Dusty D heard from a very kind reader whose grandparents had a Sears kit home in town. As you know these came in on the train as a kit complete with a "keg of nails." You built it yourself. What I love about the descriptions for the various model homes, many of which are floating around online, is the combination of the glowing promise of aspiring to the American dream of home ownership (this one is styled "The Aristocrat of Bungalows"), made cheaper by good old American hard work and sweat equity, and the down-to-earth details. Here are some from this 1917 model, the "Ashmore":
"$2,870: At the above price we will furnish all the material to build this six-room bungalow, consisting of mill work, medicine cabinet, buffet, kitchen cupboard, lumber, lath, shingles, porch ceiling, flooring, finishing, lumber, building paper, eaves trough, down spout, sash weights, hardware, and painting material. No extras, as we guarantee enough material to build this bungalow. Inside floors, trim, doors, etc. furnished in clear red oak for $220 extra. Price does not include cement, brick, or plaster."
Medicine cabinet and sash weights included. $2,870 in 1917 would be $47,600 today. More info on the Ashmore.
Now, are there any Sears homes in Ypsi? There was at least one; it seems possible if not likely that there were more. Dusty D is on the case, but would very much appreciate any tips from kind readers--and of course Id be sure to credit you for help in the piece. Let's find those Sears kit homes!
