In the early 1900s, Sears Roebuck transformed home buying by offering houses through catalogs. Carlinville, Illinois, boasts over 150 Sears homes, a living museum of American history.
Ben and Mary, retired teachers, bought their Sears home in 1962 for $6,500. These homes, originally part of a coal miner housing development, arrived with 12,000 parts and a 75-page instruction book. Today, Carlinville’s Sears homes attract visitors interested in the charm and history of these unique dwellings.
Each house tells a story of a bygone era, reflecting American retail and lifestyle at the time. These homes symbolize innovation and the enduring spirit of American homeownership, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century life. For those fascinated by history and architecture, a visit to Carlinville’s Sears homes is a must to experience the faded glory of the American Dream delivered in a box.
