
A village in Chicago’s south suburbs is on the brink of purchasing Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home, following a unanimous vote by its board on Tuesday. The small, two-story house located on E. 142nd Place in Dolton, Illinois, approximately 20 miles south of Chicago, has garnered national attention since the pope’s election. The property has become a magnet for visitors eager to explore the early life of the first American pope, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, who was elected in May.
Pope Leo XIV’s ascension to the papacy was a historic moment that surprised many in the United States. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson described the election as “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city.” Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost pursued his education in mathematics at Villanova University before obtaining a diploma in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. His missionary work spanned decades, including 20 years in Peru, where he became a naturalized citizen and served as a bishop.
Dolton’s Strategic Move
The Dolton Village Board members expressed their enthusiasm about acquiring the pope’s home, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” They believe that owning the property will enable the village to honor its historical significance appropriately. “We can either seize this moment and move it forward, or we can let that moment go to an investor,” Dolton Mayor Jason House stated at the board meeting on Tuesday.
Mayor House emphasized that the acquisition could allow Dolton to reassess its enterprise and historic land zones, potentially attracting “state and congressional funds” to the town. Other trustees echoed the mayor’s sentiments, citing the economic benefits experienced by communities that have preserved historic sites, such as the homes of Michael Jackson and Martin Luther King.
Community Concerns and Economic Implications
Despite the excitement surrounding the purchase, some residents voiced concerns about the potential strain on the community’s infrastructure. Longtime Dolton resident Mary Avent expressed her worries to CNN affiliate WBBM, stating, “Purchasing the pope’s house is admirable, but with the state we’re in right now, I guess my concern is, do we have the money?” Avent highlighted the absence of a police and fire chief in Dolton, which she believes should be prioritized.
Trustee Edward Steave acknowledged the residents’ concerns during the board meeting, affirming that their complaints were valid. However, he maintained that the village could manage this significant acquisition while addressing other community needs. “We can do this great thing at the same time,” Steave assured.
Looking Ahead
The sale is expected to close within the next two weeks, according to Mayor House. Photos posted on the village’s Facebook page late Tuesday depicted workers conducting repairs to the roof of the pope’s house, though it remains unclear whether these repairs are being coordinated by the town. CNN has reached out to the Dolton Village Board for further clarification.
This development follows a growing trend of communities leveraging historical sites to boost local economies and tourism. The acquisition of Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home could not only preserve a piece of history but also provide Dolton with new opportunities for economic revitalization.
“We can either seize this moment and move it forward, or we can let that moment go to an investor.” — Dolton Mayor Jason House
As Dolton prepares for the finalization of the purchase, the village faces the challenge of balancing historical preservation with the immediate needs of its residents. The decision to acquire the pope’s childhood home has sparked a dialogue about priorities and possibilities, setting the stage for future developments in this small but historically significant suburb.