Emma Bailey

Emma Bailey (née Parascandola; March 6, 1910 – September 3, 1999) was an American auctioneer and author, credited with being the first American woman auctioneer. She held her first auction in Brattleboro, Vermont, on May 12, 1950, as a way to supplement her family's income. In 1952 she became the first woman admitted to the National Auctioneers Association. She continued auctioneering for nearly 20 years and wrote a book about her experiences, entitled Sold to the Lady in the Green Hat, before retiring in the late 1960s.

Early life Emma Parascandola was born March 6, 1910, in New York City. She had two brothers and two sisters, and completed her schooling in Newark, New Jersey. She married Eli J. Bailey in 1932.

Career In 1945, Emma Bailey moved to Brattleboro, Vermont, with her husband and two children. In April 1950, Bailey placed the following advertisement in the local newspaper:The Bailey Auction Barn on Black Mountain Road is prepared to handle auction sales. Courteous and efficient handling of all consignments, large or small. We will sell anything—from a plate to an estate, signed: Emma Bailey, Brattleboro's Woman Auctioneer. Bailey sold a wide range of items, including antiques, farm tools, books and household furniture,

In 1952, after applying to the National Auctioneers Association, Bailey was accepted as the first female member of the Association. Her early sales were sometimes disrupted by men who "gathered in front of the podium and heckled."