
RMC Spring Auction
Fri, Apr 14
|RMC.BetterWorld.org
Online auction of trail signs, a map, and experiences to benefit the RMC.


Time & Location
Apr 14, 2023, 12:00 PM EDT – Apr 24, 2023, 10:00 PM EDT
RMC.BetterWorld.org
About the Event
Preview items at rmc.betterworld.org.
Trail signs are an iconic part of the hiking experience. It can be easy to take them for granted, especially on trails we are familiar with. However, for those who have gotten turned around, or find themselves rapidly descending from the alpine zone in bad weather, these simple signs can bring about an overwhelming sense of relief. Have you ever found yourself taking a break at an intersection wondering how they get there, or how many hikers they have guided over the years?
Over time, trail signs will become weathered, obtain dramatic scars from ice storms, or be otherwise damaged. Others are rendered obsolete due to trail reconstruction. When this occurs, volunteers begin the process of creating replacements. Every step from sourcing the right wood to carefully stenciling and routing the letters leaves little room for error. When the signs are finally painted and drilled, they are hiked out to their designated intersections, and installed for many years of service. The old signs they are replacing are hiked down and brought to the Randolph Mountain Club workshop.
The Randolph Mountain Club sign auction is a great opportunity to support the efforts of the club and our trails and shelters. Beyond that, it is your chance to take home a piece of history. For the nostalgic hiker or outdoor enthusiast, there is no finer gift.
Many thanks to John Phinney and Carl Herz for photographing and providing descriptions for the trail signs.
Our trail signs and memorabilia are priceless. But our auction isn’t free…
We haven’t listed dollar values for our auction items because they’re worth what you think they are. The trail signs in particular may remind you of a special summer, bring back happy memories of your favorite trail, or hiking with your favorite people. But there are costs associated with running an auction, and you can help the RMC with these.
The RMC has partnered with BetterWorld as our auction platform. BetterWorld is specifically focused on fundraising for nonprofits, and returns 100% of donations to the RMC.
Other online marketplaces, like eBay, take up to 25% of each transaction amount. BetterWorld also does not sell donor data; your information is kept entirely secure. But there are costs associated with running the auction—security, support, web hosting and maintenance—that BetterWorld incurs. Auction bidders will be given the option to make a small contribution to defray these, enabling the club to receive the full bid amount. Additionally, you’re likely aware of processing fees (2.9% + 0.30) that credit cards charge the RMC for each transaction. You can help by adding this fee to your bid.
When you bid on an item, you’ll see options to help with these costs if you so choose.
We hope you’ll participate in this year’s auction, as a fun way to repurpose treasured mementos of our times on the trails while raising needed funds for the Randolph Mountain Club! Happy Spring and happy bidding!