c.1865 Former Illinois Church For Sale Converted to a Home $125K
OHU50K Notes $125,000
Realtor Comments
Where history and creativity collide this former country church has been transformed into a stunning 2-bedroom, 1 and a half bath home that offers unmatched character and charm. The moment you walk up to the red-brick exterior and steeple, you know you’re stepping into something special. The 1865 original bell in the steeple is still there and intact. Inside, you’re welcomed by vaulted ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, and colorful stained-glass windows that flood the open living area with natural light. The expansive main level is designed with a flowing studio feel, perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and showcasing the church’s original architecture. The kitchen and breakfast nook offer plenty of space for cooking and gathering, while the cozy bedrooms provide private retreats. Two full bathrooms including one with a clawfoot tub combine vintage touches with modern convenience. Downstairs, the full basement nearly doubles the living space, featuring a large recreation room, additional bedroom, bath, and flexible rooms that could be finished out as a workshop, studio, or guest suite. Set against a backdrop of open fields and wide skies, this home offers privacy, peace, and an unforgettable story. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind personal residence, creative retreat, or even a distinctive Airbnb/investment property, this converted church is truly one of a kind.
- Studio
- 1.5 bath
- Build date 1860
1372 Lincoln Highway Rd, Lerna, IL 62440 $125,000
- Contact Realtor: Nate Evans
- Google Map
- Niche
History
Pros of Living in Lerna, IL
1. Highly Affordable Cost of Living & Housing
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Lerna boasts an exceptionally low cost of living—approximately 22% below the Illinois average—and a cost index of just 75/100 compared to 96 for the state
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Median home values average $68,200, while rent sits around $613/month, both notably below state and national averages
2. Strong Livability, Education & Low Crime (Per Some Sources)
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Citytistics gives Lerna an A+ livability rating, also rating high on cost of living, education, crime, and low poverty
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Schools appear to perform well in this assessment, and poverty is relatively low.
3. Peaceful, Small‑Town Atmosphere
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Crime levels are low: neighborhood-level data note one of the lowest overall crime rates in the U.S.
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The village is quiet, car-oriented (nearly 99% commute by private car), and free from the bustle of crowded urban environments
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Demographically, it has a balanced age range, fostering community bonds between generations
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Rich in small‑town charm and supportive spirit, with deep ties to local history (e.g., Thomas Lincoln homestead nearby)
4. Historical Character
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Lerna retains numerous pre–World War II architectural features, adding to its historic feel and appeal
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Its proximity to the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site (Thomas Lincoln’s homestead) adds cultural significance
Cons of Living in Lerna, IL
1. Limited Amenities & Transportation
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As a very small village, Lerna offers minimal local amenities—few shops, restaurants, entertainment, or public services
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Public transit is virtually nonexistent, and nearly all residents drive; walkability is poor
2. Employment & Income Challenges
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Median household income stands at just $44,286, considerably lower than the Illinois average
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Unemployment rate is high (~15.7%), significantly above the state average (~5.9%)
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Per capita income is around $19,400, well below state and national norms
3. Crime Concerns (Contradictory Metrics)
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While some sources tout very low crime, other statistics show crime in Lerna is 30% higher than the U.S. average, with a 1 in 34 chance of victimization
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Violent crime is 19% above the national average
4. Education & Diversity Shortfalls
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Though Citytistics rates education highly, data suggests only a small portion of residents have college degrees (e.g., ~10% hold bachelor’s degrees, ~5.8% hold graduate degrees)
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Racial and ethnic diversity is very limited—over 94% White, with minimal representation from other groups
5. Tiny Population & Limited Growth
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Population stands between 220–250, reflecting its status as a very small village
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Such small scale may limit economic development, services, social opportunities, and long-term growth potential.
Feb, 2022 Listing Below
1372 Lincoln Highway Rd, Lerna, IL 62440 $92,500
The space is currently set up as event space with capacity for 40-50, though it could be modified into one of a kind living space, or taken back to its roots as a country church and community gathering space. Ample parking, outdoor space for events or private living, modern amenities including all new appliances, fresh paint, new wiring and plumbing installed. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is less than 1 mi away, and Historic Moore Home is right across the road. Don’t miss your chance to check out this one of kind property and own a piece of Coles County History!
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August 2020 Listing Below
1372 Lincoln Highway Rd, Lerna, IL, 62440 $44,900
REALTOR COMMENTS
