CLEVELAND — Editor's note: Video in the player at the top of this story was originally published in a previous article on Nov. 14, 2022.
A Christmas Story House in Cleveland “will always be an experience and attraction for fans to visit.”
That’s the message from current owner Brian Jones who addressed “a lot of concerns out there” after he put the iconic house up for sale this week.
“Several years ago, we had it designated as a landmark to make sure it would be protected no matter who owns it,” Jones wrote in a Facebook post Tuesday morning. “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.’”
Jones also confirmed the house will remain open for tours and overnight stays.
“We are NOT closing,” he reassured. “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.”
3News was first to break the story Monday morning while capturing video of the moment Jones placed the “for sale” sign in front of the legendary house at 3159 West 11th Street in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood.
"Looking for the right buyer," Jones told 3News. "It's an interesting property to not only own, but you also have to take care of as a piece of Americana. It's going to be an interesting journey."
In addition to the West 11th Street house used as Ralphie's childhood home, the production used Cleveland as a backdrop for many of the movie's most memorable moments -- including the Santa slide scene, which was filmed inside the former Higbee building downtown. That location is now home to the JACK Cleveland Casino.
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