A prominent historical and architectural feature of old Malden was that many early residents built “Sears Modern Homes”. These were kit homes ordered through the Sears Roebuck Catalog back in 1909-1940. The railroad would deliver them free to railroad employees, of which there were many in Malden and Pine City.
The Pine Creek Community Restoration long-term recovery group has talked to some architects in the Spokane chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). They are working pro bono to put together several sets of plans for Sears homes, which can be used by residents if they want to preserve or recreate this historic style when rebuilding.