Historic Property #5: J.L. Neighbor - Dr. L.B. Rantz House

Address: 2955 Coloma Street

Year Built: 1909

Architect: Unknown

Builder: Robert Dodds

Architectural Style: Craftsman Bungalow

Classified as a Craftsman Bungalow, this home exemplifies a style that dominated California residential architecture from 1903 until 1915. Constructed by local contractor Robert Dodds, the two story home originally featured wood shingle siding, a screened rear porch, and a prominent eight foot front porch. In 1909, the interior was praised as thoroughly modern, boasting eight rooms, spacious closets, and a large, airy bathroom. A wide front vestibule opened via pocket doors into a spacious 20’ x 14’ living room, which flowed seamlessly into a den and a dining room.

Original owner Professor Jacob L. Neighbor commissioned the home in August of 1909. A prominent educator, Neighbor served as Principal of El Dorado High School and was highly regarded by students, who dedicated the 1912 school annual yearbook, Pine Breezes, to him. Tragically, his career was cut short in 1916 by a total loss of hearing. Advised to seek a drier climate, the Neighbors relocated to San Francisco and sold the property to Annie Day.

Courtesy: El Dorado County Historical Museum

In August of 1920, Dr. Lester B. Rantz and his wife Edith purchased the home. A World War I veteran, Dr. Rantz was a prominent Placerville dentist who opened his practice in 1919. He was deeply involved in civic life as a charter member of the Placerville Lions Club, maintaining long standing memberships in the American Legion, El Dorado Lodge F. and A.M., Knights Templar, and the Shriners. In the mid 1950s, Dr. Rantz structurally altered the bungalow by enclosing the front porch to create his new dental office. Relocating his practice from Main Street, he served patients from this home office until his retirement. Dr. Rantz passed away at the residence in 1975 at the age of 80. Edith remained in the home until her death in 1978, after which the property passed to new owners who continued its legacy of preservation.