DOLTON, ILLINOIS — A small brick house on East 142nd Place that once quietly stood in a quiet Dolton neighborhood is now at the center of national attention. The Village of Dolton has voted unanimously to purchase the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV, turning the unassuming property into a symbol of civic pride and religious heritage.
The village board approved the acquisition Tuesday night, citing the opportunity as a rare chance to secure a piece of global history rooted in their own backyard.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Dolton Mayor Jason House. “We can either seize this moment and move it forward, or let that moment go to an investor.”
The mayor expressed hope that Dolton residents would benefit from the visibility and development potential tied to the home of a sitting pope.
A Home with Global Significance
The home, located at 212 E. 142nd Place, is where Pope Leo XIV — known before his papacy as Father Prevost — spent part of his early life after being born in Chicago. Since the announcement of his local roots, the neighborhood has seen an uptick in traffic as out-of-town visitors stop by to pray and take photos.
According to CBS News Chicago, a local roofing company volunteered to replace the aging roof free of charge ahead of the village’s vote. Dolton officials now plan to convert the street into a historical block centered around the Pope’s former residence, possibly acquiring neighboring properties for further development.
Community Divided on Priorities
While the symbolic and cultural importance of the purchase is hard to ignore, several residents voiced concerns about the timing and cost.
During the public comment session, Dolton resident Ryan Reese emphasized the need to balance legacy projects with current needs.
“We need to be mindful of addressing the issues the city has while trying to address the debts and lawsuits,” Reese said.
Others, like longtime resident Mary Avent, noted that critical vacancies in departments like police and sanitation remain unresolved, questioning the village’s financial priorities.
Practicing Catholic Annette Mauro acknowledged the significance, but expressed concern over the current state of the property:
“It doesn’t even look like what it used to look like,” she said, casting doubt on its historical authenticity.
Mayor Assures Residents: ‘We’ll Fund Both’
In response to skepticism, Mayor House assured residents that the acquisition would not divert funds from infrastructure or public services. He insisted that state and congressional backing would help fund the restoration and protection of the home.
“We are fully committed and will be doing both,” House said, reiterating that the pope’s home could be a gateway for broader economic support.
The village attorney confirmed plans for 24/7 police protection at the property and stated that the village aims to acquire more homes on the block to create a historical district.
The current listing price was just under $200,000, but the auction reserve was raised to $250,000, with closing expected within two weeks. The final purchase price has not yet been disclosed.
A Hope for Neighborhood Revival
Some residents said they’re cautiously optimistic — hoping the site can provide jobs, tourism, and a positive identity for Dolton.
“I would like to see the community have more jobs and income,” said resident Donna Sanga David.
“Poverty is a major issue here, and maybe this can help us grow.”
Do you think Dolton made the right move by investing in Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home? Should the village focus more on historical preservation or daily civic needs? Share your views at chicagosuburbanfamily.com — we want to hear your take on this historic decision.
