"A man's home is his castle" as the old proverb states, yet in the case of Edward Doheny's home it was both a castle and a mansion. The resplendent edifice at 8 Chester Place incorporates a fascinating history as well as displaying a magnificent style of architecture and furnishings.

In "The Doheny Mansion: A Biography of a Home," author Mary Ann Bonino, curator of the mansion, has meticulously researched innumerable historical details regarding individual lives besides the captivating description of the accoutrements that epitomize this architectural monument. The 192-page volume incorporates copious new photos and delineates the intricate, and at times revealing, details of the "procession of international movers and shakers" of another era.

Although the Doheny story is well known --- Edward, "the millionaire extraordinaire," and his wife, Estelle, noted book collector and philanthropist --- this well-written history also contains perky sparks of humor, related historical insights and individual characterizations that are intriguing and revealing.

A few pertinent facts that add to this extraordinary history: Edward Doheny purchased the furnished mansion in 1901 from Oliver and Sara Posey for $125,000; Estelle, later named a Papal Countess, was his second wife; Edward dug his first oil well in 1892; by 1920 his wealth exceeded $150 million.

Their combined generosity to the Catholic Church, USC, Loyola Marymount University, St. John's Seminary and various other charities continues today as does the magnificent mansion on Mount St. Mary's Doheny campus south of downtown Los Angeles. Docent-led tours are available, but reading this well-documented book would be an invaluable aid for appropriate appreciation.

For information, call (310) 954-4330 or visit www.dohenymansion.org/index.html.