The Crosby Estate

THE BING CROSBY ESTATE

1200 Armsby Drive, Hillsborough

THE CROSBY ESTATE — A LANDMARK OF CALIFORNIA’S GOLDEN ERA

Located in prestigious Lower North Hillsborough neighborhood, the Crosby Estate is one of the most significant residential properties in Northern California. Spanning approximately 2.4 acres, this private and expansive estate is a French château–style masterpiece that seamlessly blends architectural grandeur, historic legacy, and timeless luxury.

Designed in 1925 by renowned architects John Bakewell Jr. and Ernest Weihe, the residence has been home to legendary figures, including Hollywood icon Bing Crosby and Charles Howard, the famed owner of the legendary racehorse Seabiscuit.

GRAND SCALE & TIMELESS INTERIORS

The estate’s grand proportions and thoughtfully designed floor plan make it ideal for both intimate family living and large-scale entertaining. The residence offers approximately 13,635 square feet of finished living space (18,535 square feet total), with 11 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, and 5 half bathrooms across four levels.

Upon entry, a dramatic hall with soaring ceilings, detailed wall paneling, and elegant wood flooring sets the tone for the home. The formal living room, anchored by a striking marble fireplace, is adorned with intricate detailing that evokes the charm of a classic European estate. Adjacent is a richly paneled library featuring a black marble fireplace mantel, custom built-in bookcases, and expansive windows framing views of the manicured grounds.

The formal dining room is an architectural showpiece, distinguished by its oval shape, an exquisite Venetian chandelier, and hand-painted rose garden wall designs by artist Albert Proom. This refined space has hosted countless gatherings over decades. Nearby, the smoking room and bar provide a warm and intimate setting for relaxed entertaining.

Exceptional craftsmanship is woven throughout—from the hand-carved staircase banister sourced from the collection of William Randolph Hearst, believed to date to 17th-century England, to the finely detailed office paneling also drawn from the Hearst collection.

DESIGNED FOR GRAND LIVING & ENTERTAINING

Built for those who value luxury, privacy, and timeless elegance, the estate’s layout balances formal entertaining spaces with comfortable family living. The gourmet kitchen features a large pantry and connects seamlessly to a casual breakfast room and mudroom leading to the eight-car garage. This level also includes a private office and an en-suite bedroom, ideal for guests.

The second floor hosts four generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite with two en-suite bathrooms. Each additional bedroom features its own en-suite bath. This level also connects to a private wing with five additional bedrooms and four bathrooms, ideal for extended family or live-in staff.

Additional spaces include a fully finished attic with a game room, an extra bedroom, and multiple storage rooms, as well as a lower-level basement with ample storage and a laundry room.

EARLY HISTORY 

The home was commissioned by sportsman and racehorse enthusiast Lindsay C. Howard, who moved into the residence with his wife Anita shortly after its completion in 1930. Following their divorce in 1938, Lindsay sold the property to his father, Charles E. Howard—auto magnate and owner of Seabiscuit. Charles and his wife Marcella resided at the estate until his passing in 1950.

In 1954, Marcella sold the property to Kermit L. Williams, who later sold it in 1961 to auto dealer Joseph W. Cochran III and his wife, Joan. After four years, the Cochran’s sold 1200 Armsby Drive to legendary singer and film star Harry “Bing” Crosby and his wife, Kathryn. Following Bing’s death in 1977, Kathryn Crosby continued to reside at the estate until 2024.

EQUESTRIAN LEGACY

Under Howard’s ownership, Seabiscuit became the most celebrated racehorse of his era—winning 11 of 15 races in 1937 and defeating War Admiral at Pimlico Race Course in 1938 in what was widely regarded as the most anticipated sporting event of the year—cementing his status as the nation’s top newsmaker. Between 1938 and 1940, Seabiscuit lived on the property in a large stable complex once located on the grounds. Though long rumored to be buried at 1200 Armsby Drive, Seabiscuit is buried at Ridgewood Ranch.

A CENTER OF HOLLYWOOD, MUSIC & CULTURAL LIFE

The home served as the heart of the Crosby family, where music filled the rooms and friends gathered for evenings of conversation and song. Adding to its cultural legacy, the estate was also used as a filming location for the Crosby family’s popular Minute Maid orange juice commercials in the 1960s.

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE & GROUNDS

Beyond its Hollywood and equestrian heritage, the Crosby Estate stands as a premier example of French Renaissance Revival architecture. Inspired by the grandeur of Champ Soleil in Newport, Rhode Island, and La Lanterne at Versailles, the residence reflects European sophistication at its finest.

The meticulously landscaped grounds feature a serene resort-style pool and spa, manicured gardens, tranquil walking paths, and mature trees providing extraordinary privacy. Originally part of a storied equestrian estate, the grounds once included a barn, horse stalls, an oval riding track, and pastureland for Seabiscuit and other celebrated racehorses—an enduring legacy that adds depth and distinction.

Multiple terraces and patios connect seamlessly to the pool and spa, offering lush views of the surrounding Hillsborough landscape and ample space for future enhancements tailored to a buyer’s vision.

A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY

More than a residence, the Crosby Estate is an irreplaceable piece of California history. With its rare convergence of Hollywood legacy, architectural significance, and estate-scale grounds, it stands among the most important residential offerings in Hillsborough.

Bing Crosby’s Personal Touch
Bing Crosby purchased the estate in 1965 with his wife Kathryn Crosby, who fell in love with the home’s French-inspired design, soaring ceilings, and secluded setting. During their ownership, the Crosbys enhanced the home’s architectural features with exceptional historic elements, reflecting a deep appreciation for timeless craftsmanship and elegance. The home remained Kathryn Crosby’s residence until 2024, closing an extraordinary chapter in Hillsborough history.