The grand opening of the Repetto Vault was held on Friday night, Sept. 18, 2026, serving as the kickoff to the Annual Wine Walk. The celebration was twofold: it introduced the community to Eureka’s newest gathering space and offered a chance to thank the many people who help make the Wine Walk possible each year.
The event also gave residents a first look at the latest project from Eureka Restoration. Garney Damele, president and founder of Eureka Restoration Enterprise, purchased the Charles Lautenschlager Building in 2018 after Nevada State Bank moved into Raine’s Market and placed the historic property up for sale. The acquisition proved to be a fortunate moment for Eureka. As longtime businesses close and the town faces economic challenges, Garney continues to invest in building, restoring, and renovating properties with the hope of attracting new businesses and supporting a revitalized local economy.
In 2019, she leased out portions of the building, bringing two much-needed businesses to town. Economy Drug now occupies the front of the building, while The Eureka Depot, with its excellent coffee and specialty drinks, operates in the back. Though the Depot’s side entrance can be easy to miss for travelers, the charming maroon awnings make the long side of the building warm and inviting.
With the addition of Eureka’s new speakeasy, The Repetto Vault, the basement of the building is now fully utilized, and what an incredible transformation it is. The name comes from the impressive built-in vault located at the front of the building, a remnant from its days as a bank. The Repetto family were the last owners before the property became the bank building, and the name emerged from many brainstorming sessions.
While speakeasies rose to fame in the 1920s as clandestine alcohol establishments during Prohibition, the Repetto Vault is no secret. It is now available as a rental space for small gatherings and special events. Community members interested in booking the venue can contact Garney directly.
Eureka Restoration, and Garney Damele in particular, deserve immense gratitude for the dedication, vision, and hard work invested in preserving and revitalizing this community. The Repetto Vault is yet another example of how her efforts continue to breathe new life into Eureka.
