By Lisa Carolin
Complimentary champagne was flowing on Jan. 26 when the newly opened Withington’s store in downtown Chelsea celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce.
Withington’s is located at 112 N. Main St., and officially opened its doors on Dec. 18, 2021. Owner Jay Friend says that wine and beer are the main items sold along with non-alcoholic drinks and gift items.
Friend and his wife Katy and their two children moved to Chelsea close to three years ago. He’s been in the wine business for 20 years.
As far as the name of the business goes, Friend explained, “The name ‘Withington’s’ comes from a family name on my mother’s side, passed down over many generations. There’s also a distant relation to William H. Withington, who was captain of the 1st Union Infantry during the Civil War, and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his efforts in the Battle of Bull Run.”
He says Withington’s has received great support from the community, and that he’s happy to bring in any wine or beer people are looking for.
