The modest childhood home of Pope Leo XIV in Dolton, Illinois, is set to become a historical tourist site following its recent purchase by the village. Local officials confirmed plans to preserve the home of the first American pontiff and open it to the public as a site of cultural and religious significance.
The three-bedroom brick house, located in the suburban village just south of Chicago, was sold for $375,000, according to WGN television. The previous owner had purchased the property for just $66,000 in 2023 shortly before Robert Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV and invested heavily in renovations that restored much of the home’s original charm while ensuring its structural integrity.
Dolton, a community of about 21,000 residents, sees the acquisition as both a celebration of its history and an opportunity for growth. The village board of trustees unanimously voted earlier this month to purchase the home and transform it into a tourist attraction. “This is a proud moment for Dolton,” a village official said. “To be the hometown of Pope Leo XIV is an honor, and we want to share that with the world.”
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in 1955, spent much of his early life in the Dolton home. According to WBEZ Chicago, his parents bought the house in 1949 and lived there until selling it in 1996. The home served as the backdrop for Leo’s formative years and early spiritual journey before he entered religious life.
Plans for the site include a small museum showcasing the Pope’s early life, photographs, family memorabilia, and exhibits exploring his path to the papacy. The village also hopes to partner with local schools and churches to incorporate the site into educational and spiritual programs.
As the first pontiff from the United States, Pope Leo XIV’s election marked a historic moment for American Catholics. Now, his childhood home will stand as a physical testament to his roots and an enduring symbol of inspiration for future generations. The site is expected to open to the public in 2026
