Decoding History: A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying Sears Kit Homes

Sears Modern Homes, also known as Sears Catalog Homes or Sears Kit Homes, represent a fascinating chapter in American architectural history. Between 1908 and 1940, Sears, Roebuck & Co. sold over 70,000 homes through their mail-order catalog. These weren’t just plans; they were kits containing nearly everything needed to build a house, from lumber and nails to windows, doors, and even paint. Today, identifying a Sears Kit Home can be a rewarding experience, connecting you to a tangible piece of the past. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed steps and instructions to help you determine if that charming house down the street (or perhaps your own!) is indeed a Sears Modern Home.

Why Identify Sears Kit Homes?

There are several compelling reasons to identify a Sears Kit Home:

• Historical Significance: Sears homes reflect a period of significant social and economic change in America. They represent the rise of mail-order retail, the expansion of homeownership, and the development of standardized construction techniques.
• Architectural Appreciation: These homes showcase a variety of architectural styles, from Craftsman bungalows to Colonial Revivals, offering a glimpse into the aesthetic preferences of the early 20th century.
• Property Value: Identifying a Sears home can potentially increase its market value, as it adds a layer of historical significance and charm.
• Personal Connection: Discovering that your home is a Sears Kit Home can be a deeply personal experience, connecting you to a rich history and a legacy of craftsmanship.
• Preservation Efforts: Knowing the origins of a home helps in informed preservation and restoration efforts, ensuring these historic structures are maintained for future generations.

The Sears Modern Homes Program: A Brief Overview

Before diving into the identification process, it’s helpful to understand the basics of the Sears Modern Homes program:

• Mail-Order Empire: Sears revolutionized retail by offering a vast array of products through their catalog, reaching customers in rural areas and small towns across the country.
• Complete Kits: The kits included everything needed to build the house (except for the foundation, brick, and sometimes plaster/drywall).
• Mortgage Financing: Sears even offered mortgage financing to make homeownership more accessible.
• Wide Variety of Styles: Over 447 different models were offered, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.
• Quality Materials: Sears emphasized quality materials and construction, contributing to the durability of these homes.

Steps to Identify a Sears Kit Home

Identifying a Sears Kit Home requires a combination of research, observation, and detective work. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Initial Assessment – Curb Appeal and Architectural Style

Begin by observing the house’s exterior. Take note of the following:

• Architectural Style: Is it a Craftsman bungalow, a Colonial Revival, a Dutch Colonial, a Tudor Revival, or another style common in the early 20th century? Familiarize yourself with common architectural styles of the period. Sears offered models in many popular styles.
• Era of Construction: When do you believe the house was built? Sears homes were sold between 1908 and 1940. Researching the history of the neighborhood can give you clues about when the house might have been constructed. Check local records for approximate build dates.
• Symmetry and Proportions: Sears homes often exhibit a pleasing sense of symmetry and well-proportioned features. Pay attention to the placement of windows, doors, and other architectural elements.
• Overall Condition: While not definitive, a well-maintained house suggests quality construction, which aligns with Sears’ emphasis on durable materials. However, neglect over time doesn’t necessarily rule out a Sears home.
• Neighborhood Context: Are there other houses in the neighborhood with similar architectural styles and features? Sears homes were sometimes built in clusters, especially in company towns or new developments.

Step 2: Look for Identifying Marks and Features

This is where the real detective work begins. Search for specific marks and features that could indicate a Sears Kit Home:

• Stamped Lumber: This is one of the most reliable indicators. Check exposed lumber in the basement, attic, or behind walls (during renovations) for stamped markings that read “Sears, Roebuck & Co.”, “S.R. & Co.”, or a similar abbreviation. The stamp might be faint or partially obscured, so use a flashlight and magnifying glass. Look on the back of trim, studs, rafters, and joists.
• Numbered Lumber: Sears used a numbering system to identify lumber pieces within the kit. Look for small, stamped numbers on the ends of lumber, indicating their position in the construction plans. These numbers are less definitive than the full Sears stamp but can be a supporting clue.
• Subcontractor Marks: Some Sears homes were assembled by subcontractors who left their own marks, stamps, or labels on the lumber or other materials. While these marks won’t directly identify the house as a Sears home, they can provide clues about the construction process and materials used.
• Plumbing Fixtures: Sears sold plumbing fixtures under the brand name “Standard.” Check toilets, sinks, and bathtubs for this brand name. Note that many other companies sold plumbing fixtures at the time, so this isn’t definitive on its own.
• Hardware: Sears also sold hardware under various brand names. Examine door knobs, hinges, and other hardware for distinctive markings or logos that might be associated with Sears or its suppliers.
• Windows and Doors: Look for any markings on the windows and doors, such as manufacturer’s labels or stamps. While Sears didn’t manufacture these items themselves, they sourced them from specific suppliers. Researching the suppliers used by Sears can help identify potential matches.
• Floor Plans: If you have access to the floor plans of the house, compare them to known Sears Modern Homes floor plans (more on this in Step 4).
• Shipping Labels: In rare cases, original shipping labels might be found attached to lumber or other materials. These labels would clearly indicate that the materials were shipped from Sears, Roebuck & Co.
• Original Paperwork: The holy grail of Sears Kit Home identification is finding original paperwork, such as the sales contract, blueprints, or construction manual. These documents would definitively prove that the house is a Sears Modern Home. Check with previous owners or local historical societies.

Step 3: Research Local Records

Local records can provide valuable information about the house’s history and construction:

• Deeds and Property Records: Check the county recorder’s office for deeds and property records related to the house. These records might reveal the original owner, the date of purchase, and any mortgage information. Look for any mention of Sears, Roebuck & Co. in these documents.
• Building Permits: Building permits can provide information about the construction of the house, including the date of construction, the builder, and the materials used. Look for permits filed around the time the house was likely built.
• Tax Records: Tax records can provide information about the assessed value of the property and any improvements that have been made over time.
• Sanborn Maps: Sanborn maps are detailed maps of cities and towns that were used for insurance purposes. These maps can show the location and footprint of buildings, as well as the materials they were constructed from. Comparing Sanborn maps from different years can reveal when the house was built and any changes that have been made over time.
• City Directories: City directories list residents and their addresses. They can help you track the occupancy history of the house and identify previous owners who might have information about its origins.
• Historical Societies: Contact local historical societies or preservation organizations. They may have records, photographs, or other information about Sears homes in your area. They might also have local experts who can help you with your identification efforts.

Step 4: Compare to Sears Modern Homes Catalogs and Plans

This is a crucial step. Compare the house’s architectural style, floor plan, and features to those of known Sears Modern Homes models. You can find Sears Modern Homes catalogs and plans online and in libraries:

• Online Resources: Numerous websites and online archives offer digitized versions of Sears Modern Homes catalogs. These catalogs typically include detailed descriptions, floor plans, and photographs of each model. Some websites also offer searchable databases of Sears homes.
• Libraries and Archives: Local libraries and historical archives may have physical copies of Sears Modern Homes catalogs or other related materials.
• Sears Archives: While access may be limited, contacting the Sears Archives directly could potentially provide information about specific models or sales records.
• Key Features to Compare:
  • Floor Plan: Carefully compare the layout of the rooms, the placement of doors and windows, and the overall dimensions of the house to the floor plans in the Sears catalogs.
  • Exterior Details: Pay attention to details such as the roofline, the porch design, the window styles, and the trim work. Look for matching details in the Sears catalogs.
  • Interior Features: Compare interior features such as the fireplace design, the staircase design, and the built-in cabinets to those shown in the Sears catalogs.
  • Model Number: Once you find a potential match, note the model number of the Sears home. This will help you narrow down your research and confirm your findings.

Step 5: Consult with Experts

If you’re still unsure whether or not a house is a Sears Kit Home, consider consulting with experts:

• Architectural Historians: An architectural historian can provide expert analysis of the house’s architectural style, construction techniques, and historical context. They can also help you interpret historical records and identify potential Sears features.
• Preservation Consultants: Preservation consultants specialize in the preservation and restoration of historic buildings. They can assess the house’s condition, identify potential problems, and recommend appropriate preservation strategies.
• Sears Kit Home Experts: There are individuals who have dedicated their time to researching and identifying Sears Kit Homes. They often have extensive knowledge of Sears models, construction details, and historical records. Online communities and forums dedicated to Sears homes can also be valuable resources for connecting with experts.
• Real Estate Appraisers with Historic Home Experience: A real estate appraiser with experience in historic homes can assess the value of the property and take into account its historical significance.

Common Sears Modern Homes Models

Familiarizing yourself with some of the most common Sears Modern Homes models can help you in your identification efforts:

• The Alhambra: A large, impressive two-story home with a distinctive Spanish Colonial Revival style.
• The Argyle: A classic Craftsman bungalow with a low-pitched roof, wide eaves, and a prominent front porch.
• The Belmont: A spacious and elegant Colonial Revival home with a symmetrical facade and refined details.
• The Crescent: A smaller, more affordable bungalow with a simple design and a cozy feel.
• The Dover: A popular Dutch Colonial Revival home with a gambrel roof and a charming front porch.
• The Kilbourne: A compact and efficient two-story home with a simple but attractive design.
• The Lexington: A grand and stately Colonial Revival home with a large front porch and impressive architectural details.
• The Vallonia: A charming and affordable bungalow with a distinctive Craftsman style.

These are just a few examples of the many Sears Modern Homes models that were available. By studying these models and comparing them to the house you’re investigating, you can increase your chances of making a positive identification.

Challenges in Identifying Sears Kit Homes

Identifying a Sears Kit Home can be challenging due to several factors:

• Modifications and Renovations: Over time, many Sears homes have been modified or renovated, obscuring original features and making identification more difficult. Additions, alterations to the facade, and changes to the interior layout can all complicate the process.
• Lack of Documentation: Original paperwork and documentation are often lost or destroyed, making it difficult to definitively prove that a house is a Sears home.
• Similarities to Other Homes: Many other companies sold kit homes or used similar architectural styles during the same period. It can be difficult to distinguish a Sears home from a similar home built by another company.
• Fading Stamps and Markings: Stamped lumber and other markings can fade over time, making them difficult to find or read.
• Incorrect Information: Misinformation and myths about Sears homes can circulate, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction.

Despite these challenges, with careful research, diligent observation, and a little bit of luck, you can often successfully identify a Sears Kit Home.

Tips for Successful Identification

Here are some additional tips to help you in your Sears Kit Home identification efforts:

• Be Patient: Identifying a Sears home can take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find all the answers right away.
• Be Thorough: Examine all aspects of the house, both inside and out. Look for subtle details that might provide clues about its origins.
• Document Your Findings: Take detailed notes and photographs of your findings. This will help you organize your research and track your progress.
• Collaborate with Others: Share your findings with other researchers, experts, or online communities. Collaboration can help you uncover new information and gain different perspectives.
• Don’t Jump to Conclusions: Avoid making assumptions or drawing conclusions based on limited evidence. Gather as much information as possible before making a determination.
• Respect the Property: When examining a house, be respectful of the property and the privacy of the occupants. Obtain permission before entering the house or taking photographs.

Resources for Further Research

Here are some helpful resources for conducting further research on Sears Modern Homes:

• Sears Archives: (Contact information can be found online)
• Local Historical Societies and Libraries:
• Online Sears Modern Homes Communities and Forums: (Search online for relevant groups)
• Books on Sears Modern Homes: (Search online booksellers for titles)
• Websites Dedicated to Sears Homes: (Search online for “Sears Modern Homes” or “Sears Kit Homes”)

Conclusion

Identifying a Sears Kit Home is a fascinating journey into the past. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of uncovering the history of these unique and important homes. Remember to be patient, thorough, and collaborative, and to respect the property and the privacy of the occupants. Happy hunting!