Russ Columbo, known as “The Singing Valentino,” appeared at Fern Brook on Labor Day 1932 - as famous in his time as Bing Crosby and Rudy Vallee.  His base was Hollywood and he was involved with Carole Lombard, future wife of Clark Gable.

Two years after his local appearance Columbo died in mysterious circumstances after completing a film “Wake Up and Dream.”  Columbo was fatally shot at the home of photographer Lansing Brown.  The two were apparently examining antique pistols when one was fired.

It was never resolved whether the fatal shot was an accident - or otherwise. Columbo’s mother, who had a serious heart ailment, was never told of her son’s death.  She survived another 10 years.next