From farm auctions to Wisconsin champion, second generation auctioneer takes state title

Carol Spaeth-Bauer | Wisconsin State Farmer

DOUSMAN, WI – Jenny Markham-Gehl cashiered $300,000 auctions when she was in eighth grade. It didn’t make any

difference what the weather was like or what they had going on, if there was an auction her dad Jim Markham was doing, Jenny and her brother Tim were expected to be there to help. There was no such thing as a day off. If an auction was booked, they were there to help — running tickets, holding up items for sale and eventually ringing. 

Growing up in an auction family poised Markham-Gehl for a career she loves and the recognition of being named Champion at the 2019 Wisconsin Auctioneer’s Championship Contest at the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association (WAA) annual convention in Stevens Point, WI on Jan. 27.

While Markham-Gehl grew up around farm and estate auctions in Dubuque County, Iowa, when she decided to take the leap to become an auctioneer, it was as a benefit auctioneer. 

Source: https://www.wisfarmer.com/story/news/2019/02/06/farm-auctions-wisconsin-champion-auctioneer/2753578002/

Other Articles You May Be Interested In

Join Auction Professionals

Join Auction Professionals

Join auction professionals from across Wisconsin for an inspiring and action-packed weekend at the 2026 Wisconsin Auctioneers Association Annual Convention! This year’s theme, “Collaborating Together,” celebrates the power of connection, teamwork, and shared...

2023 Champions

2023 Champions

Congratulations to our Wisconsin State Champions! Pictures coming soon! Novice Champion: Lake Boehm Wisconsin State Champion: Lake Boehm Reserve State Champion: Jacob Hills 1st Runner up for Wisconsin State Champion: Marty Griepentrog Wisconsin Ringman Champion:...

Board Vacancy

Board Vacancy

Dear WAA Members, I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the summer. We’ve had a board member step down and we will be filling the position at the annual meeting in January. This is a great opportunity to serve our members and better our association. If...

Buyer Tips

Buyer Tips

Auctions are unique — in experience, in sound, in practice. Many auction attendees find the experience addictive. They report that there’s nothing quite like the thrill of finding something they want and then bidding against others who want the same thing. But you...

David Dale Koning Obituary

David Dale Koning Obituary

David Dale Koning, 74, of Monroe, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, October 19, 2023.Dave was born in Sterling, IL on August 8, 1949, the oldest of 8 children born to Willard and Mildred (Longanecker) Koning. He helped on the family farm and enjoyed sports,...