One of only two Sears Vallonia model homes in the western suburb of Berwyn, IL is for sale at the price of $1 to anyone interested in moving and preserving the structure.

Although there are about 75,000 to 100,000 Sears homes in the U. S., there are only 13 Sears home in Berwyn, an area know as the “City of Homes”. These houses are part of the history of this region that includes the Chicago-based Sears company. The Sears Vallonia model mimics early twentieth century Craftsman architectural details. However, the Sears home on sale is in danger of being demolished by the Berwyn Park District in order to pave the way for a parking lot for the Liberty Cultural Center.

This is a three-bedroom, two-bath house built in 1923. Features include a carved wood column, cut-work detailing, an original front wood door and windows, and an antique porch light fixture. The grayish-blue siding on the exterior is a later update.

The Berwyn Historical Society is considering purchasing and moving the house. They have estimated that moving costs would be between $20,000 and $30,000. The society has proposed moving the house to Janura Park, near 28th Street and East Avenue, onto land donated by the city. It would then be used by the Berwyn Recreational Department, either as an administrative building or for its programs. This proposal is under consideration.

The house is located at 6501 27th Place. The original demolition date was March 1, 2008 with an extension being granted until June 2, 2008. The last demolition date has been extended indefinitely in order to find a way to preserve the building.