Newly appointed Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, was born and raised in a Chicago suburb. The family of 5, including 2 brothers, lived in a modest bungalow in Dolton, a mostly white, working-class community 17 miles south of downtown Chicago.
Needless to say, Chicago couldn’t be prouder of “Bob”.
In true American style, a Chicago hot dog joint recently posted a sign saying: “He has eaten our dogs”. LOL.
Back in the 50’s, Pope Leo’s father, Louis Marius Prevost, would have earned $3-$5,000 per year as an educator, and his wife, Mildred Agnes Martínez, slightly less as a public librarian. With a combined income of let’s say, $8,500, their net monthly take-home pay would have been about $650, with $40-$45 allocated for mortgage payments.
There is a 25% rule that financial experts say homeowners should strive to achieve. Basically, the idea is that no more than 25% of your gross monthly income should go toward mortgage payments. This rule is designed to ensure that housing costs remain manageable, leaving room for other expenses, such as utilities, transportation, food and savings. It is based on the notion that a mortgage payment should not become a financial burden.
So, 25% of $8,500 divided by 12 (months of the year) = $177.08. The Prevost family was living well within its means and, we presume, providing generous support, as parishioners, to nearby St. Mary’s Church.
Pope Leo’s family home was last sold for a mere $66,000 in May 2024, quickly renovated and re-listed for $205,000 in January. A contingent offer was received in April, and then suddenly the property was taken off the market just a few days ago.
"It's like a collectible car they only made one of.” (Steve Budzick, Real Estate Agent Representing the Owner)
This sudden flurry of interest in Pope Leo’s childhood home is a great opportunity to learn more about post-WWII bungalows.
First, though, let’s not forget the fact that Chicago is considered, by many, to be the birthplace of modern architecture. The City’s iconic skyline is a blend of impressive historical and modern structures.
Though Pope Leo’s parent’s home is not located in Chicago’s official “bungalow belt”, it has all the makings of this mid-20th century urban phenomenon.
The development of bungalow neighborhoods was driven by city planners and developers, who helped shape the layout and mass production of these homes. They were designed to be affordable, practical and fit for working-class families, contributing to the growth of suburban communities around Chicago.
Will 212 East 141st Place be relisted at a higher price or established as a Chicago heritage site? Thankfully, the sale of this building has been paused, allowing time for appropriate reflection. After all, no person born in the United States has ever become Pope, until now.
For those readers who may not know, the first Pope is traditionally considered to be St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles. He is believed to have become the Pope around 30-33 AD, after Jesus' death and resurrection. According to Catholic tradition, St. Peter was appointed by Jesus as the leader of his followers, and he became the first Bishop of Rome. St. Peter is considered the foundation of the papacy, and all subsequent popes, including Pope Leo XIV, are regarded as his successors. It’s a BIG thing.
Now that you’ve read today’s blog, why not take what you’ve learned and play today’s matching quiz on your Quizefy app? Many of the answers can be found right here. We publish an on-trend, hint-filled blog at www.quizefy.com every Tuesday, along with a matching quiz in your Quizefy app. We think they’re a great combination and a great way to Strut Your Smart.