Vintage Buffalo: From flooded thrift store to fun boutique

On January 23, 2017, snow caused the roof collapse of the historic building that housed not only the Green Tahoe Market and Liquor Store on Harrison Avenue in South Lake Tahoe, but also the Lucky Dog Thrift Store.

When the roof collapsed, the sprinkler system was set off and the water main broke, sending gallons of water through the stores in the building. Clean up and building repairs are still underway.

Not waiting for six months to see if her store could reopen, Jessica Marks decided to salvage what she could from the store she ran for over three years, and leave Lucky Dog behind.

What has come out of that is the Vintage Buffalo Resale Shop at 2218 Lake Tahoe Boulevard in South Lake Tahoe.

As one steps through the front door they know they're not in a typical resale shop. Not only is everything vintage and fun to look at, it smells great and the store dog, six-month old Blu, is there to greet everyone (if he can pull himself away from the fireplace).

Jessica took the month of March to get the shop set up and has now been open two weeks. Word is getting out that the Vintage Buffalo is open, and many are stopping by because they saw the sign hanging out in front and intrigue brought them in.

The words "resale shop" define the rooms. She carries vintage clothing, hats and shoes, but not everyday thrift-store finds. There are name brands, jewelry, tools, lots of Marilyn Monroe, antique vanities, screens, glassware, paintings and CDs. About 40 percent of what is inside the shop comes from locals who sell vintage items to Jessica.

The name "Vintage Buffalo" comes from her passion for Native American treasures. Buffalo hides were traded by Indians, and she'll trade, barter, buy and sell. Jessica carries Native American pieces and is always looking for quality items to purchase. She heads to San Francisco and Sacramento to search for treasures just right for her Tahoe shop.

A percentage of purchases go to help the animals in South Lake Tahoe, which are Jessica's passion. The Lake Tahoe Humane Society consigns some items at the store as well as having a cash donation box and Jessica helps low income people with pet needs.

No price is set in stone at Vintage Buffalo, and depending on how long they've had an item in the store, a deal may be made. "I love to negotiate," said Jessica.

Vintage Buffalo is open Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is closed Sunday/Monday. Their phone number is 775-671-0142. For those who wish to make an appointment to sell items, text that number. Clothing and other household donations are not accepted.