Plenty of Midwestern towns are full of charming old houses, but few ring out like a Lustron. The post–World War II homes were born from a futuristic vision that promised innovation, efficiency, and a new way of living! Made entirely of porcelain-coated steel, Lustron houses still look like something out of a dream from 1949. Greenfield, Indiana, is lucky enough to have two of them.

After World War II, the United States entered a period of remarkable prosperity. As soldiers returned home, many set their sights on the suburbs. Thankfully, the Lustron Corporation emerged to meet the booming demand for affordable housing. Even though the company is long gone today, its distinctive steel homes still have a devoted, almost cult-like following. I’ve written about them in Muncie, Anderson, Richmond, Straughn, and Tipton, but now it’s Marion’s turn. 

After World War II ended, the United States entered an impressive period of prosperity. Returning soldiers set their eyes on the suburbs, and the Lustron Corporation was established to meet their demand for housing. The company’s old homes remain popular after nearly eighty years, and I found one in Straughn a couple weeks ago.