Renzel, Ernest & Emily, House
historic place
The Ernest and Emily Renzel House, located at 120 Arroyo Way in San Jose's Naglee Park neighborhood, was built in 1939. This residence served as the home of businessman and civic leader Ernest H. Renzel Jr. and his wife, Emily. Designed by local architect Chester Root, the house is an early example of the Ranch architectural style in the region. It blends traditional ranch elements with modernist features. Ernest Renzel was a significant figure in San Jose's history. He was elected to the San Jose City Council in 1944 and served as council president, effectively mayor, from 1945 to 1946. He is widely recognized as the "Father of San Jose International Airport." Renzel led the efforts in the late 1930s to secure land and funding for the airport, which opened in 1949. The house was designated a City Landmark by San Jose in 2008. It was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. This site is historically important for its architecture and its association with Ernest Renzel's contributions to San Jose's civic development and aviation.