In the 1970s and 1980s, one of the “It” places to eat was the Cabin in the Sky up on the Comstock. The Cabin was the place to see and be seen. This was the place for the view, the steaks and the drinks. And, occasionally, one might catch a glimpse of the owner, Joe Conforte (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Conforte).
Between the dining room, the bar and the dance floor, the Cabin was large enough to host any occasion – wedding receptions, wakes, holiday parties and the annual Fireman’s Dinner. The Cabin is located on the road into Virginia City and people from Reno, Carson City and beyond made their way to the Cabin.
Contributing to the ambiance of the Cabin was the stonework of Randall Wungnema. He was responsible for the brickwork around the fireplace and mirror. He was also responsible for the stonework in the bar.
The Cabin has not been operational since 2004 and has sat vacant since that time. The Comstock Mining Company now owns the Cabin. Officials at the mining company graciously allowed the Wungnema family and friends to tour the Cabin in 2017.
Once in the door, the first thing we noticed was the fireplace. One of the owners painted the bricks a dull brown and covered the paint with a gold, glittery finish. This was not the fireplace the family remembered. The Wungnemas were disappointed that one of their father’s creations had been mistreated so.
Our apologies for the photographs. The power was off at the Cabin and these are the best photographs that we were able to take with flash photographs. Think about this – if the stonework looks this good in subpar lighting, think how it looks in real life!
However, all was not lost. The stonework in the bar had been left intact. We could see the precision and artistry with which the stones had been cut, polished and set. To us, this is a masterpiece of stone working. We consider it one of Randall’s finest creations.
Now, some people might take offense to the glitter and glitz among the stones. Kindly consider who commissioned the bar and remember that the bar is a reflection of Joe’s personality and taste. The glitter and glitz does not take away from the superb workmanship that went into the stonework.
On the cold winter nights, people would gather in front of the fireplace and visit with one another over serious adult beverages.
During the hot summer days on the high desert, people sought refuge from the heat at the bar, enjoying cool drinks. The Cabin and its interior brick and stonework contributed to the community. They have their place in Nevada history and deserve to be protected and enjoyed by the community once more.
The Comstock Mining Company assured us that it has no plans to demolish the Cabin. Indeed, there is talk of converting the Cabin into a tourist center. This is a fabulous idea! Naturally, we had our own thoughts on the restoration. We suggested that the paint be removed from the fireplace and that the bar be used to provide refreshments to the tourists and locals alike.
If you have a chance, drive by the Cabin, stop to take in the view and pray that the building and its remarkable stonework is preserved for future generations to enjoy.