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6d ago

Dolton Renames Street to Honor Pope Leo XIV and Begins Talks to Acquire His Childhood Home

The village has initiated negotiations to secure the pope’s boyhood residence, with plans to bid at auction or potentially invoke eminent domain.

Rosetta Polk walks up to the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, in Dolton. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • The Dolton Village Board has officially renamed 141st Place between Indiana Avenue and Manor Avenue as 'Leo XIV Place' to honor the first American pope, Robert Francis Prevost.
  • Pope Leo XIV’s modest childhood home at 212 E. 141st Place is set to be auctioned on June 18, with the village preparing to bid or pursue eminent domain if necessary.
  • Mayor Jason House confirmed initial negotiations with the current homeowner, Pawel Radzik, who rehabbed the property after purchasing it for $66,000 in 2024.
  • The house, already attracting global pilgrimages, is considered a valuable cultural and historical site, though its fair market value remains subjective due to its religious significance.
  • A dedication ceremony for the newly named street has not yet been scheduled, with plans to invite special guests to commemorate the occasion.