Nestled in the hills of Beverly Hills, California, Greystone Mansion is a historic landmark that has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors for decades. The stunning mansion and its lush gardens have served as the backdrop for countless weddings, films, and photoshoots. But what is the history of Greystone Mansion, and how did it become the beloved landmark it is today? Let's take a closer look.
Built in the 1920s
Greystone Mansion was built in the 1920s by Edward Doheny Jr., the son of one of the wealthiest men in America at the time, Edward Doheny Sr. The elder Doheny made his fortune in the oil industry, and his son Edward Jr. followed in his footsteps, becoming a successful oil tycoon in his own right. In 1926, Edward Jr. hired architect Gordon Kaufmann to design a mansion for him and his family on a sprawling estate in the hills of Beverly Hills.
A Tragic Incident
Tragically, just a year after the mansion was completed, Edward Jr. was involved in a scandalous and mysterious incident that would forever alter the course of the mansion's history. In 1929, Edward Jr. was found dead in the mansion along with his secretary, Hugh Plunkett. The exact circumstances of their deaths remain unclear to this day, but it is believed that Plunkett murdered Doheny before turning the gun on himself.
Greystone Mansion Changing Ownership
After the Doheny family left Greystone Mansion, the property changed hands several times over the years. It served as a home for several wealthy families before being sold to the City of Beverly Hills in the 1960s. The city initially planned to demolish the mansion and replace it with a park, but a group of concerned citizens led by Virginia Robinson, a local philanthropist, fought to preserve the mansion and its grounds.
Greystone Mansion Opening to Public
Their efforts paid off, and in 1971, Greystone Mansion was officially opened to the public as a park and event space. Today, the mansion and its gardens are a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, offering tours, special events, and a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle of Beverly Hills' wealthy elite in the 1920s.
Greystone Mansion is a stunning and storied landmark that has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors for decades. From its origins as the home of a wealthy oil tycoon to its role as a public park and event space, the mansion has a rich and fascinating history that continues to unfold. Whether you're planning a wedding, taking a tour, or simply strolling through the gardens, Greystone Mansion is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and glamour of Beverly Hills.