Carson City's Jack's Bar being reborn

Jack's Bar, a Carson City landmark for more than a century, is getting a second life with an old name, but resuming its familiar role in the capitol city's history.

Jack's Bar, which has anchored the corner across from the legislature for more than a century, is being restored and will be reopened.

The structure--built of native stone quarried in nearby Mound House-- was built in 1899 and was originally called the 'Bank Saloon.'

Once a popular watering spot for thirsty legislators and lobbyists, it's been closed for decades and lapsed into decay. The roof leaked, floors rotted and pigeons took up residence, leaving droppings a foot deep in some spots.

The

--a construction industry organization--bought the building, and is renovating it to use it as its Carson City headquarters.

Monday, with interior gutted, asbestos and droppings removed, the public was invited for a first look. A crowd gathered in its rear parking lot to salute its resurrection with a few drinks and leaving with commemorative square nails.

When reopened the building will include offices and a conference room, but will also once again be a bar, carrying its original name--the Bank Saloon.