It was a good year, a record year, in fact, for the annual Southport Fireman's Auction. On Aug. 23, the auction raised a record $35,000. "It turned out well for us. We had a big crowd, good weather and people willing to spend money. It was the best year ever," said Fire Chief and auctioneer Gerry Gamage.

The Southport Fireman's Auction began in the 1930s under former Fire Chief Stuart Thompson as a way to pay for additional firefighting equipment without burdening taxpayers for the extra expense.

Last year, the department bought eight air-packs and tanks from auction proceeds. This year, Gamage reports the department plans to buy a dozen turn-out gear units.

Among the large auction crowd were Bob and Irene Jarrett of Yarmouth. The couple has attended numerous Southport Fireman's Auctions.

"We come almost every year. It's a great way to pick up a few items for the house," Bob said.  Irene scouted out auction items before the bidding started to devise her bidding strategy. "I like the antique furniture and finding a bargain," she said. "There is an end table I want to bid on."

When asked the maximum amount she would bid, Irene leaned over and asked her husband, "How much cash did you bring?"

While the Jarretts were enjoying bidding, Tim Hanley of Southport rarely bids or buys any items. Hanley is an appraiser and simply enjoys witnessing values placed on items by the public. "Values are important to me, especially for boats and antiques. I like to keep up with that kind of stuff," he said. "I come every year, but I doubt if I will buy anything."

Hanley has bid in the past. The last item he bid on was a clam hog. "I didn't get it. I was outbid," he said. "I guess I'm too damn cheap. I didn't need the clam hog, anyway."

This year's auction also had a royal visit of sorts. The reigning American Miss Southern Mrs. Maine Katie Cunningham cooked and served food with Boothbay Region Fire Auxiliary. She lives in Boothbay Harbor and is a friend of auxiliary member Jennifer Manson. "I'm here because I absolutely love and adore Jenn (Jennifer Manson) who works with my wife. She asked me to volunteer last year. So I just kind of stuck and they gave me a T-shirt, and said 'You're part of us'," Cunningham said.