One of America’s greatest early comedic actresses was born in Fort Wayne. Nestled in the historical West Central neighborhood downtown stands a quaint blue house, a now, historical landmark. At 704 Rockhill Street near the St. Mary's River, this two-story home was the birth place of Carole Lombard, The Carole Lombard House.
Though it is privately owned, and has been operated as a bed and breakfast, this house has been kept in its original condition through the decades. More information on the house can be found on the website. No longer operating as a bed and breakfast, though it is a private residence, tours are available upon request. The house has been named a historical landmark
In 1930 Lombard began landing roles more suited to her brash and quick witted personality. Many of her films are listed in the genre known as screwball comedy film. To her credit, Carole Lombard was featured in over 60 films, and 25 shorts. Her most notable performances were her roles in ‘To Be or Not to Be’, ‘My Man Godfrey’, and ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’. Staring alongside such names as Jack Benny, Clark Gable, and Jimmy Stewart, Lombard was the most sought after and highest paid female stars of her day.
Though her time in Fort Wayne was short, Lombard has not been forgotten there. The Carole Lombard House stands a mere two blocks from the “Carole Lombard Memorial Bridge”. Also, the people of Fort Wayne dedicated a start on their walk of fame to Lombard, situated in front of the historic Embassy Theater, also downtown.
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