Shirley Temple, Johnny Cash, Al Capone Lived Here On The Cottee River In New Port Richey, Sort Of

In New Port Richey, there's a big, beautiful pink stucco home right on the Cottee River. Shirly Temple used to swim and play right on the banks. It's true; ask any boat tour captain!

A friend of mine took a tour of the Cottee a few years ago, and sure enough, the beautiful mansion with its archways and terra cotta terazzo is one of the most popular houses on the tour. Despite occasional updates, the mansion retains the glitzy feel of the 1930s. Our little city, often referred to as "Hollywood's Little Sister," weaves grand stories out of time. But, there were actually a bunch of famous people here. Truth be told, if Shirly Temple hung out at this home, it wasn't hers. It may have been her aunt's.

"Shirley Temple's House" on the Cottee RiverPhoto byAbandonedReclamation

There are also whispers of homes belonging to Gloria Swanson, Joe Kennedy Sr.'s girlfriend. They reportedly spent a significant amount of time at Moon Lake Lodge & Gardens, even paving Massachusetts Ave. for easier access. This was also the case for Charlie Chaplin, Johnny Cash, and even Al Capone.

I think every great city has its legends; what have you heard?

*This is a first hand account of stories told to me growing up in New Port Richey, and are not meant to be anything but informative and fun regarding amazing history and legends here among the sand and sun.

**These are private residences, please do not tresspass on private property.