FOR AN evening, they replaced the cadence of the auctioneer’s chant for a time-transporting trio’s acoustic guitar, harmonica, and smooth vocals on easy rock hits of decades past. Closing document signings at the conference room table were replaced with hugs, handshakes, and recollections of favorite memories from the past 50 years. Mouth-watering barbeque and desserts filled plates on tables topped with potted hydrangeas, bringing fellowship full circle.
The Craig & Wheeler Realty & Auction family celebrated the company’s golden anniversary on August 5th at the Blue Ribbon Circle at the Celebration. Before his death, it was a special occasion David Craig looked forward to as he saw the date growing closer.
Tad Craig said, “Our dad mentioned for years how if you can have a company for 50 years, you have done something, and we wanted to honor him and our grandfather, Auburn Wheeler [who founded the company]. We are simply continuing what they started in 1973.”
Brothers Tad and Ben Craig and their mother, Belinda Craig, are committed to fulfilling the original vision and dream upon which David Craig and his father-in-law, Auburn Wheeler, founded the company.
“This event was a culmination of [their] ultimate sacrifice, hard work, dedication, commitment, [and desire] to start a company, trying to live the American dream,” said Ben.
Inflation and mortgage rates were rising in 1973, but that couldn’t decrease the pair’s passion and heart for pursuing their dream of serving the real estate and auction needs of the residents of Bedford County and the surrounding area. Over the years, the market and the company have ridden out their highs and lows and witnessed a futuristic change in how we conduct business. And today’s team grew from only four: David, Auburn, Belinda, and Alan Gill, David’s brother-in-law.
Ben said, “We have evolved from a family business into one with more than 20 agents. Buyers and sellers appreciate knowing we have great agents and the assurance that the company’s owners are here every day in the office, willing and ready to help our agents in all aspects.”
The Craig family recognizes that the key to their door to success opens with the support of everyone on both sides.
“We are humbled by the turnout for the 50th Celebration, and we want to thank all the families and people that have helped get us to where we are,” said Tad. “So many companies sell out or shut down, and family businesses are tough, simply because you’re working with family.”
But David’s passion for their family’s work in the community trumped every difficulty.
Tad said, “He loved what we do, and I’ve always said if this were a job, I would have quit 28 years ago. Real estate is a lifestyle for our family; it’s just what we do and who we are. It’s been our honor to help families sell their property, hold estate auctions, or buy their first home. I believe that Aub and Big Dave would have loved the 50th Celebration.”
Ben agrees. “It’s amazing, and my only regret is that Granddad and Dad weren’t able to be a part of it. We are truly just leading a vision of what they began into the future. And the future is bright for years ahead.”
Belinda appreciated the opportunity to thank the community for the support extended to her family throughout the many years they’ve been here.
“I couldn’t help but be a little sentimental, greeting people and watching those from every walk of life come through those doors — the very people who helped build our company. Each person shared memories of buying or selling their home or farms from Daddy or David. These are the people who helped feed, clothe, and educate my sons, and I will forever be humbled and grateful for each and every one that entrusted us to help them with their real estate transactions,” Belinda said.
She’s seen it all.
“I was there from the very first day when Daddy, David, and myself had a dream, and with the people of this and surrounding counties, we watched that dream come true,” said Belinda. “I guess I’m the last one standing! I truly felt David and Daddy’s presence all around us, and I know if there are holes in heaven, they were surely watching as the torch has been passed to the third generation.”
The third generation’s vision for the future is more of the same.
“Real estate is a relationship business, and Dad and Granddad laid a foundation of work ethic and treating people right. We continue to strive for that in every deal we do,” said Tad.
It’s teamwork, just like the past 50 years.
“Ben has so many things that he excels in. We are different, but I can say he’s been a great partner because his strengths are opposite of mine and vice versa. We both think that with all the new businesses and neighborhoods coming to our marketplace, there are years of growth for Shelbyville and Bedford County. I hope you will be seeing wagon wheels and orange and white signs for many years to follow.” GN
