The Wild Rose: a shop with a little something for everyone

by Crystal Nay

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Yes, the “selfie bathroom” is real. 

And yes, you’ve probably not seen a better painted restroom, which will make you want to take a photo. 

But, this old-timey-burger-hop-turned-gallery gift shop offers a range of great art and gifts, much of which is handmade by area locals and curated by the shop’s owner herself, Rose. Standing as a main attraction at the west end of Jamestown’s Main Street, The Wild Rose has a little something for everyone. 

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For the Jewelry Lover

Jewelry at The Wild Rose is handcrafted by local jewelry artisans. Earrings, necklaces, brooches, and more are on display around the store. Some particularly notable pieces are the Native American-inspired beaded earrings, featuring colorful patterns and designed with the traditional length reaching to the collarbone. 

Others feature precious metals and stones, as well as the infinite colors of glass. 

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For the Kids

Whether you’re passing through on your way up the mountain or over to Yosemite, or you’re a local looking for a child’s gift, you’ll find some great traditional options. 

Wooden trains, logging trucks, and other vehicles are made by a local woodworking artist. The Vacation Doll is a classic-style toy ready to join in on the adventures. These dolls are machine washable, handmade locally, and each have their own name, storybook bound in a traditional Japanese style, and a backpack containing a set of pajamas just for them.

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For the Art Enthusiast

There’s a tremendous amount of artistic talent throughout the local foothills, and The Wild Rose is a fantastic and casual gallery. From paintings of chickens or horses, to photos of bears, landscapes at dusk, or the nostalgic steam locomotive, the walls are lined with images featuring both the untamed wildlife and rustic country living of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Also, check out the unique copper sculptures, strikingly beautiful pottery glazed in rich colors, and the impressive stained glass panels that capture the Wild West during the Gold Rush. 

Check in from time to time, as the separate room in the back of the shop often has rotating gallery exhibits spotlighting particular artists.

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For the Tea & Coffee Drinker

Tucked in a little nook near the register are a couple of shelves featuring an array of teapots and mugs. You don’t have to wait to have a nice cup of tea or coffee, though, as they’re served right there in the newly added espresso bar, called The Wild Roast. (Try the ever-popular Mexican mocha!)

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For a Bit of Decor

If you like the solid wood slab display shelves in the shop, you’re in luck. Many of them are actually handmade locally and available for your home. You’ll also find one-of-a-kind painted high top tables, often featuring the colorful and mesmerizing swirls of an acrylic pour. For wine enthusiasts who enjoy entertaining, check out the glass tabletop wine and stemware rack.

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For the Collector of Curios 

There are plenty of unique things at The Wild Rose. Sure, you can find clever sconces, user-friendly and easy-to-clean birdhouses, and colorful dream catchers. But, what about an owl made out of pinecones? Have you seen the curious little clay characters affectionately known as Thumbies? There’s an extensive collection of these figures, seemingly existing in their own little world, and just about the size of a thumb. Their fellow clay-made neighbors serve as pots for small plants. 

Spotted around the store are gourd instruments that mimic the sound of a storm. Check it out here.

For more information, visit The Wild Rose website, Facebook, or Instagram.