Mary and Matt Birk own a piece of American history. Their house was built in 1928… and it looked like it came straight out of a Sears catalog! In the past, Sears catalogs featured a variety of home designs. From 1908 to 1940, these mail-order houses were sold, and many of them are still in pristine condition!
People would select their preferred style, and Sears would ship a kit containing everything needed to construct their own home – plumbing, nails, paint, and all! The kits were mostly delivered by train and came with detailed instructions. Each component was numbered and organized in accordance with the instructions. Amazingly, these houses were built entirely by hand!
The Birks’ house is a Martha Washington, one of the more expensive homes. Back in the 1920s, it sold for $3,727! “The Martha Washington is a design that will delight lovers of the true Colonial type of architecture,” according to the catalog description. When you open the Colonial door, you are greeted by a large living room that spans the entire width of the house. A massive brick mantel stands directly in front of you. A double bay window with a seat and a bookcase is to your left.”
Mary confirms the living room is very spacious and she loves the natural light from the double bay window. She says her favorite part about their home is the feel. “It’s not fancy, it’s just charming, pure and simple.” Mary shows us the leaded glass in her built-in cabinets as well as her favorite reading spot – on the bench in the bay window.
My favorite part about these mail-order homes is the description in the Sears catalog. They go into great detail describing what you’re getting and also giving you lots (and lots) of ideas on how to fill your space. “…In this big room, you have ample space for a large piano, phonograph, davenport, library table, plenty of chairs, reading lamp, and any other articles of furniture you deem necessary for your own comfort and the entertainment of your guests.”
Get the full tour of this beautiful, iconic home in the video below!