Racquet Club of Palm Springs facts for kids
| Location | 2743 N. Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, California |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 33°51′18″N 116°32′46″W / 33.855°N 116.546°W |
| Owner | Olivia Communities |
| Construction | |
| Opened | 1934 |
| Renovated | 1977, 1999 |
| Closed | 2014 |
| Construction cost | $78,000 (1934 investment) |
| Architect | Albert Frey "Schiff House" and bungalows |
The Racquet Club was a very popular resort in Palm Springs, California. It was started by two actors, Charles Farrell and Ralph Bellamy. The club first opened its doors on December 15, 1934. It began with two tennis courts. Over time, it grew to include a swimming pool, a bar called the "Bamboo Room," and many bungalows. More tennis courts were also added.
Julie Copeland was the club's hostess for a very long time. Frank Bogert, who later became the Mayor of Palm Springs, was an early manager.
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A Famous Place for Tennis Stars and Hollywood Fun
The Racquet Club became a favorite spot for many famous people. It was known for both tennis and parties.
Tennis Legends Played Here
Many champion tennis players competed at the club. Some of these famous athletes included Arthur Ashe, Jimmy Connors, and Billie Jean King. Other stars like Chris Evert, Rod Laver, and Bobby Riggs also played there. The club was a big part of tennis history.
Hollywood's Favorite Party Spot
Beyond tennis, the Racquet Club was a top gathering place. Many movie stars and important people from Hollywood came to party. It was a place where show business elite could relax and have fun.
The Club's Later Years
The Racquet Club even hosted a big tennis event, the 1975 Davis Cup Americas Zone. After this, the club started to decline. Sadly, a large fire happened on July 23, 2014. The club was completely torn down after the fire.
The Racquet Club in Movies and TV
The Racquet Club was so famous that it appeared in popular media.
On the Radio
The radio show The Jack Benny Program had an episode about the club. It was called "Murder at the Racquet Club." This episode aired on March 9, 1941.
In a Short Film
A short film from 1954, called Star Studded Ride, featured the club. Tennis stars Gussie Moran and Dave Gillam were shown at the Racquet Club in the film.
Marilyn Monroe's First Photos
The famous photographer Bruno Bernard took some of the first pictures of Marilyn Monroe at the Racquet Club in 1947. It was also at the club's pool that she met Johnny Hyde, a talent agent who helped her career.
