Rowan
2005-08-12 03:09:30 UTC
I have been researching an old Hollywood Hills estate and recently
confirmed that it was once owned by silent film writer/director John W.
"Jack" McDermott (1892-1946). I know he bought the property in 1937,
possibly after the Depression forced the previous owner into default.
In 1946, when Jack died at age 54, the property passed to E. J.
McDermott, who may have the younger brother, Edward. I am trying to
find some biographical info about him other than what shows up at IMDB.
Ultimately I would like to contact descendants if that should prove
possible...I don't know if Jack married and/or had children.
Can anyone provide or point me toward further infoprmation about this
gentleman? Googling him certainly turns up an intriguiung anecdote
(though I would like to verify it):
"Jack McDermott was a Hollywood film writer and director during
the 1920s and 1930s. McDermott is described as one the "biggest
jokester in Hollywood film history".
"One of McDermott's favorite gags was to take a guest for a ride in
his Model T Ford. He would drive recklessly through the mountains, and
when his passenger complained he would yank the steering wheel from its
column and throw it out the window -- the car was actually steered by
specially-installed foot controls.
"It is also said that the McDermott home was known for wild parties.
The house featured secret tunnels and sliding panels, and one very
special room where everything was upside down. Rugs and furniture were
fastened to the ceiling, and drapes, pictures, and even the chandelier
hung 'upwards'. McDermott deposited inebriated party-goers there and
would watch through peepholes as they came came to in the disorienting
chamber."
I might know where the scant remains of that house are, but I need to
know more about Mr. McDermott to be sure.
Thanks.
Rowan
confirmed that it was once owned by silent film writer/director John W.
"Jack" McDermott (1892-1946). I know he bought the property in 1937,
possibly after the Depression forced the previous owner into default.
In 1946, when Jack died at age 54, the property passed to E. J.
McDermott, who may have the younger brother, Edward. I am trying to
find some biographical info about him other than what shows up at IMDB.
Ultimately I would like to contact descendants if that should prove
possible...I don't know if Jack married and/or had children.
Can anyone provide or point me toward further infoprmation about this
gentleman? Googling him certainly turns up an intriguiung anecdote
(though I would like to verify it):
"Jack McDermott was a Hollywood film writer and director during
the 1920s and 1930s. McDermott is described as one the "biggest
jokester in Hollywood film history".
"One of McDermott's favorite gags was to take a guest for a ride in
his Model T Ford. He would drive recklessly through the mountains, and
when his passenger complained he would yank the steering wheel from its
column and throw it out the window -- the car was actually steered by
specially-installed foot controls.
"It is also said that the McDermott home was known for wild parties.
The house featured secret tunnels and sliding panels, and one very
special room where everything was upside down. Rugs and furniture were
fastened to the ceiling, and drapes, pictures, and even the chandelier
hung 'upwards'. McDermott deposited inebriated party-goers there and
would watch through peepholes as they came came to in the disorienting
chamber."
I might know where the scant remains of that house are, but I need to
know more about Mr. McDermott to be sure.
Thanks.
Rowan