State College neighborhoods feature houses purchased from the Sears catalog!
Early in the 20th century, you could flip through the pages and choose a home. Building parts were then cut and numbered and shipping dates staggered so pieces arrived as needed. Homes were sometimes put together by the purchasers themselves after they arrived in State College via the Bellefonte Central Railroad!
If you walk through the Highlands neighborhood today, you’ll notice several of these homes – all of which have stone facades. Although Sears recommended brick facing, the local availability of stone and prevalence of talented stonemasons made this material an easy upgrade.
Pictured: Sample of a mail-order brick home and similar real life stone structure in the Highlands neighborhood of State College
Laura Mustio made her way to State College via Pittsburgh in 2015. Her writing celebrates our area’s hidden gems, treasured locals, and not-to-be-missed experiences.
