Lucille Ball's Beverly Hills Home: History & More
What makes a street legendary? Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills doesn't just house mansions; it cradles stories, whispers of Hollywoods golden age, and the echoes of laughter and applause that once spilled from behind its elegant facades. This isnt just real estate; its a piece of American cultural history.
1000 N. Roxbury Drive, nestled in the exclusive Beverly Hills Gateway neighborhood (zip code 90210), stands as a testament to this legacy. Built in 1936, this sprawling 7,499 square foot estate, situated on nearly an acre of land, boasts six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and an undeniable aura of old Hollywood glamour. While estimates place its current value around $10 million, its true worth lies in the intangible: the memories it holds and the iconic figures who once called it home.
| Name | Lucille Ball |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | August 6, 1911 |
| Death Date | April 26, 1989 |
| Residence (1954-1989) | 1000 N. Roxbury Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210 |
| Profession | Actress, Comedienne, Television Producer |
| Spouse | Desi Arnaz (1940-1960) |
| Most Famous Role | Lucy Ricardo in "I Love Lucy" |
| Further Information | Encyclopedia Britannica: Lucille Ball |
Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the beloved stars of I Love Lucy, graced this very estate from 1954 until Balls passing in 1989. Imagine the legendary parties, the creative sparks flying, the domestic comedies unfolding within these walls, mirroring, perhaps, the antics of America's favorite television couple. It was here, in this Beverly Hills haven, that they lived and worked, shaping the landscape of television comedy during the "I Love Lucy" years, from 1951 to 1957. While the beds may not be pushed together and Fred and Ethel don't live next door, the spirit of that era permeates the very foundation of 1000 N. Roxbury Drive.
The neighborhood itself resonates with the star power of a bygone era. Just next door at 1002 Roxbury, stood the longtime residence of comedian Jack Benny. Picture a charming brick home, a large bay window overlooking meticulously manicured lawns, and brick walkways leading to a backyard that once housed a lavish New Years Eve party in 1944. Among the guests were Hollywood royalty: Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Bing Crosby, Errol Flynn, Ginger Rogers, Tyrone Power, and Claudette Colbert. These were the nights that legends were made of, and Roxbury Drive provided the backdrop.
Roxbury Drive continues to be a highly sought-after address. Neighboring properties, like the one at 1001 N. Roxbury Dr., a 9,068 square foot marvel built in 1942 with five bedrooms and ten bathrooms, have sold for astronomical sums, further solidifying the streets reputation as a haven for the elite. Real estate valuations fluctuate, as evidenced by recent Zestimates, but the intrinsic value of a Roxbury Drive address remains timeless.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, 1000 N. Roxbury Dr. sits within a vibrant community. Local schools like El Rodeo Elementary, Beverly Hills High School, and Good Shepherd Catholic School contribute to the family-friendly atmosphere. Beverly Hills itself offers unparalleled shopping and dining experiences, adding another layer of desirability to this exclusive enclave.
Roxbury Drive isn't simply a street; it's a microcosm of Hollywood's golden age, a place where the ghosts of laughter and legendary parties still linger. From the Gershwins to the Bennys, the Levants to Lucille Ball, this street has played host to an extraordinary constellation of talent, forever etching its name into the annals of American entertainment history. The legacy of 1000 N. Roxbury Drive isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about the enduring spirit of creativity, ambition, and a touch of old Hollywood magic.
