Mickey Cohen House stands as a fascinating piece of Los Angeles history, capturing the essence of the gangster lifestyle and the allure of organized crime. This mansion, often referred to as a gangster mansion in Los Angeles, was home to one of the most notorious mobsters of the mid-20th century. Mickey Cohen, a name that resonates with tales of crime and glamour, transformed this residence into a fortress that reflected both his wealth and his need for security. The Mickey Cohen fortress was not just a home; it was a statement of power and influence in a city that thrived on celebrity and scandal.
As readers dive into the story of this remarkable property, they will uncover not only its architectural features but also the life of the man who called it home. If you’re interested in learning about Joseph Canizaro House, be sure to check out this article.
Who is Mickey Cohen?
Mickey Cohen, born Meyer Harris Cohen on September 4, 1914, was a prominent figure in organized crime during his time. He grew up in New York City before moving to Los Angeles, where he quickly rose through the ranks of the criminal underworld. Known for his flamboyant personality and sharp business acumen, he became the right-hand man to infamous mobster Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel. After Siegel’s assassination in 1947, Cohen took over his operations and became a leading figure in the Los Angeles crime scene.
His life was marked by violence, glamour, and numerous attempts on his life, which he navigated with a mix of bravado and cunning. Mickey’s legacy is intertwined with the history of organized crime in America, making him an enduring figure in both criminal lore and popular culture.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Meyer Harris Cohen |
| Born | September 4, 1913 |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Died | July 29, 1976 |
| Death Place | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nickname(s) | Irish Mickey, Gangster Mickey |
| Occupation | Gangster, Mob Boss |
| Notable Associations | Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky, Al Capone |
| Criminal Activities | Racketeering, gambling, extortion, tax evasion |
| Convictions | Income tax evasion (twice) |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
| Spouse(s) | Lavonne Weaver (1940–1951) |
| Children | None |
| Key Events | Became West Coast crime boss in 1947; involved in the Kefauver hearings; served time in Alcatraz. |
| Final Years | Released from prison in 1972; diagnosed with stomach cancer; died in 1976. |
Mickey Cohen House & Location
The Mickey Cohen house, located at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood, is an impressive structure that embodies the opulence associated with its former owner. This residence was more than just a place to live; it was strategically designed to serve as a fortified gangster house, equipped with advanced security measures for its time. The location itself added to its mystique—nestled in one of Los Angeles’s most desirable neighborhoods, it provided both seclusion and proximity to Hollywood’s glitzy lifestyle. The house’s design reflected Cohen’s status as a Los Angeles crime boss, combining luxury with practicality to create a space that could withstand threats from rival gangs and law enforcement alike.
Features of Mickey Cohen House
- Size: The mansion boasts an expansive layout with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Security: Equipped with state-of-the-art security systems for its time, including floodlights and alarm systems.
- Architecture: A blend of classic and modern designs that showcase luxury living.
- Location: Situated in Brentwood, offering privacy while being close to major city attractions.
- Historical Significance: Known as a hub for organized crime activities during its heyday.
House Design and Style
The design of the Mickey Cohen house reflects a unique blend of elegance and fortification. With its sprawling layout, it features spacious rooms adorned with luxurious finishes. The architecture combines elements typical of mid-century modern homes with more traditional designs, creating an inviting yet imposing presence. The fortified nature of the property included high walls and strategic landscaping that provided both beauty and security. This careful balance made it an ideal hideout for a man like Cohen, who lived under constant threat from enemies within the underworld.
Personal House Touches
Cohen’s personal touches can be seen throughout the mansion. He decorated it with lavish furnishings and art pieces that showcased his wealth and taste. Additionally, he incorporated elements that reflected his lifestyle as a mobster:
- Luxury Cars: A garage filled with high-end vehicles symbolic of his status.
- Entertainment Spaces: Areas designed for hosting lavish parties with Hollywood stars.
- Security Features: Custom installations like reinforced doors and hidden compartments for valuables.
These personal touches transformed the house into more than just a residence; they made it a reflection of his identity as one of Los Angeles’s most notorious figures.
Interior Design & Highlights
Inside the Mickey Cohen house, visitors would find an array of luxurious features that catered to both comfort and style. The interiors were designed to impress, featuring high ceilings, ornate moldings, and grand staircases. Each room told a story through its decor—whether it was the plush living room where he entertained guests or the private study where he conducted business deals. Highlights included:
- Gourmet Kitchen: Equipped for hosting large gatherings.
- Opulent Bedrooms: Spacious suites designed for relaxation.
- Stylish Living Areas: Decorated with fine art and furniture reflecting his wealth.
The overall ambiance combined sophistication with an underlying sense of danger—perfectly encapsulating Cohen’s life as a gangster.
Outdoor House Spaces
The outdoor spaces surrounding the Mickey Cohen house were just as impressive as its interiors. The property featured beautifully landscaped gardens that provided both beauty and privacy. There were patios designed for entertaining guests under the California sun, along with secure areas where Cohen could relax away from prying eyes. Notable outdoor features included:
- Swimming Pool: A luxurious addition for leisure activities.
- Gardens: Lush greenery providing tranquility amidst chaos.
- Security Perimeter: High walls ensuring privacy from outsiders.
These outdoor spaces served as both retreats from urban life and venues for extravagant parties that were characteristic of Cohen’s lifestyle.
Market Value and Comparisons
Over time, the value of the Mickey Cohen house has fluctuated significantly due to its historical significance and location within Brentwood. Originally purchased during Cohen’s reign as a mobster, it has seen various owners since then:
| Year | Owner | Purchase Price | Current Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1940s | Mickey Cohen | $50,000 | $5 million |
| 1970s | Unknown | $1 million | $3 million |
| 2020s | Recent Owner | $2 million | $6 million |
The current market value reflects not only its luxurious features but also its place in criminal history as part of Los Angeles’s rich tapestry of organized crime real estate.
Other Houses Owned by Mickey Cohen
Throughout his life, Mickey Cohen owned several properties that catered to his lavish lifestyle:
- Van Nuys Mobster Rental: A temporary residence used during various operations.
- Hollywood Hills Hideaway: A secluded spot for discreet meetings.
- Various Nightclubs: Properties used for entertainment purposes linked to his criminal enterprises.
These residences further illustrate how deeply intertwined his life was with real estate—each serving specific functions within his complex world.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mickey Cohen house is more than just a former residence; it’s a symbol of an era defined by crime, glamour, and excess in Los Angeles. From its fortified design to its luxurious interiors, every aspect tells part of Mickey’s story—a man who navigated the dangerous waters of organized crime while living life on his own terms. Today, this iconic property continues to capture imaginations as it stands testament to both the allure and peril associated with being part of America’s underworld.
FAQs about Mickey Cohen
Who was Mickey Cohen?
Mickey Cohen, born Meyer Harris Cohen on September 4, 1913, was a notorious American gangster based in Los Angeles. He became the boss of the Cohen crime family and was heavily involved in organized crime during the mid-20th century.
What was Mickey Cohen known for?
Cohen was known for his role as a mob boss in Los Angeles, particularly after the assassination of his mentor, Bugsy Siegel, in 1947. He was involved in various criminal activities, including racketeering, gambling, and extortion.
Where did Mickey Cohen grow up?
Cohen was born in Brooklyn, New York, but he moved to Los Angeles with his family at a young age. He grew up in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles.
How did Mickey Cohen get involved in organized crime?
Cohen’s involvement in organized crime began during his teenage years when he worked as an enforcer for local mobsters while boxing professionally. He later moved to Chicago and became associated with the Chicago Outfit led by Al Capone.
What happened to Mickey Cohen in prison?
Cohen was convicted of tax evasion twice—first in 1951 and again in 1961. He served time in Alcatraz and later at a federal prison in Atlanta, where he suffered a brutal attack that left him partially paralyzed.
Did Mickey Cohen have any famous friends?
Yes, Cohen had connections with many Hollywood stars and influential figures, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. He often mingled with celebrities and used these relationships to bolster his status.
When did Mickey Cohen die?
Mickey Cohen died on July 29, 1976, from stomach cancer at the age of 62.
What is the legacy of Mickey Cohen?
Cohen’s legacy is that of a quintessential gangster who embodied the glamorous yet dangerous lifestyle of organized crime in mid-20th century America. His life has been depicted in various films and documentaries, contributing to his status as a cultural icon.
Was Mickey Cohen involved in any major criminal events?
Cohen was involved in several high-profile incidents, including the infamous kidnapping of Patty Hearst (though he was never officially tied to it) and various violent conflicts with rival mobsters.
Where is Mickey Cohen buried?
Mickey Cohen is interred at Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery in Culver City, California.