The upcoming auction of CanaDay's Apparel Ltd. scheduled for August 22, 2024, represents a pivotal moment for Moose Jaw's industrial history and the broader collector community. Established in 1954, CanaDay's served as a cornerstone of the local economy for over six decades, employing more than 300 residents at its peak while supplying major Canadian retailers including Hudson Bay, Woodward's, and Mark's Work Warehouse with high-quality men's clothing. The company's closure and subsequent auction through DirectAuctions.ca marks the end of an era for one of the city's most iconic businesses.
The auction features an extensive collection of 916 items spanning industrial equipment and nostalgic memorabilia from both the main plant at 115 Coronation Drive and the popular Pic-a-Pant outlet at 429 River Street West. Bidders will have access to sewing machines, pressure rollers, industrial washers, chairs, and vintage exit signs that collectively tell the story of Canadian manufacturing excellence. Murray King, a former merchandising agent who dedicated nearly 60 years to the company, expressed mixed emotions about the event, noting both relief from recent economic burdens and pride in the company's operational legacy.
The significance of this auction extends beyond local boundaries, attracting attention from national figures like Jeff Schwarz, known as The Liquidator from reality television, who emphasized the substantial impact of a Moose Jaw business employing over 300 people. Meryll Dreyer, COO of Direct Liquidations, highlighted the historical importance of preserving and distributing these pieces of Moose Jaw's heritage through the auction process. The event serves as both a practical liquidation of assets and a cultural preservation effort, allowing collectors and history enthusiasts to own tangible pieces of Canadian industrial history.
Practical details for participation include a preview day on August 21st from 10 AM to 5 PM CST at both Moose Jaw locations, with the main auction commencing August 22nd at 10 AM CST. Commercial property viewings are available from July 24th through August 20th for potential investors interested in repurposing the historic manufacturing spaces. The global shipping capability for auction items ensures international accessibility, potentially attracting buyers worldwide interested in Canadian manufacturing artifacts. Interested parties can view items and register online, making this historic event accessible to a broad audience while preserving the legacy of a company that shaped Moose Jaw's economic landscape for generations.
