c.1902 Four Bedroom Illinois Victorian Home For Sale With Gorgeous Woodwork $136,000

610 E 5th St, Alton, IL 62002  $136,000

If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended. 

• Contact Realtor: Sue Hurley, Broker
  Brokered by MARKET PRO REALTY, INC
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The original owner of this home was Catherine Geltz (b.1874). She was the widow of Charles T. Geltz, a glass blower. Apparently, the glass blowing industry was in decline at the time of his death of an illness in 1916. He left his estate to Catherine.  She had four children who lived in the home with her, Irene, Lester, Mildred and Roy. She also had a man, who the US Census lists as her son. who lived in the home, William Kirchhoff, but she would have only been nine years old at the time of his birth if that was true. Two young grandchildren, Paul and Margaret Smith, also lived in the home. While Catherine had no occupation listed, William was the owner of a saloon.

The Geltz family owned the home for at least four decades. Per the 1940 US Census, Catherine was still living there with all four of her adult, unmarried children, Irene, Lester, Mildred and Roy. Lester was a timekeeper at an oil company. Roy was in the insurance business, and Mildred was a public school teacher. William was out of the picture.

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Alton, Illinois, offers a unique blend of historical significance, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, but like any city, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons based on available information:

Pros of Living in Alton, Illinois:

• Affordable Housing: Alton is known for offering relatively low property prices, making it an attractive option for homebuyers and renters. This affordability can contribute to a diverse and inclusive community.

• Historical Significance: Alton has a rich history, including being the location of the last Lincoln-Douglas debate, and it played a role during the Civil War. It’s also known for its connection to the Underground Railroad and is home to several historic sites and landmarks.

• Cultural and Recreational Activities: The city features numerous parks, two golf courses, a marina, and hosts various events and festivals. There are also attractions like the Alton Amphitheater and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center, providing both cultural and recreational opportunities.

• Climate: Alton enjoys a favorable climate with many days within a comfortable temperature range, abundant sunshine, which contributes to a pleasant living environment.

• Education: Alton hosts educational institutions like the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine and Lewis and Clark Community College, providing access to higher education.

• Community: Residents often describe Alton as having a friendly and considerate community atmosphere, which can be particularly appealing to those looking for a small-town feel with access to larger urban areas like St. Louis.

Cons of Living in Alton, Illinois:

• Crime Rates: Alton has been noted for high violent crime and arson rates, although property crimes are ranked as moderate. Safety concerns might be a significant consideration for some residents or potential movers.

• Economic Challenges: The city has faced economic downturns, particularly with the decline of major industries, although there are ongoing efforts for revitalization and new business opportunities. However, employment opportunities might not be as robust as in larger cities.

• Flooding: Being located near the confluence of three rivers, Alton is prone to floods, with the 1993 flood being particularly severe, which could be a concern for property owners near the river.

• Education System: While Alton has educational institutions, the public school system’s performance, particularly Alton Middle School, ranks in the bottom 50% for state test scores, which might affect educational choices for families.

• Environmental and Health Concerns: There are moderate levels of cancer and substance abuse, which could be linked to environmental factors or socio-economic conditions.

• Limited Diversity: While Alton is diverse for the Midwest region, it might not offer the cultural diversity found in larger metropolitan areas.

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