Riverside’s Historic Gem: A 1928 Spanish Colonial Revival

The story of 3456 Ramona Drive, Riverside, CA 92506, is one of architectural brilliance, historical significance, and timeless preservation. This extraordinary Spanish Colonial Revival home, designed by renowned architect Henry L.A. Jekel in 1928, stands as a testament to his legacy and the rich heritage of Riverside’s historic Wood Streets neighborhood.

Architectural and Historical Significance

Designed by Henry Jekel, a prodigious architect known for his early work on steel-skeleton skyscrapers in Eastern cities like New York and Boston, this home reflects his pivot to the California Style, particularly the Spanish Colonial Revival, after he relocated to Riverside in 1921. Jekel, who established his architectural studio on Magnolia Avenue, brought his meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision to Southern California, creating iconic structures that continue to define Riverside’s aesthetic. The home at 3456 Ramona Drive, designated as Riverside Cultural Heritage Board landmark #116, is a prime example of his work, showcasing signature elements such as original stained glass windows, intricate wood detailing, arched doorways, and twisting exterior columns—hallmarks of Jekel’s distinctive style.

Built for Ernest and Louise Clarke, the home carries additional historical weight. Ernest was the longtime editor of the Riverside Daily Press, and Louise, one of Riverside’s first female doctors, helped found Riverside Community Hospital. Their legacy adds a layer of cultural significance, embedding the home in the city’s social and intellectual history. The property’s inclusion in a 2016 coffee table book about Riverside’s landmarks, as well as its recognition by owners Pat and Anita Silvestri, underscores its status as a cherished piece of local heritage.

Design and Features

Spanning 2,830 square feet, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence (with an office that could serve as a fourth bedroom) is a masterpiece of preservation and thoughtful modernization. The interior boasts nearly all its original windows and accoutrements, meticulously maintained by its current owners for over 30 years and by generations before. Key features include:

• Original Jekel Stained Glass Windows: These intricate works of art are a focal point, blending color and craftsmanship.
• Intricate Wood Detailing: From arched doorways to custom moldings, the woodwork reflects Jekel’s attention to detail.
• Refinished Hardwood Flooring: Preserving the home’s historic charm while ensuring durability.
• Mills Act Enrollment: The property benefits from the Mills Act historic home tax-saving program, which incentivizes preservation by reducing property taxes.

The exterior is equally enchanting, with a meandering pool winding through the grounds, complete with a charming footbridge—a feature that enhances the estate’s storybook allure. Mature landscaping, including fruit trees, flowering parkway gardens, and curated flora, frames the property, offering privacy and vibrant natural beauty.

The Wood Streets Neighborhood

Located in the historic Wood Streets neighborhood, 3456 Ramona Drive is part of a cohesive residential area known for its Craftsman, Spanish Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and Colonial Revival homes. Developed after 1913, when a fill across the Tequesquite Arroyo connected Magnolia Avenue to downtown Riverside, the neighborhood became a desirable middle-class enclave due to its proximity to the city center. The Wood Streets remain a stronghold of Riverside’s architectural and cultural identity, with 3456 Ramona Drive as one of its crown jewels.

Current Status and Legacy

Described as a “living masterpiece” and an “irreplaceable piece of Riverside’s architectural history,” it offers a rare opportunity to own a landmark property that blends elegance, heritage, and modern functionality. The home’s inclusion in the Riverside Unified School District, with nearby schools like Pachappa Elementary, Central Middle, and Polytechnic High, adds to its appeal for families.

A Critical Perspective

The Mills Act tax benefits help offset ownership costs, but potential buyers must weigh the responsibilities of maintaining a landmark property, as significant changes require approval from the Riverside Cultural Heritage Board. Additionally, Jekel’s destruction of most of his architectural archives before his death means that homes like 3456 Ramona Drive are among the few tangible remnants of his California legacy, making their preservation all the more critical.

Conclusion

The story of 3456 Ramona Drive is one of vision, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy. From its creation by Henry Jekel in 1928 for the influential Clarke family to its careful stewardship by owners like Pat and Anita Silvestri, this Spanish Colonial Revival home remains a beacon of Riverside’s architectural and cultural heritage. Its blend of historic charm and modern upgrades, set within the picturesque Wood Streets neighborhood, makes it a unique and irreplaceable treasure. For those who value history and artistry, 3456 Ramona Drive is not just a home—it’s a piece of Riverside’s soul.