The family-owned arena closed its doors forever in August, after a 60-year run of sports, concerts, entertainment and special shows in the Miami Valley. It hosted its last event on late August, taking with it a $36 million annual economic impact.
RELATED: Last event for Hara Arena later this month
Everything But the House, an online global marketplace for estate sales, will host an online auction showcasing the eclectic assortment of Hara items and memorabilia. All items start at a $1 bid.
The auction will include a limited number of Hara Arena and Cincinnati’s Crosley Field seats, Hara signage, photos, posters, sports and event memorabilia, sports equipment, chandeliers, catering items, tables and chairs.
An estate sale for Ralph and Edna Wampler also will run during the same time on the website. The Wampler family maintained the business for all 60 years, but problems started when founder Harold Wampler died in 1996.
RELATED: Residents react with sadness over Hara closing
His unresolved estate — under which Hara is co-owned — launched a 20 year family and legal battle that drained Hara of the resources for much-needed renovations and reorganization, according to the press release.
The Wamplers, with the help of national venue management company, VenuWorks, worked for years to change that to a public-private ownership structure to clear Hara’s debt, lighten its tax burden and place it on a more sustainable path, but were unsuccessful.
Now, it’s time to bid farewell to pieces left from Hara.
“We were overwhelmed by the number, and variety, of requests we received from people hoping to get a Hara keepsake,” said Karen Wampler, Hara marketing director.
Wampler said unique requests have surfaced since Hara’s closing. Brides have inquired about purchasing a chandelier from their reception hall, concert goers want a picture or a backstage pass from their most memorable show, and lifelong hockey fans just want a banner or seat from the old days of the ice rink.
When Hara’s closure became apparent, Miami Valley residents called the Dayton Daily News to reminisce over moments made at the legendary venue. Residents recalled hockey games, car shows and appearances made by Van Halen and Nirvana.
Over the decades, Hara hosted hundreds of high-profile events that include presidential visits, Wayne Gretzky’s pro hockey debut and performances by the Rolling Stones, Prince and the Grateful Dead.
Interested consumers can bid on sale items from Nov. 24 to Nov. 30 at the auction website.
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