The Enduring Legacy of Sears
As we witness the decline of iconic American companies like Sears, it’s disheartening to see their struggle against the economic giants of the 21st century. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Apple, with their focus on self-driving cars and innovative technologies, pose a formidable challenge to the traditional retail model.
However, even as Sears as we know it ceases to exist, its legacy will endure. Sears played a significant role in shaping America throughout the 1900s, particularly with their innovative mail-order business. They revolutionized the way Americans purchased everything from appliances to home goods, and even houses!
In the early 1900s, Sears sold houses through their catalogs, providing blueprints and shipping the pieces to customers all over the country. Imagine assembling your dream home, piece by piece. Nowadays, with the rising popularity of tiny houses and DIY enthusiasts, this concept sounds more appealing than ever.
One heartwarming story shared by a Reddit user, RealHotSauceBoss, illustrates the lasting impact of Sears. RealHotSauceBoss shared the story of his grandfather’s Sears catalog home from 1916. Back then, this man purchased the house for just over $1000 – a true steal compared to today’s prices!
Remarkably, this Sears house, which was once a mail-order home, has withstood the test of time. Despite some exterior maintenance due to untreated wood, the house remains structurally sound. The interior has been preserved, with a new exterior shell made from HardiePlank material and storm windows installed. The century-old basement remains in excellent condition, showcasing the durability of Sears homes.
For the Reddit user and their family, this project has been an exciting and rewarding endeavor. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sears and the lasting impact it had on American homes and families.
Looking ahead to the future, we can’t help but wonder what people will marvel at from our time. Will it be our smartphones and computers? Or will it be something more fundamental to our lives that we often take for granted? Only time will tell.
