In February 2010, I traversed 2,500+ miles, driving throughout the Illinois hinterlands, seeking and finding Sears Homes.
I’m firmly convinced that we all entertain angels unawares (although sometimes, I suspect that it’s the angels that find me pretty entertaining). Before I start out on these jaunts, I always say a little prayer, asking for a bit of divine guidance.
Perhaps that’s how I came to land in Owaneco (a really tiny town). Turning onto the main drag (the only drag), I discovered this wonderful old Sears Hollywood. Yes, the house is a little tired but – the good news is – it’s in wonderfully original condition.
It’s been more than two years since I first posted these photos. Since then, the owners contacted me and said that they’re working hard to do a faithful restoration.
That’s always music to my ears!
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It was a gloomy day when I photographed this Sears Hollywood in Owaneco, but this is still one of my favorite photos from that trip. This house is still solid and square and true.
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The original catalog image from 1919.
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This was a very spacious house. The living room alone was 406 square feet of living area. The house itself was almost 1,400 square feet. And it even had a sleeping porch on the back!
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The Hollywood was offered in two different styles. The house in Owaneco is the style shown in the lower right of the catalog page. I've reversed the image (as is shown directly underneath the home's actual photo). Sears plans could be "reversed" to take advantage of optimal lighting on the lot.
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According to the catalog, there are also Hollywoods in these cities!
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To learn more about Sears Homes, click here.
To read another fascinating blog, click here.
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I’ve been on the hunt for The Hollywood in Urbana Ohio for a while. No luck yet….but will keep looking!
There is one, or a very nice knockoff of one, in Salem, Il. I will take some photos and send them to you this week.
I am actually going through a home inspection of what I believe is a Hollywood.
Location of the stairs on the front porch is to the right side (when looking at the house), and not centered (as shown with the Hollywood).
I own the Hollywood in Owaneco, Illinois now. The previous owners did not do a faithful restoration, but were trying to make it better!!!!
There is a Hollywood in Canton NC