Ground was broken in an historic manor as the owners of Liberty Pole Spirits raised a liberty pole to signify their expansion plans are underway. The popular rye whiskey distillers who have a location on Maiden Street in Washington will build a second facility in North Strabane Township near the casino in an effort to produce more product and hopefully expand beyond their current area of western Pennsylvania. Owners Jim and Ellen Hough are excited about the project. Ellen considers them blessed to have such a popular product that the expansion is needed. Jim says that on day one, production capacity will be tripled. Capacity could increase to six times current levels with the addition of more fermenting equipment down the line. They will also be offering entertainment. Small bite food will be served and a large patio area will be able to accommodate food trucks and music. Construction on the project will begin on Tuesday with the hopes that the more than 14,000 square foot entertainment and production destination will be complete in March of 2023. The Hough’s say their Maiden Street location will remain operation for now.