The roar of classic engines, the buzz of the crowd, and the gavel’s unmistakable bang—for over 50 years, Auburn, Indiana, has been home to one of the most iconic collector-car auctions in the world. What began as a small-town auction has grown into a globally recognized automotive tradition, and the story of how it all started is as fascinating as the cars that have passed over its block.
1952
Kruse International founded by Russell W. Kruse
1971
First Auburn Labor Day classic-car auction held behind Dairy Queen
1972
Auction moves to DeKalb High School football field
1981
Sold to ITT Corporation
1986
Repurchased by Kruse family
1989
Kruse Auction Park opens
1999
Acquired by eBay
2002
Bought back by Dean Kruse
2010
RM Completes Acquisition of Park
2010
RM runs Auctions America at Park
2021
Auburn Auction Park Closes
2022
Auburn Auctions held at Kruse Plaza (Labor Day & Spring)
Humble Beginnings: The Birth of Kruse International
The journey began in 1952 when Russell W. Kruse founded Kruse International in Auburn, Indiana. Originally, the company specialized in real estate, farm, and personal-property auctions. But in 1971, everything changed.
On Labor Day weekend in 1971, Kruse held his first-ever collector-car auction in a field behind a Dairy Queen in Auburn. The idea was novel—and it took off. What started as a local event quickly evolved into the world’s largest classic-car sale, drawing enthusiasts from across the country.
From School Gyms to Auction Empires
The early years saw the auction moving to DeKalb High School, where it was held annually from 1972 to 1988. But as the event’s popularity soared, the need for a larger venue became clear.
In 1989, the Kruse family built the Kruse Auction Park, a massive 235-acre complex designed specifically to accommodate the growing scale of the Auburn auctions. This site became synonymous with the Labor Day tradition, hosting tens of thousands of visitors and some of the rarest collector cars in the world for more than three decades.
Shifting Gears: Ownership Changes Over the Years
As with any enduring enterprise, Kruse International went through several ownership transitions:
1981: Acquired by ITT Corporation.
1986: Bought back by the Kruse family.
1999: Sold to eBay, aiming to break into live auctions.
2002: Dean Kruse repurchased the business.
2010: Indiana revoked Dean Kruse’s auctioneer license, marking a major turning point.
Following this, the Kruse Auction Park was acquired by RM Auctions, which launched Auctions America by RM. From 2010 to 2021, RM breathed new life into the event, modernizing the experience while respecting its roots. By 2018, the Auctions America name was retired, and the event was operated as RM Sotheby’s Auburn Auction until 2021.
A New Era: Worldwide Auctioneers Carries the Torch
Today, the legacy lives on under the stewardship of Worldwide Auctioneers, founded by John and Matthew Kruse—a new generation keeping the family name at the heart of Auburn’s car culture.
The auctions now take place at Kruse Plaza, a 30-acre, state-of-the-art facility that includes a 200,000 sq. ft. climate-controlled venue. Not only is Auburn still the home of the beloved Labor Day Weekend Auburn Auction, but it’s also the site of the Enthusiast Auction held each spring.
Kruse Plaza now serves as Worldwide Auctioneers’ headquarters, ensuring that Auburn remains a central hub in the world of collector cars.
More Than Just an Auction—It’s a Tradition
What began as a small local event in 1971 has grown into a world-renowned celebration of automotive history. Through ownership changes, evolving facilities, and industry shifts, the Auburn auction tradition endures—a testament to the passion of collectors, the vision of the Kruse family, and the timeless allure of classic cars.
Over 50 years later, the engines are still revving, the crowds are still gathering, and the legacy is stronger than ever.