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Dear Ev
Cancel all contracts
I gave all I had and
it's no good

A panicked Bing Crosby wired this note to his brother Everett after the singer's first on-the-air radio performance in 1931. (Architectural Digest, April 1996) Fortunately for Bing Crosby, Everett Crosby ignored his plea and signed a deal with the head of CBS, William Paley, for a series of short radio programs. Though Bing had the singing talent, brother Everett was the brains behind the Crosby brand. As Bing perfected his crooner style, with its distinctive, clear and easy-to-understand phrasing of sentimental songs, Everett managed the business—arranging concert appearances, radio performances, movie deals and making investments in real estate and the new television/radio media. Together the brothers became one of the most successful entertainment teams in mid-20th century America.

In 1938 Everett divorced his wife Naomi and soon married pop singer Florence George (Gutherie). As the busy manager for many entertainment and sports personalities, Everett hired Paul R. Williams to design a home in Hollywood celebrating his professional success and new marriage. He and Florence selected a Bel Air site on Bellagio Road for the Williams' designed, Georgian Manor-style residence. With 7 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, landscaped gardens, swimming pool and tennis courts, the house was completed in 1942. The 4.5 acre estate housed their extensive animal menagerie of show dogs, lap dogs, cats, horses, monkeys and 100 birds. (Pittsburg Press, September 15, 1940) The couple was well-known for their diverse collection of animals.

These Maynard Parker photographs of the Everett Crosby residence appeared in Architectural Digest in the 1940s.