Ranshaw House named a Historic Place

The Samuel and Emma A. Ranshaw House, located immediately north of the North Liberty Community Center, is a century old building purchased by the City of North Liberty in the early 2000s.
After the purchase and with support from the community, the City of North Liberty partnered with the Johnson County Historical Preservation Committee, in September 2011, to begin the application process for the National Register of Historic Places. The partnership with the Johnson County Historical Preservation Committee, made it possible to receive grant money from the state to aid throughout the application process.

On September 26, 2012, the Ranshaw House was listed on the National Register of Historic Place. With the honor comes eligibility for addition grant money which may be used towards operating costs and future renovations.

The property has undergone restorations over the last year. Phase One, which was completed summer 2011, included a new roof. Phase Two is currently underway and consists of exterior repairs: windows, siding and paint; this phase is expected to be finished this fall. The City Council recently passed Phase Three which will consist of renovations to the flooring, walls, electric wiring, heating and cooling. The interior overhaul is set to begin next year.

According to Tracey Mulcahey, Assistant City Administrator, “Ideally, Phase Three will be completed next summer. It would be nice if the grand opening of the house could coincide with North Liberty’s centennial celebration.” Once complete, it’s likely the Ranshaw House will serve as a visitor and history center.