FROM ADA ICON - Cole Motor Sales, a four-generation-owned Ada family business will close on Sept. 20, according to Cathy Cole.

Selling Fords, at 120 E. Buckeye, Ada, the company began assembling Model Ts in the 1910s that were shipped in parts to Ada on the railroad.

Ada became a “Ford” town and the large number of Ford vehicles in Ada today reflect the Cole Motor presence.

“The Cole family and employees would like to say a big ‘thank you’ for your business, past and present for the past 113 years. You came in as a customer and left as a friend,” she said, added that it has been an honor and pleasure to serve the community and surrounding areas. We appreciate all the loyal support through the years.”

The business  started by Charles Cole in 1909. His son, Robert, was the second-generation owner. Robert’s son, Steve, joined the company in 1960. Steve’s daughter, Cathy, has managed the business for the past 17 years.

Today, Cole’s has seven employees and one part-time employee. Cathy said that the family is resigning the Ford franchise and will eventually sell the property.

Charles M. Cole founded the company and built the present garage in 1915. He sold automobiles, trucks and tractors to customers within 100 miles of Ada, and traveled to Columbus to pick up his new cars.

The front showroom was added in 1947.  In 1961 the agency took on the Mercury franchise, which was later discontinued.

In 1964 Cole’s purchased the lot west of the dealership and added the parking area for new and used cars. It later purchased the property at the corner of Main and East Buckeye for car sales.