Gus Rosen establishes the business in Cleveland, Ohio. Armed with a megaphone, Gus becomes known across the Midwest for his dynamic auctioneering style and fair dealings, setting the foundation for the Rosen reputation.
1920s–1930s
Gus is joined by his brother, Ralph Rosen, and opens a location in Buffalo, New York. Together they grow the business, becoming trusted auctioneers for a wide network of buyers and sellers across the Midwest.
1940s
Irving Rosen, nephew of Gus and Ralph, joins the family business after leaving the service. After WWII ended Ralph Rosen and Associates began liquidating surplus machinery and complete plants that were operated by the Federal Government. After running a few sales out of the Dallas office, Irv saw opportunity to continue growing the business in the southern market.
'48
The newly married Irv Rosen and his wife move down to Dallas.
1950s
Continuing the business operations in Dallas, Irv convinced some bankruptcy trustees and banks to give him a chance as most people in Texas had never heard of auctions for anything except cattle. The way he conducted his business and the results of the auctions quickly earned him their trust and respect.
1960s
William McSpadden, a partner of the infamous Billie Sol Estes, found himself entangled in one of Texas' largest agricultural fraud scandals. McSpadden, operating grain storage and fertilizer businesses under the name Associated Growers, played a key role in the financial schemes involving falsified mortgages on nonexistent ammonia tanks. When the fraudulent operations unraveled, McSpadden’s businesses were forced into bankruptcy, leading to the liquidation of assets such as grain storage facilities, farming equipment, and fertilizer supplies. The bankruptcy sale marked the dramatic collapse of McSpadden’s operations and highlighted his deep involvement in the deceptive practices that shook the region’s agricultural industry.
'66
Rosen Public Auctions managed the liquidation of Golden State Arms Corporation, a prominent firearms importer and dealer based in Pasadena, California. The auction featured a wide array of military surplus firearms, including rifles, pistols, and shotguns, as well as ammunition and accessories. Held across multiple locations, the sale attracted collectors and dealers nationwide, with over 2,000 people in attendance.
'67
Medder’s Cattle Ranch: Known for their extravagant lifestyle—complete with luxury Cadillacs, high-end jewelry, and championship cattle—the couple’s financial collapse drew thousands to the auction.
1970s
The Dallas office becomes the epicenter of operations, with Rosen Systems expanding its focus to industrial and commercial liquidations. Irving builds strong relationships with dealers, bankers, and attorneys, solidifying the company’s position as a trusted name in the auction industry.
'70
Penny Rich Bra Company, filing Chapter XI bankruptcy, known for its custom-fitted lingerie and iconic bullet bras. The auction drew attention as it included sewing equipment, inventory of bras and lingerie, office furnishings, and proprietary designs. Once a leader in personalized lingerie, the auction marked the end of an era for Pennyrich, leaving behind a legacy of mid-century fashion and innovation.
'74
Mike Rosen joins his father Irving as the 3rd generation to enter the business.
'77
Wilson Line, a prominent tour boat company offering cruises along the Potomac River, filed for bankruptcy. Rosen Systems was hired by the Trustee to manage the auction of their major assets, including two 400-foot catamarans and various maintenance equipment. Despite the financial challenges of the time, Rosen Systems successfully facilitated the sale, with the City of New York purchasing the catamarans under strict auction terms.
'80
Rosen Systems oversaw the liquidation of Frigiking, a pioneer in aftermarket automobile air conditioning. The auction featured advanced manufacturing equipment, assembly line systems, refrigerant testing stations, and a large inventory of compressors, evaporators, and condensers, marking the end of an era for this industry leader.
'81
The Auto-Train Corporation, offering car-rail travel between Virginia and Florida, went bankrupt in 1981 due to high costs, accidents, and a failed expansion. Rosen Systems auctioned its assets, including a three-bedroom executive rail car, cabooses, and maintenance equipment. Although the original Auto-Train ended, its concept was revived by Amtrak in 1983 and continues successfully today.
'82
Rosen Systems managed the auction of assets from The John E. Mitchell Company, a historic Dallas manufacturer known for its contributions to cotton gin parts and WWII munitions. The sale featured industrial machinery, including lathes, mills, metalworking presses, and specialized tools for producing aftermarket automobile air conditioners. Legacy equipment from their wartime production efforts, such as foundry and forging machines, was also liquidated. The auction highlighted the company’s evolution and concluded its impactful legacy, with its iconic 1928 building later transformed into the Mitchell Lofts.
'93
U.S. Department of Energy's Superconducting Super Collider project in Waxahachie, Texas, was canceled due to funding issues, leaving behind significant assets. Rosen Systems was entrusted to manage the sale of surplus equipment, materials, and facilities, ensuring a fair and efficient liquidation process.
2000s
Rosen Systems pioneers online auctions, enabling clients to reach a global bidder base and expanding the company’s offerings. During this decade, Kyle Rosen joins his father Mike, becoming the fourth generation to carry on the Rosen legacy.
'07
EatZi’s, the upscale gourmet grocery store, bakery, and restaurant, closed its Houston and Atlanta locations, entrusting Rosen Systems to handle the liquidation of equipment and inventory. The sale was conducted in a single day, leveraging an online auction format with all items moved to warehouse storage. The auction featured professional-grade cooking and baking equipment, including mixers, slicers, convection ovens, and gas-fired kettles, as well as a large inventory of non-perishable food items like wines, sauces, and olive oils.
Unique Performance, renowned for producing high-performance replicas of classic muscle cars, including the Shelby GT500E Super Snake, authorized by Caroll Shelby. The auction featured a variety of assets, such as automobile body shells, automotive parts, and shop equipment, attracting significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts. The company faced legal and operational challenges, including allegations of using prison labor to refurbish vehicles and mismatched VIN numbers, which ultimately led to the company’s closure and subsequent liquidation by Rosen Systems.
2010s
The Rosen reputation grows nationally as the company serves clients across diverse industries, taking on large-scale projects and maintaining a focus on personalized service.
'11
Rosen’s relocation to Langford Street in West Dallas marked a significant expansion of their business services. With access to a spacious warehouse and yard, they introduced The Auction Exchange, a new monthly service. This offering allows machinery and equipment owners to conveniently consign their items directly through Rosen’s onsite warehouse, providing an efficient platform for buyers and sellers to connect.
'12
Quantum Performance developed an expertise in premium customization of cars such as the Shelby Mustang. When Rosen Systems liquidated the company it saw widespread interest, with some featured items such as 8 Versymatic 10,000 lb lifts, a Challenger lift and a DynoJet Dynamometer.
'15
LA Jeans and Sportswear, one of the largest domestic denim jeans manufacturers, at one time had more than 1,000 employees. The Company’s customers included brand names in fashion as well as private label manufacturers. Due to offshore competition and raising of minimum wage in California, this large ultra-modern plant was forced to close.
'17
Luke's Locker, a beloved Texas-based specialty retailer for running and fitness enthusiasts, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid challenging financial circumstances. Known for its dedication to the local running community and its curated selection of footwear, apparel, and gear, the company faced difficulties that led to the closure of several locations across the state.
'19
The closure of CertainTeed's Sherman, Texas, facility marked the end of an era for the company’s fiberglass insulation production at this location. As part of CertainTeed's strategic consolidation, the plant's assets were liquidated by Rosen Systems, offering state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment to businesses in need.
2020s
With over a century of experience, Rosen Systems continues to lead the way in online auction services, maintaining its reputation for fairness, trust, and exceptional results. Mike and Kyle Rosen work together to ensure the company remains a leader in the industrial auction industry.
'21
Justin Brands closed its operations after more than 4 decades of operations in Cassville, MO. The auction included industrial equipment and machinery used in the production of their iconic Western Footwear along with the 110,000 sq ft warehouse with about 12 acres of land.
'22
JUUL Labs, once a leading name in the e-cigarette industry, faced significant financial challenges due to mounting lawsuits, regulatory pressures, and declining sales. In 2022, the company avoided filing for bankruptcy through a last-minute cash infusion from investors but was forced to undertake drastic restructuring measures, including liquidating certain assets and laying off hundreds of employees.
2025
Today, Rosen Systems continues to innovate, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses navigating closures, liquidations, or surplus management. We invite you to explore our recent auctions, as well as case studies that highlight our proven track record of success. Discover how our expertise can support your goals by visiting our website or contacting our team.
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