What is now Gibson Realty & Auction was established in 1939 by Malcolm Gibson. Malcolm Gibson, a livestock trader, did not plan to be an auctioneer but was at his father’s, Tom Gibson, Livestock Sales & Trading barn, when a gentleman was talking about needing to have an auction and the local auctioneer was sick and no other auctioneer was available. Malcolm, jokingly stated, ‘that he was looking at the best auctioneer in the county’. The gentleman went to the local paper and placed the ads and a new career began that included selling the last and largest mule sale in Western Kentucky. Malcolm Gibson conducted livestock auctions in Tennessee, Kentucky and Illinois on a weekly basis for many years. His auction career spanned over 60 years, selling farm equipment, farm land, race horses, antiques, household items, homes and a coal mine and railroad. Malcolm remained active with his horses and did a few benefit auctions until his death in 2000.

Mack Gibson, owner of Gibson Realty & Auction, like his father did not plan to become an auctioneer, but his father, Malcolm needed a break during an auction and asked his son to come over and “sell awhile” in front of a large crowd. Mack took the microphone and has been conducting auctions for over 38 years. Mack served his apprenticeship under his father and also worked with his cousin, the late Col. Hazel Brooks for many years .Claudia Gibson, Mack’s mother assisted with auctions and was very knowledgeable about antiques and glassware until her health deteriorated and she passed away in 1994. Mack has always treasured the support and guidance he received from his family.

Early in Mack’s career, Malcolm said to Mack “Son, always remember, you sell every item just like you own it. No matter how large or small the item, it is important to the person that owns it.” Mack continues to heed his father’s advice and that remains the goal for Gibson Realty & Auction, “to sell like we own it”, working to achieve top dollar for our clients.

Mack Gibson was one of the youngest auctioneers in the state of Kentucky when he received his license. He is also a licensed real estate broker and in 1983 received his designation as a member of the Certified Auctioneers Institute, which requires advanced auction training.

Today, Gibson Realty & Auction remains a family owned and operated business. Mack’s wife, Robin works daily with him, his sister Anne Gibson Conrad continues as his clerk and has worked the auctions for 38 years. Sarah Gibson, Mack and Robin’s daughter assists with auctions during her free time from college.