Then and now: Evolution of South Shore lodge
Starting in the 1920s as Connolley’s Bijou at the South Shore, it evolved from tent cabins and beach to include this large white frame building between Highway 50 and the shoreline for lodging, dining, and recreation.
Before being razed in 1973, the building had a varied history, including Connolly’s Pancake House (note changed spelling) and lastly, Nel’s Tahoe Supply.
The demolition sign in this photo announces: “Timbercove Lodge, opening October 1st, 1973, on the Beach.”
This 2013 photo at the same location indicates the recent rebranding as Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe. I want to think those are the same two historic trees (behind) in both photos.
Connolly Beach still exists and is publicly operated by the city of South Lake Tahoe Parks and Recreation Department.
— Bill Kingman
Thanks for your efforts in posting these tidbits of history. I hope the city can find a way to work with teh Historical Society to capture more of our history and make it available to both locals and tourists.
Connolleys was also the Kon-Tiki before Nels. A great place to eat.
Does anyone have any photos of the old Globins Pier and Chalet at the end of Sacramento Ave ?? this is where Reagan Beach is now. At one time it was a hot spot on the South Shore and had Sea Plane rides, fishing boats, Speed Boat trips around the lake and entertainment like big bands and movies and a great place to eat. also had a Bar and a Coffee Shop.
Bill and FUN IN THE SUN,
Bill, I’m glad that the pier is still in use at Connelly’s old place. I already wrote earlier how my Dad and I got some boards off that building before it was demolished.
I hope your’e able to use some more of those photos from those old year books and newspaper I lent you. I’ll keep looking for some more hidden treasures of Old Tahoe that you can use for ” Then and Now”. Keep up the good work! It was great talking with you in person. It was a most a most enjoyable conversation!
FUN IN THE SUN, I don’t have any pictures of Globins pier but remember it well. I used to fish at the end of that pier as a kid hoping to catch the tagged trout that swam around the pilings. The fish were tagged by some govt. agency with the tag attached to its dorsal fin with the amount being $2, $5 or sometimes $10. Send in the tag and they send you a form. Fill out the paper work, send it back and you got a check in the mail. Sweet deal!
Take Care, OLS
These mini history lessons are so interesting ~ thanks Bill!
My parents worked there in the 1940,s, after my dad got home from the war. Dad was a bell hop and mom was a waitress. My grandma was a waitress at the little burger shack that sat on the beach behind Connollys. They had great stories of the famous people that stayed there.