The air is crisp; Halloween is over; and people are setting their sights on Thanksgiving and Christmas. One place has been in a permanent state of Christmas bliss 365 days of the year-- A Christmas Story house and museum in Cleveland. In fact, the exact address is: 3159 West 11th Street. The parcels that surround this little piece of history are for sale. The property is 1.3 acres including five buildings on seven parcels. Additionally, there are two public and one private parking lots, and two empty lots. If you got the cash...
Meanwhile, owner Brian Jones posted this on FB for people freaked out about the sale:
Hey fellow fans,
I'm seeing a lot of concerns out there about the future of A Christmas Story House & Museum. I want to make a couple things clear.
1. We are NOT closing. We are open and will remain so now and into the future. It's business as usual. Come see us. All reservations for overnights and pre-purchased tickets are valid and will be honored.
2. A Christmas Story House & Museum will always be an experience and attraction for fans to visit. Several years ago we had it designated a lankmark to make sure it would be protected no matter who owns it. In fact, once we listed it for sale we received the following reminder from The City of Cleveland:
"The actual home at 3159 West 11th Street is a designated Cleveland Landmark (see attached ordinance) which should be included in the listing. Exterior alterations to the structure and site need to go through Cleveland Landmarks Commission for a Certificate of Appropriateness. Changes can include replacing doors, windows, roof, painting, porch, etc."
3. I am selling because it is simply time for me to move on to a new adventure in life after 20 years in this endeavor. It has been an honor to be the steward of such an amazing piece of Americana. All founders need to eventually move on so that their creation can reach it's full potential. There are so many more great opportunities to make A Christmas Story House & Museum an even greater experience for everyone. The future of A Christmas Story House & Museum will be amazing.
Brian Jones
Current Owner
A Christmas Story House & Museum