We bet many attics in the Somerset Hills still contain “antiques” bought at Manning’s Auction in Peapack, N.J. Robert “Col. Bob” Manning (1926-1994) founded and ran the business (1972-1988), first at the Kay Memorial Building on Willow Avenue and later on Main Street, Peapack. Residents would flock to the auctions on Friday or Saturday night for the entertainment as much as for possible bargains. Assisting Col. Bob was his brother Clyde B. Manning (1908-1993), also an accomplished auctioneer. They sold most items on consignment, taking a percentage of the sale price.
In addition to his own auction house, Col. Bob would preside at auctions for private estates, the Jolly Roger Flea Market (1972) in Meyersville, and the New Vernon Fire Department’s Country Auction (1992).
