News Summary
The former home of Bing Crosby in Hillsborough, California, is now on the market for $40 million after nearly 60 years. This exquisite property features a French chateau-style design, sprawling grounds, and historical charm, including 11 bedrooms and an office displaying Crosby’s accolades. The home holds significant sentimental value, with its sale following the passing of Crosby’s wife. The listing could potentially break real estate records in the area, bringing forth a new chapter for the iconic estate.
Hillsborough’s Beloved Celebrity Home Hits the Market
Hillsborough, California, is buzzing with excitement as the former home of legendary entertainer Bing Crosby has officially hit the market for the first time in nearly 60 years, listed at a staggering $40 million. This magnificent residence first came into Crosby’s life in the 1960s when he purchased it for just $175,000. Talk about a price jump!
A Peek Inside the Grand Estate
Nestled on a sprawling five-acre lot, the home boasts a stunning French chateau-style design that originally graced the neighborhood back in 1929. The property was crafted by the acclaimed architectural duo of John Bakewell Jr. and Ernest Weihe, and it has been a treasure for the Crosby family ever since.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a world of elegance. The estate sprawls across nearly 14,000 square feet and features an impressive 11 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. The spacious living room, complete with a grand piano, is filled with natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that invite views of the perfectly manicured grounds. Family members fondly recall singing carols around that piano, especially their heartfelt renditions of “White Christmas.”
Where History Meets Comfort
Crosby’s influence can be felt throughout the house. His office still displays many of his accolades, including an Academy Award for the film “Going My Way.” The room exudes charm with wood paneling that was sourced from Europe, hand-selected by media magnate William Randolph Hearst.
Another bragging point is the extraordinary dining room, featuring a circular shape, embellished with French glass doors and an exquisite Venetian glass chandelier. The lovely hand-painted rose detailing adds a unique touch to this already stunning space. And as you glide down the magnificent grand staircase in the foyer, the beautiful wooden banister, plucked from Hearst’s collection, will surely catch your eye.
The Great Outdoors
Once home to a glimmering pool, the backyard now sports a vast grassy field— a family-oriented choice made with the kids’ safety in mind. For those with a penchant for cozy indoor vibes, the estate also includes a wood-paneled library and a smoking room complete with a built-in bar, perfect for hosting guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
A New Chapter Awaits
Following the passing of Kathryn Grant, Bing Crosby’s second wife, in September 2024, the decision was made by their children to put the estate on the market. Selling a childhood home, filled with memories like laughter and love, brings a bittersweet sense of closure and nostalgia. Harry Crosby, their son, reflected on this choice as an emotional but necessary step, especially as siblings have settled in different places.
Record-Breaking Potential
This extraordinary property has the potential to shatter real estate records in Hillsborough, where the previous record stood at $30 million. As the market eagerly watches this historic listing, it’s clear that this is more than just a house—it’s a piece of Hollywood history and a heartfelt tribute to a family legacy. Here’s to hoping that whoever takes on this iconic abode will appreciate its charm and rich history as much as Bing Crosby did!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox Business: Bing Crosby’s California Home Sale
- San Francisco Chronicle: Bing Crosby’s Home in Hillsborough
- People: Bing Crosby’s Sprawling Estate Hits the Market
- Patch: Bing Crosby’s NorCal Estate Sale
- Fox Business: Bing Crosby’s Former Desert Oasis for Sale
- Wikipedia: Bing Crosby
- Google Search: Bing Crosby Estate Sale
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bing Crosby
- Google News: Bing Crosby Real Estate
- Google Scholar: Bing Crosby
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
