month, the auction opens its doors for a public repo sale, allowing individuals the opportunity to bid on repossessed vehicles and find great deals.

This consistent schedule has made Dayton Auto Auction a weekly ritual for many in the industry. Dealers and buyers alike know that Friday is auction day in Dayton—a tradition that has been upheld for decades.

A Lasting Legacy in the Auto Auction Industry

Today, Dayton Auto Auction remains family-owned and operated, carrying forward the legacy that began in 1950. While the industry has evolved with digital bidding and online sales, the Dayton Auto Auction continues to be an in-person sale with time-tested auction traditions.

More than just a business, Dayton Auto Auction is a pillar of the automotive dealer community, a place where relationships are built, deals are made, and history is written—one auction at a time. As it looks toward the future, the auction remains committed to providing the best experience for its dealers and customers, just as it has for over 70 years.

Whether you’re a seasoned dealer or a first-time buyer, one thing is certain—Dayton Auto Auction is where great vehicles find new homes, and great traditions never fade.