A village in Chicago’s south suburbs is poised to purchase Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home after its board voted unanimously on Tuesday to take control of the property. Since the pope’s election, the small, two-story house on E. 142nd Place in Dolton, Illinois – around 20 miles south of the Windy City – has gained national attention, drawing visitors and attracting those interested in the leader’s early life.
Leo, known before as Cardinal Robert Prevost, was elected in May as the first American pope – a decision that stunned many in the United States who celebrated his ascension as a historic moment. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson called Leo’s election at the time as “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city.”
The Significance of Pope Leo XIV’s Election
Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost earned his bachelor’s in mathematics from Villanova and went on to receive his diploma in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. He later spent decades as a missionary, including 20 years in Peru, where he is a naturalized citizen and served as a bishop. His election as pope marked a significant milestone, not only for the Catholic Church but also for the American Catholic community.
The announcement comes as Dolton Village Board members expressed enthusiasm over the opportunity to own a piece of history. Calling the purchase a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” board members believe that gaining control over the house will allow them to “do it justice.”
Economic and Cultural Implications
Dolton Mayor Jason House emphasized the potential economic benefits, noting that the purchase will provide the village with the opportunity to re-evaluate enterprise and historic land zones and bring “state and congressional funds” into the town. Other trustees echoed this sentiment, citing the homes of Michael Jackson and Martin Luther King as examples of historic sites that have brought economic benefits to their communities.
However, officials acknowledged the concerns and complaints of residents who argue that increased traffic into the community has added further strain to already-dilapidated roads. “Purchasing the pope’s house is admirable,” longtime Dolton resident Mary Avent told CNN affiliate WBBM, “but with the state we’re in right now, I guess my concern is, do we have the money?”
Balancing Community Concerns and Opportunities
Trustee Edward Steave assured residents that their complaints were valid but asserted, “we can do this great thing at the same time.” The sale is likely to close within the next two weeks, according to the mayor. Photos posted on the village’s Facebook page late Tuesday show workers conducting repairs to the roof of the pope’s house, though it is unclear whether those repairs are being directed by the town.
Meanwhile, the community remains divided over the decision. While some see it as a chance to honor a prominent figure and boost local tourism, others worry about the financial implications. Avent highlighted the absence of a police and fire chief in Dolton, which she believes should take precedence over the purchase.
Looking Ahead
As Dolton moves forward with the acquisition, the village will need to balance the potential benefits of owning a historic site with the immediate needs of its residents. The move represents a broader trend of communities leveraging historical figures and landmarks for economic development, but it also underscores the challenges of managing limited resources.
According to sources close to the board, the village is exploring options for funding and support from both state and federal levels to ensure the project’s success. The outcome of this purchase could serve as a model for other communities looking to capitalize on their unique historical assets.
As the sale nears completion, all eyes will be on Dolton to see how this small suburb navigates the complexities of preserving history while addressing the present needs of its community.
