By Barbara Arnstein
Gentner’s Commission Market in Springville, fondly known as “The Hill” is an auction place, Farmers’ Market, Flea Market, and social hub all rolled into one. It’s a place for auctions of animals and all kinds of items, buying farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, picking up pastries and browsing through rows of bargains in boxes. In season, there are strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, canteloupes, apples and so much more from fields and orchards. You can find your favorite flowers and herbs started as seedlings, and in pots and planters. You can also find all kinds of antique furniture, every type of tool, various crafts, an assortment of garden decorations and lots more. The best part is, you’ll never know exactly what you’ll find on the many vendors’ tables or waiting to be auctioned, so there are always interesting surprises.
and planters. Photo/Barbara Arnstein
On every visit the whole family will find so much to enjoy. The Amish bakery booth offers a variety of items including several kinds of breads, fruit pies and pastries. Kids always make a bee-line for the toys in the bargain boxes, while adults typically look over the kitchen items in them. Collectors look over the many tables of vintage items, including costume jewelry and ceramic figurines.
Talk to the seller at the table full of honey items and beeswax candles she’ll tell you fascinating facts about the history of honey. Listen to the guys playing guitars and singing gospel songs. Look at the selection of sauces and spices, and the cheese curds, at the Dilly Dallies stand. Marvel at the fast talking of the auctioneer. Smile at the amusing signs. Here’s a sample: “Where in the Bible is the part about turning water into wine? Asking for a friend.”
The outdoor part of the auction activities begins at 9am, the hay is sold at noon and at 2pm, inside the barn, is the animal and produce auction. The market was opened in 1939 by Raymond Gentner and Norbert Kessler. The current owner and operator, Damon Gentner; the third generation of Gentners to own and operate the Auction. It is located at 341 West Main Street in Springville, NY. It has sales every Wednesday, and it’s open year-round. The Flea & Farmers’ Market opens at dawn. For more information, go to Facebook: Genters Commission Market.