Hostess With The Mostest: Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Benefit While On Market

Hostess With The Mostess: Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Benefit While On Market

Apparently some homes are special. This past Saturday evening, the former Bing Crosby estate at 10500 Camarillo St. in Toluca Lake once again played host to the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce's benefit, "Comedy Night Under The Stars". The sold-out event was packed. Rumor has it the Fire Marshall had a sharp eye out for any potential violations. Luckily the event went off without a hitch. The evening started with tours of the stately home and a cocktail hour where "regular" residents mingled with their celebrity neighbors around the pool and lovely rear grounds. A Santa Maria-style barbecue followed; the large, wood-fired grills smoking well into the evening. For desert, cake, comedy and a bit of doo-wop was served to the delight of the "oldies" crowd. A helicopter full of paparazzi even hovered overhead for several passes. Really.

While the food, drinks and entertainment were great, due to a huge recent price reduction down to $4,225,000.00, I am certain that the former Crosby home was the main attraction for many visitors. With a lot size of over 80,000 square feet and and living space measuring over 7,000, there definitely is a lot to look at. The majestic 6 bedroom / 8 bath property designed in the Southern Colonial style is sumptuously appointed at every turn. The grounds, lushly landscaped and well-groomed boast rose gardens, fruit trees, a championship tennis court and over-sized swimming pool with a separate spa, cabana with full amenities, BBQ and Italian fireplace. A detached 2 bed / 2 bath guest quarters includes a kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, living room and gym provides options for hired help or when relatives are in town.

The Bing Crosby estate was built in 1936 and was the entertainer's main residence until 1943. Bob and Delores Hope were once guests staying in one of the outbuildings while their mansion at Moorpark and Ledge was under construction in 1939. Mickey Dolenz, Andy Griffith and Jerry Van Dyke have all taken turns as residents of this pedigreed address. Current owner, Larry Stickney, has outdone himself in preserving a one-of-a-kind gem. This wonderful icon of the old days of Hollywood glamor and royalty is ready for a buyer who fully appreciates the history, craftsmanship and attention to detail found throughout the property. Yes, some homes are truly special.

Shirly Duenckel and Jon Molin of Ramsey-Shilling Associates have the listing.