A historic South Tampa home once owned by cigar royalty is now for sale in Beach Park.
Located at 5020 S Shore Crest Cir., the Spanish Mediterranean mansion is referred to as "Vista Del Lago," and was built in 1925. The home was famously owned by Carlotta Cuesta, heiress to Tampa's Cuesta Cigars.
In 1928, Carlotta married hotel magnate Arnold S. Kirkeby, and the two would host lavish parties at Vista Del Lago. However, the couple did not live there long. A few years later, the Kirkebys moved to Arnold's hometown of Chicago, and ultimately ended up in Beverly Hills, where they purchased the famous Chartwell Mansion.
Some readers of a certain age might remember the Chartwell Mansion as the home used as the exterior set for the CBS television show "The Beverly Hillbillies," and it was also featured in Jerry Lewis' 1960 film "Cinderfella."
After the Kirkebys, Vista Del Lago had a number of owners over the years, one of whom was Welburn Guernsey, who is credited with inventing the double-wide trailer and also created Guernsey City (now called Regency Cove).
Today, the two-story, 7,545-square-foot Vista Del Lago comes with a total of six bedrooms and six bathrooms, as well as a Marie Theresa chandelier, decorative molded ceilings, a multiple fireplaces, three "Juliet" balconies, a two-car garage, a game room, a separate guest cottage, and a 65-foot lap pool with a three-story diving tower.
"This iconic home and property is a treasure trove of history and luxury, offering a rare blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities," said listing agent Jeannie Wolfe of Smith & Associates in a statement.
Vista Del Lago is currently asking $6,125,000.
