The village of Dolton, Illinois, is racing to acquire and preserve the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV in a historic effort to honor its famous native son. While the Cape Cod-style house is currently up for auction by Paramount Realty, Dolton officials plan to purchase the property either through direct negotiation or by exercising eminent domain to maintain it as a free public historic site, highlighting the village’s pride and commitment to preserving its unique heritage.

Village’s Preservation Plans

Dolton, located in Thornton Township, Cook County, announced it will collaborate with the Chicago Archdiocese to save Pope Leo XIV’s brick-built childhood home, where he and his family lived for nearly 50 years. Village attorney Burt Odelson confirmed their intent to keep the home intact for public viewing, calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

A Family Home For Decades

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at 212 East 141st Place was purchased new in 1949 by Pope Leo XIV’s parents, with a monthly mortgage of $42. It served as the family home for decades, witnessing the humble beginnings of the first American pope, a fact that is currently not reflected by the house’s outward appearance.

Home Under Auction

Currently, the home is listed for sale and is set to be auctioned by Paramount Realty USA on June 18. The current owners, who renovated the house last year and initially listed it at $219,000, intended to flip the property for profit. Dolton’s efforts to negotiate a purchase have been unsuccessful as the owner is asking for too much money.

Eminent Domain as Backup

In response to stalled negotiations, Dolton has threatened to invoke eminent domain to acquire the property. Odelson sent a letter to Paramount Realty warning prospective buyers that any purchase would be temporary because the village plans to begin eminent domain proceedings shortly. Mayor Jason House emphasized, “If there is a government use for any property or location, then the government has the ability, through the law, eminent domain, to pay a fair market price for that space.”

Mayor’s Vision for Dolton

Mayor House highlighted the importance of the home to the village’s identity, stating it “brings just the recognition that great things do come out of Dolton.” He also cautioned potential bidders, saying their purchase would only be temporary.

Community and Historical Impact

The village’s plan to preserve the home aligns with broader efforts to rebrand Dolton, a community once plagued by political turmoil, by emphasizing its connection to Pope Leo XIV. The project is seen as a vital step toward historic preservation and boosting community pride.

Ongoing Auction Status

Despite the village’s actions, the auction remains active and scheduled to close next month. Paramount Realty has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the matter. Meanwhile, Dolton continues preparations to secure the property either through purchase or eminent domain, ensuring the home will ultimately be protected and accessible to the public.