Watterson Brands of Bluffton, SC has announced the purchase of 120 East Buckeye. Former Ada resident Billy Watterson, CEO of Watterson Brands; and local resident Troy Erickson, COO of Ohio State Hemp, plan to renovate the existing structure and create a 7,000 square-foot brewery with the name Old Route 69 Brewery.

The business will offer patrons craft beer, food and family-inclusive entertainment. The brewery is slated to have 5 craft beers upon launch and to employ about 20 people.

Watterson and Erickson expect to break ground in spring 2022, with an estimated completion date of early 2023.

“Ada’s evolution presents an interesting opportunity for our new business to thrive while providing a venue with the entertainment capacity of a larger city. Our aim is to become a destination for the region, a gathering space where high quality food and beverages are only out-matched by charm,” said Watterson.

The two entrepreneurs are lifelong friends and have spent the last 3 years developing their business plan for Old Route 69 Brewery. “Billy and I grew up in Ada and want to pay tribute to the close-knit community that shaped our vision and values. Our plans include an indoor lounge, bar and seated dining areas, and a separate brewery manufacturing space. The outdoor area will be more of a traditional beer garden, and will be available for private parties,” said Erickson.

The East Buckeye addres was formerly the sales, service and showroom location of Cole Motor Sales, a business that served the community for 113 years.