In the heart of La Paz, Baja California Sur, a story unfolds that highlights the deep connection between the legendary American singer and actor Bing Crosby and this tranquil corner of Mexico. Though his work and contributions to the region remain underappreciated by many, journalist Cuauhtémoc Morgan has long championed Crosby’s legacy in La Paz.
In 2006, Morgan made an unusual proposal to the La Paz City Council: to name a street or park after Bing Crosby. The request, though well-intentioned, was met with skepticism and ultimately dismissed. Undeterred, Morgan penned a report detailing Crosby’s impact on La Paz, distributing it to cultural institutions across the city in hopes of sparking interest. However, his efforts at the time yielded no tangible results.
Nearly two decades later, Morgan revisited Crosby’s legacy, sharing a compelling video on TikTok that has garnered widespread acclaim. The video shed light on Crosby’s remarkable ties to La Paz and the Gulf of California, sparking a newfound appreciation for the artist’s contributions.
A Love for La Paz
In 1960, Bing Crosby built a residence in Las Cruces, a budding tourist destination near La Paz. He referred to his time there as “the happiest moments of his life.” His connection to the area extended beyond leisure; Crosby was a benefactor for students from the University of San Luis Gonzaga in Spokane, Washington, funding their internships in the Gulf of California and on Espíritu Santo Island. To support their work, he even provided access to his fishing boats.
Crosby’s contributions to science were commemorated when two newly discovered species were named in his honor, a testament to his influence in the region.
A Heart for Humanitarian Efforts
As a devout Catholic, Crosby formed strong ties with the Comboni missionaries in La Paz. In 1961, he collaborated with Father Carlos Toncini and the territorial government to establish the “Ciudad de los Niños” orphanage atop Colina de la Cruz. This project involved converting abandoned homes into a safe haven for homeless children, a cause close to Crosby’s heart. He also partnered with Father Luis Ruggera to provide aid to La Paz’s poorest residents.
Crosby’s generosity extended to equipping a printing shop managed by Father José Menegotto. This facility became the most important in La Paz, training a generation of young artisans who later founded their own businesses in graphic arts.
A Brush with Disaster
In September 1976, Crosby faced a near-fatal encounter with Hurricane Liza while driving to Las Cruces. Forced to turn back, he sought refuge at the Gran Baja Hotel in La Paz. His daughter Kathryn Crosby later recounted the harrowing experience, calling it a miracle that he survived. In the hurricane’s aftermath, Crosby organized an airlift of aid from Los Angeles to assist the devastated city, leveraging his Hollywood connections to deliver much-needed support.
A Legacy Remembered
Bing Crosby passed away in 1977 while playing golf in Spain, but his impact on La Paz endures. Through his philanthropy and dedication, Crosby left an indelible mark on the region, from empowering local youth to aiding the most vulnerable. Thanks to journalists like Cuauhtémoc Morgan, his contributions are finally receiving the recognition they deserve, bringing to light a unique chapter in the life of one of America’s most iconic performers.
@morganmexico #BINGCROSBY #CIUDADDELOSNIÑOS #COMBONIANOS #LAPAZBCS #NAVIDAD #BLANCANAVIDAD #FYP #WHITECHRISTMAS #HURACANLIZA ♬ sonido original - Cuauhtémoc Morgan
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