Beloved antique store reopens after fire repairs

After closing Saturday and Sunday for repairs following an electrical fire, Western Trail Antiques and Marketplace reopened for regular business.

Store representatives told the Bulletin Monday that the store needed a small roof repair following an electrical fire that started in the store’s walls last Saturday.

“This business is an icon and an institution for the entire area,” said Eric Fraser, Chief of the Lakehsore Volunteer Fire Department. “We are grateful that it suffered only minor damage.”

Fraser continued, “Thank God that this fire broke out during open hours for had it been during the night, the outcome would have been catastrophic.”

Responding departments on the scene late Saturday morning around 11:15 a.m. included Bandera Fire and Rescue, the Lakeshore Volunteer Fire Department, Bandera EMS and the Bandera County Sheriff’s Office.

Fraser commented, “This was a true example of volunteerism at its best. People doing their Saturday chores, working, getting ready for the Christmas party, who drop everything to respond in times of need. This kind of person does it not for any glory, but because it is in the giving heart to serve others.”

By 12:09 p.m., the fire had been put out.

A special thanks to those who support our volunteer departments through donations and membership. For without your help, we simply can’t do the job,” said Fraser. “Thanks to God for everyone arriving safe, not getting hurt in the smoky building or on the roof, and the fire not being at night.”