Bing Crosby, famed for his singing, acting, and dancing in Hollywood’s Golden era, seems to have really loved California. The triple-threat entertainer didn’t settle into just one part of the state. Throughout his life, he owned homes in Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area. And, in a rare moment, two of his former properties are currently for sale. Earlier this year, his former Palm Desert estate hit the market asking $13.5 million and his family’s longtime home near San Francisco just listed for a whopping $40 million.
According to Mansion Global, Crosby purchased the 11-bedroom mansion in Hillsborough, California as a gift for his second wife, Kathryn Grant. The couple moved there in 1965 and made it their home base for raising their kids away from prying eyes. It has stayed in the family’s hands ever since and is now up for sale following Grant’s recent passing.
Built in 1929, the French chateau-style home is a vision of classic Old World luxury. It was originally commissioned by Lindsey Hubbard for his wife, giving the property’s back stories a romantic touch. Hubbard had acclaimed San Francisco architects John Bakewell Jr. and Ernest Weihe, renowned for their work on San Francisco City Hall, design the 13,635-square-foot beauty.
While it has been almost 100 years since the posh residence came to life, it still sings with traditional glamour and coziness. Imposing fireplaces, ornate moldings, crystal chandeliers, and sturdy wood elements abound, especially in the main living and entertaining areas. Under the Crosbys ownership, it was carefully renovated and maintained for decades. They installed substantial elements from William Randolph Hearst’s collection, including a hand-carved wooden staircase banister. Mrs. Crosby also added more romance to the dining room by asking renowned artist Al Proom to decorate the walls.
Surprisingly, the estate doesn’t have a pool, but it’s manicured lawns and gardens have timeless charm. The prime location sits just minutes from the water, too.
Jennifer Gilson of Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty hold the pricey listing, which has not officially changed hands since the iconic singer nabbed it. Now, 60 years later, who will call it home next?