The 1800s
November 12, 1805: Thomas McKean, Governor of the State of Pennsylvania, appoints Tristram B. Freeman to the office of auctioneer in Philadelphia.
1824: Freeman’s begins regular books sales.
1898: Company is renamed Samuel T. Freeman & Co.


FREEMAN'S
Since 1805, Freeman's have brought art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s, America’s oldest auction house, has connected collectors to extraordinary art and objects for over 220 years. Hosting more than 140 auctions annually across all major collecting categories, we offer in-person and online auctions supported by over 175 expert specialists who deliver exceptional service and market insight.
LOCATIONS
Find your nearest Freeman's office
140
Auctions Per Year on Average
88%
Average Percent of Lots Sold in 2024
97
Countries Represented by Bidders

Freeman's appreciate the power and transformative effect of art and design – an object can change a life. Our commitment to fostering an appreciation for rare and unique objects that enhance the lives of our clients is unwavering.

With four salerooms and 16 locations nationwide—including Chicago, Philadelphia, Palm Beach, and New York City—Freeman’s offers the largest coast-to-coast presence of any American auction house.

Freeman's is a trusted partner for trusts and estates professionals, wealth managers, and fiduciaries across the country, providing tailored strategies to manage and sell collections with discretion, expertise, and maximum results.

From landmark sales to record-setting results, Freeman’s has earned a reputation for integrity, service, and results. Whether you are buying, selling, or managing an estate, we will guide you through every stage of the collecting journey.

Get a complimentary valuation from one of our specialists.
Josef Šíma (Czech, 1891-1971) Europa, 1927
Sold for $1,522,000

Through the Centuries:
Formed through the merger of Freeman’s, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, and Cowan’s Auctions, our firm—Freeman’s—unites a vast national network, deep expertise, and nearly 220 years in the art market.
November 12, 1805: Thomas McKean, Governor of the State of Pennsylvania, appoints Tristram B. Freeman to the office of auctioneer in Philadelphia.
1824: Freeman’s begins regular books sales.
1898: Company is renamed Samuel T. Freeman & Co.

Freeman’s auction house moves to 1808 Chestnut Street—the country’s first purpose-built auction house.

Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is established in Chicago, Illinois

1995: Wes Cowan holds his first auction, establishing Cowan's Auctions in Cincinnati, Ohio
1997: Antiques Roadshow first airs—the program will star many of our company’s specialists over the years

2000: Freeman's forms a marketing alliance with UK based Lyon & Turnbull
2005: Freeman's celebrates its bi-centennial
2010: Hindman Auctioneers opens first regional office in Naples, Florida
2016: Freeman's transfers ownership to key Executive Directors
2019: Leslie Hindman Auctioneers and Cowan's Auctions announce their merger, forming Hindman Auctions

2024: Freeman's and Hindman Auctions merge to form Freeman's | Hindman
2024: New York gallery and saleroom opens on the Upper East Side at 32 East 67th Street
2025: The company celebrates its 220th anniversary and rebrands as Freeman’s Auctions and Appraisals


Executive Chairman

Chief Executive Officer

Executive Vice President, Deputy Chairman

Chief Operating Officer

Chief Marketing Officer

Vice Chairman Emeritus, Founder of Cowan's Auction

VP, Director of Finance

EVP, General Manager, Fine Art






Never Miss An Auction

Chicago Auction House & Gallery