For 24 years, E. C. Byerly was the Clerk of Court in Davidson County. When he retired from this position, he thought the real estate and auction business would be a good way for him to still make a living and be involved in the community. In 1945, E. C. and his youngest son, Manly Byerly, set up their office behind the old courthouse in what was then called "lawyer's row."

In the early 1950's E. C. Byerly's oldest son, Jim Byerly, came to work with the family. Since then they have auctioned everything from farms, river and lake property to cattle and herds of buffalo. They have sold over 85% of the business property uptown throughout this period. In giving back to the community, the company has done hundreds of charity auctions over the years helping to raise millions of dollars for numerous organizations. The company is active with Hospice, Ducks Unlimited, the Deems May Foundation and many various educational programs.

In 1997 Manly Byerly was named Realtor of the year. It has been a pleasure and a privilege for him to have served over 55 years here in the real estate and auction business. With the help of his stepson, Reynolds Shoaf, an auctioneer and real estate broker, the business will be able to continue to serve the community which has given so many memorable events and good times to all the employees here at Manly Byerly Realty and Auction Company.