Lustron Homes ‘48-’50

Lustron Homes 1948 -1950

Lustron homes are prefabricated enameled steel houses developed in the post-World War II era United States in response to the shortage of homes for returning G.I.s by Chicago industrialist and inventor Carl Strandlund. 

From 1948-1950 there were approximately 2,498 Lustron homes constructed in the USA. The houses sold for between $8,500 and $9,500, according to a March 1949 article in the Columbus Dispatch.

Lustons were promoted as a way to maximize pleasure and minimize work. The most popular of the Lustron homes was the two-bedroom, 1,021 square feet "Westchester Deluxe" model. In total, there were three "models" of Lustrons: the Westchester, Newport, and Meadowbrook. With the exception of the Esquire, the prototype's name, each Lustron type was available as either a two- or three-bedroom model. The Ohio History Connection recognizes four exterior colors: "Surf Blue," "Dove Gray," "Maize Yellow," and "Desert Tan." The roof likewise consisted of porcelain-enameled steel tiles, which were installed shingle-style. The front and rear doors featured a single light of translucent, rippled glass. 

The Lustron Corporation declared bankruptcy in 1950. It is reported that there are approximately 1,500 Lustron homes still standing today across the United States. In the Winona, MN area, there are four Lustron homes with the most prominent location being the Mugby Junction coffee drive-through on Mankato Avenue. The home in the above picture is still being used as a residence today and is the  Surf Blue model.