By Collin Breaux
The grand opening night for 1901 On Main–a new business in Downtown Chipley where people can order wine and food– on Friday, April 12, saw plenty of patrons enjoying a fresh spot to mingle and enjoy local nightlife.
The new wine spot at 803 Main Street is owned by married couple Steve and Tammy Ayers.
“We thought for a few years we wanted to bring something to Chipley that brought the community together,” Tammy said. “We had several options. We came across this building. It had been on my mind for about four years, so we were able to–within weeks–purchase it.”
The 1901 part of the name is because Chipley was incorporated that year, according to Tammy.
“We thought that meant something to the community,” she said. “We love wine. We love experience and what it does for people to get together and relax and enjoy a glass of wine and communicate back and forth more.”
Wendi Lewis, their daughter who works at 1901 On Main, said the world and everything is changing–including Washington County, which is no longer a dry county and now allows the sale and serving of alcohol after a majority of voters approved allowing it in 2022.
“It’s local. It’s historic,” Lewis said. “It’s full circle, coming back around to where it meets the new age.”
Wine offerings include sweet whites and dry reds, including one named after Chipley which features blackberry and blueberry flavors. Craft beer is also available.
“My great great-grandmother used to make wine on the stove and serve it to my great great-grandfather every night,” Tammy said. “They were full-blooded Italian, which comes from my dad’s side.”
The food menu includes a charcuterie board, flatbreads, and wings.
“We just wanted to do heavy hors d’oeuvres,” Tammy said. “Just appetizers.”
1901 On Main also has live music.
“We just want everybody to come out and enjoy and bring their friends and have a good experience,” Tammy said.
Check out the 1901 On Main page on Facebook for up-to-date information.
Staff Report 
Jim Saunders