Pope Leo’s childhood home in Illinois up for auction

DOLTON, Ill. (WGN) — A piece of Papal history is up for sale in Chicago’s south suburbs, where Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home has just hit the auction block.

The home, which is being described by the seller as a “Piece of Papal History,” is located at 212 East 141st Place in Dolton.

“It’s the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope in history,” the listing said.” Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago and raised right here in Dolton, Pope Leo XIV’s journey from this humble neighborhood to the Vatican is a testament to faith, perseverance, and purpose.”

The three-bedroom, 1,050 square-foot home was built in 1949 and last sold in May of 2024 for $66,000, before being put up for sale again in January.

The two-story property was initially listed for $219,000 but gradually decreased in price until it was taken off the market a day after Poipe Leo was chosen to lead the church.

The current owner told WGN News that he had initially planned to renovate and rent out the home, but his plans quickly changed after Leo’s historic appointment.

“Whether you’re a homeowner searching for a meaningful space to call your own or an investor looking for a property with historical significance and high potential, this is an opportunity like no other,” the listing said.

According to the listing, the home is being offered via a luxury private auction and bidding is open through 4 p.m. on June 18th.

Currently, the auction has a reserve price of $250,000. Additionally, the listing states that the seller may accept or reject bids at any time.

While the property offers a chance at owning a piece of history, the home is not exactly as it would have been when the pope lived there. The listing states that the home “features a freshly renovated interior.”

Robert Francis Prevost, who will be known as Pope Leo XIV was born on Chicago’s South Side and raised in Dolton. Last week he was elected to lead the Catholic Church as their 267th pope, and is the first American to hold the position.

Visit Paramount Realty USA’s website for more information on the auction.