Ford Compound Up For Sale For $1.699 Million

The mid-century-styled home of the late President Gerald R. Ford and his wife is up for sale for $1.699 million, a Realtor announced today.

The 6,316-square-foot estate looks over the 13th fairway of the Thunderbird Country Club, and served as the California retreat for the couple after leaving the White House, according to Realtor Nelda Linsk of HK Lane Real Estate.

Former First Lady Betty Ford died last year, at the age of 93, and a was held at in Palm Desert. President Ford passed away Dec. 26, 2006 at the age of 93.

Former Ambassador Leonard Firestone, also a Rancho Mirage resident and Ford friend, sold the property at 40471 Sand Dune Rd. to the Fords, Linsk said. The Fords built the home in 1979 as a gated family compound on 1.37 acres.

Architect Welton Becket, credited by many as the architect who shaped mid-twentieth century architecture of Los Angeles provided plans for the single-story, flat-roof compound. The contractor was former Palm Springs Mayor Bill Foster.

The original furniture, which may be purchased separately, fills the home's six bedrooms, four bathrooms, three partial baths and his and hers offices, she said.

A large swimming pool was built to allow President Ford to swim daily, according to Linsk, who sold the late Frank Sinatra's home to Canadian billionaire Jim Pattison.

President Ford met with visitors and the media in his “official office,” a 5,284-square-foot house just up the road on Sand Dune Road, is also up for sale at $509,000. It was once owned by Hollywood legend Ginger Rogers, also served as the Command Post for U.S. Secret Service agents protecting President and Mrs. Ford. 

The estate also boasts an original sculpture from New York artist Paul Von Ringelheim. “Endless Force” symbolizes the past, present and future of America.  It was a gift to President Ford.

For more information about the Ford compound, please contact Nelda Linsk at (760) 774-6619 or Lindell Campbell, (706) 408-1876.