What is Hollywood's primary identity and nickname?

Hollywood is known as a neighborhood and district within Los Angeles, California, and its name has become synonymous with the U.S. film industry. It is also informally referred to as Tinseltown.

Which major film studios are located in or near Hollywood?

Several notable film studios are situated in or close to Hollywood, including Sony Pictures, Walt Disney Studios, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., and Universal Pictures.

When was Hollywood incorporated as a municipality, and when did parts of it merge with Los Angeles?

Hollywood was incorporated as a municipality in 1903. The northern and eastern sections of the neighborhood were later consolidated with the City of Los Angeles in 1910.

Who was H. J. Whitley, and what role did he play in Hollywood's initial development?

H. J. Whitley was a real estate developer who purchased the E.C. Hurd ranch, comprising 480 acres, and arranged for its development. He shared his plans for the new town with prominent figures like Harrison Gray Otis and Ivar Weid, and he played a significant role in promoting the area by investing in infrastructure like electricity and roads.

How did the name 'Hollywood' originate for the Los Angeles neighborhood?

Daeida Wilcox, who donated land for the area's development, is credited with choosing the name 'Hollywood.' She reportedly heard the name from an acquaintance who owned an estate with the same name in Illinois and found the name appealing, believing 'holly brings good luck'.

What was the state of Hollywood's infrastructure and amenities by the year 1900?

By 1900, Hollywood had established basic amenities including a post office, a newspaper, a hotel, and two markets. Los Angeles was located about 10 miles away, accessible via a single-track streetcar line that ran infrequently down Prospect Avenue.

What was the significance of the Hollywood Hotel, opened in 1902?

The Hollywood Hotel, opened by H. J. Whitley, was built to attract land buyers and quickly became a well-known establishment. It served as a hub for civic and social life and was a popular residence for movie stars for many years.

Why did Hollywood vote to merge with the City of Los Angeles in 1910?

In 1910, Hollywood residents voted to merge with Los Angeles primarily to secure a more adequate water supply and to gain access to the city's sewer system.

What changes occurred to Hollywood's street names and numbering system after its annexation by Los Angeles?

Following annexation in 1910, Prospect Avenue was renamed Hollywood Boulevard, and all street numbers within the district were changed to align with the Los Angeles system. For instance, 100 Prospect Avenue at Vermont Avenue became 6400 Hollywood Boulevard.

What factors led the motion picture industry to relocate to Hollywood in the early 20th century?

Filmmakers moved west to escape Thomas Edison's Motion Picture Patents Company, which held key patents and frequently sued producers. Los Angeles offered a more favorable environment for evading these patent enforcements, combined with ideal weather conditions and diverse geographical settings suitable for filming.

Who filmed the first motion picture in Hollywood, and what was the film?

D. W. Griffith filmed the first motion picture in Hollywood, a 17-minute short titled 'In Old California' (1910), for the Biograph Company.

When was the first movie studio established in Hollywood, and by whom?

The Nestor Film Company, established by the Centaur Film Company, opened Hollywood's first movie studio in October 1911. It was located in a roadhouse at 6121 Sunset Boulevard, at the corner of Gower Street.

How significant was the film industry to Hollywood's economy in the 1920s?

By the 1920s, the film industry had become a major economic force in Hollywood, ranking as the fifth-largest industry in the nation during that decade.

What was the origin and subsequent modification of the 'HOLLYWOODLAND' sign?

The 'HOLLYWOODLAND' sign was erected in the Hollywood Hills in 1923 to advertise a housing development. In 1949, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce repaired and rebuilt the sign, removing the 'LAND' portion so it would read 'HOLLYWOOD' and represent the district.

What major transportation infrastructure project passed through Hollywood in the early 1950s?

The State of California constructed the Hollywood Freeway through the northeast corner of Hollywood during the early 1950s.

When was the Hollywood Walk of Fame created, and what is its purpose?

The Hollywood Walk of Fame was created in 1958 as a tribute to artists and other significant contributors to the entertainment industry. Its official opening ceremony took place on February 8, 1960.

When did the Hollywood extension of the Los Angeles Metro Rail Red Line open, and what are its key stops?

The Hollywood extension of the Los Angeles Metro Rail Red Line subway opened in June 1999. It connects Downtown Los Angeles to the San Fernando Valley, with stops along Hollywood Boulevard at Western Avenue (Hollywood/Western), Vine Street (Hollywood/Vine), and Highland Avenue (Hollywood/Highland).

What is the Dolby Theatre, and why is it notable?

The Dolby Theatre, originally known as the Kodak Theatre, opened in 2001 and is located at the Hollywood & Highland Center. It is notable for being the venue that hosts the annual Academy Awards ceremonies since 2002.

What challenges did Hollywood face in the 1980s, and what has contributed to its revitalization?

In the 1980s, Hollywood experienced a period of decline marked by crime, drugs, and increasing poverty, which threatened many of its historic landmarks. Since 2000, revitalization efforts by private enterprises and public planners, including new development projects and increased hotel rooms, have led to the area's gentrification.

What was the outcome of the secession movement in Hollywood in 2002?

In 2002, a campaign for Hollywood to secede from Los Angeles was put to a vote. However, the secession measures failed by wide margins in the citywide vote, requiring approval from both the proposed new municipality and the entirety of Los Angeles to pass.

According to the Mapping L.A. project, what are the geographical boundaries of Hollywood?

Hollywood is bordered by the Hollywood Hills to the north, Los Feliz to the northeast, East Hollywood or Virgil Village to the east, Larchmont and Hancock Park to the south, Fairfax to the southwest, West Hollywood to the west, and Hollywood Hills West to the northwest.

What was the purpose of the Whitley Heights development, commissioned in 1918?

Whitley Heights, designed by architect A. S. Barnes, was developed as a Mediterranean-style village on the hills above Hollywood Boulevard. It became recognized as the first celebrity community.

What is the climate classification for Hollywood, California?

Hollywood experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, classified as 'Csa' under the Köppen climate classification, or alternatively, a dry-summer subtropical climate.

Describe the typical winter and summer weather patterns in Hollywood.

Winters in Hollywood are generally mild with light rain, though sunny and warm days are common. Summers are hot, sunny, and dry, with minimal rainfall between April and October, and temperatures are typically cooler than those in the San Fernando Valley.

What phenomenon can occur in Hollywood during May and June, and what is it called?

During May and June, Hollywood can experience foggy and cloudy conditions, a weather pattern commonly known by Southern California residents as 'May Gray' or 'June Gloom'.

What were the record high and low temperatures recorded in Hollywood?

The all-time record high temperature in Hollywood is 112 °F (44 °C), recorded on June 26, 1990. The record low temperature is 24 °F (−4 °C), which occurred on both December 8, 1978, and December 23, 1990.

What was the population density of the Hollywood neighborhood according to the 2000 U.S. census?

According to the 2000 U.S. census, the Hollywood neighborhood had a population density of 22,193 people per square mile (8,569 people/km²), making it the seventh-densest neighborhood in Los Angeles County.

What was the ethnic breakdown of Hollywood's population in 2000?

In 2000, Hollywood's population was ethnically diverse, with 42.2% identifying as Latino or Hispanic, 41% as Non-Hispanic White, 7.1% as Asian, 5.2% as Black, and 4.5% as other.

What was the median household income in Hollywood in 2008, and how did it compare to the city average?

In 2008, the median household income in Hollywood was $33,694, which was considered low compared to the median income for Los Angeles as a whole.

What percentage of housing units in Hollywood were occupied by renters in 2008?

Renters occupied a significant majority of housing units in Hollywood, accounting for 92.4% in 2008.

How many homeless individuals were counted in Hollywood in 2022?

In 2022, a total of 1,374 homeless individuals were counted within the Hollywood area.

When did the first commercial television station west of the Mississippi River begin operating in Hollywood?

The first commercial television station west of the Mississippi River, KTLA, commenced operations in Hollywood on January 22, 1947.

What was the first network television series to be filmed in Hollywood?

The first network television series filmed in Hollywood was 'The Public Prosecutor,' which began production in December 1947.

Does Hollywood have its own municipal government?

No, Hollywood does not have its own municipal government as it is a neighborhood located within the city limits of Los Angeles.

Who held the ceremonial position of 'Mayor of Hollywood' from 1980 until 2008?

Johnny Grant served as the honorary 'Mayor of Hollywood' from 1980 until his passing on January 9, 2008. This position is appointed by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

Which Los Angeles Police Department station serves the Hollywood area?

The Hollywood area is served by the Hollywood police station, which is located at 1358 N. Wilcox Avenue.

How many fire stations does the Los Angeles Fire Department operate within Hollywood?

The Los Angeles Fire Department operates four fire stations in the Hollywood area: Stations 27, 41, 52, and 82.

Which school district operates the public schools in Hollywood?

The public schools serving the Hollywood area are operated by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).

What is the significance of the Grauman's Chinese Theatre image caption?

The image caption refers to Grauman's Chinese Theatre as it appeared before 2007, highlighting a specific historical period for this iconic landmark.

What is the significance of the Hollywood Walk of Fame image caption?

The image caption indicates that the photograph shows the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous landmark where stars are embedded in the sidewalks to honor entertainment industry figures.

What does the image of the Dolby Theatre represent?

The image shows the Dolby Theatre, a venue well-known for hosting the annual Academy Awards ceremonies.

What does the image of Crossroads of the World depict?

The image depicts Crossroads of the World, a historic building complex in Hollywood that was one of the first designed as a drive-through shopping mall.

What event is honored annually at the Dolby Theatre?

The annual Academy Awards, which recognize achievements in the film industry from the preceding year, are honored at the Dolby Theatre.

What is the Hollywood Christmas Parade, and how is it broadcast?

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is an annual event that proceeds down Hollywood Boulevard. It is broadcast in the Los Angeles area on KTLA and also aired across the United States on Tribune-owned stations and the WGN superstation.

What is the purpose of the Hollywood Half Marathon?

The Hollywood Half Marathon, which began in 2012, serves to raise funds and awareness for local youth homeless shelters. The event includes various running distances along Hollywood Boulevard.

What was the outcome of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce's attempt to trademark the name 'Hollywood' in 1994?

In 1994, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce attempted to trademark the name 'Hollywood,' but this effort was successfully challenged by Hollywood, Alabama, and ten other similarly named towns.

What is the significance of the Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District being listed on the National Register of Historic Places?

The listing of the Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 acknowledges its historical and cultural significance.

What is the Hollywood Sign, and where is it located?

The Hollywood Sign is an iconic landmark located in the Hollywood Hills. Originally reading 'HOLLYWOODLAND,' it was erected in 1923 and later modified to spell 'HOLLYWOOD'.

What are the primary climate characteristics of Hollywood, California?

Hollywood features a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Spring and fall are typically pleasant, though Santa Ana winds can increase wildfire risk in fall and winter, and smog can occur in summer.

Hollywood Los Angeles Wiki: Hollywood: The Dream Factory Unveiled

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A Storied Past

Early Settlement

Originally a small agricultural community, Hollywood was founded in the late 19th century. Real estate developer H. J. Whitley is credited with naming the area and laying out its initial plans, envisioning it as a tranquil residential community.

H. J. Whitley purchased land in 1887, naming it after an acquaintance's estate in Illinois. By 1900, Hollywood had basic amenities like a post office and a hotel. The development was further spurred by the construction of the Hollywood Hotel in 1902 and Whitley's efforts to install infrastructure like electricity.

Rise of Cinema

The burgeoning film industry, seeking to escape Thomas Edison's patent control in New Jersey, began migrating westward in the early 1900s. Hollywood's favorable climate, diverse landscapes, and relative freedom from patent enforcement made it an ideal location.

D. W. Griffith filmed the first motion picture in Hollywood in 1910. By 1913, the first movie studio, Nestor Studios, opened. Major studios like Paramount, Warner Bros., and Universal soon followed, solidifying Hollywood's reputation as the "dream factory" and the center of American cinema.

Iconic Landmarks

The area's identity is deeply tied to its landmarks. The Hollywood Sign, originally advertising a housing development, was famously shortened and became an international symbol. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, established in 1958, celebrates entertainment industry achievements.

Other significant landmarks include the Grauman's Chinese Theatre (now TCL Chinese Theatre), the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars), and the Capitol Records Building. The Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Development & Revitalization

Hollywood underwent significant development, including the construction of the Hollywood Freeway and the expansion of the Metro Rail system. After a period of decline in the 1980s, the neighborhood has seen revitalization efforts, attracting new businesses and residential projects.

Efforts to combat crime and poverty have led to gentrification and new developments, such as the Columbia Square complex and the Hollywood & Highland Center. Despite challenges, Hollywood continues to evolve as a major cultural and economic hub.

Geographic Footprint

Location & Boundaries

Hollywood is situated in the central region of Los Angeles County, within the city of Los Angeles. It is bordered by the Hollywood Hills to the north and several other distinct Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Key boundaries include:

North: Hollywood Hills
Northeast: Los Feliz
East: East Hollywood / Virgil Village
South: Larchmont, Hancock Park
Southwest: Fairfax
West: West Hollywood
Northwest: Hollywood Hills West

Street limits are generally defined by Hollywood Boulevard, Franklin Avenue, Western Avenue, Melrose Avenue, and La Brea Avenue.

Diverse Districts

Within the broader Hollywood area, several distinct districts and communities contribute to its unique character, each with its own cultural identity.

Notable sub-areas include:

Franklin Village
Little Armenia
Spaulding Square
Thai Town
Yucca Corridor
Whitley Heights (Hollywood's first celebrity community)

Climate Profile

Mediterranean Influence

Hollywood experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures compared to inland areas.

Climate Data for Hollywood, Los Angeles, California
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg. High (°F)	67.5	67.8	69.1	71.7	73.4	76.8	81.7	83.2	82.1	77.7	72.2	67.1
Avg. Low (°F)	48.1	49.0	50.7	53.0	56.6	59.8	63.3	63.7	62.4	58.2	52.1	47.6
Precip. (in)	3.47	3.81	3.24	0.85	0.31	0.07	0.02	0.14	0.35	0.39	1.16	1.98

Data sourced from Wikipedia climate charts.

Seasonal Phenomena

The region experiences distinct seasonal patterns, including the potential for "May Gray" and "June Gloom" fog during late spring and early summer, and the influence of Santa Ana winds in fall and winter.

Santa Ana winds can increase temperatures, lower humidity, and elevate wildfire risk. Smog can occasionally affect air quality during summer months. The coastal influence keeps summer temperatures generally milder than in the inland valleys.

Community Fabric

Population & Density

Hollywood is a densely populated neighborhood, ranking among the highest in Los Angeles County. Its population has seen growth over the decades, reflecting its status as a vibrant urban center.

As of the 2000 census, Hollywood had a population of 77,818 within approximately 3.51 square miles, resulting in a density of 22,193 people per square mile. City estimates placed the population around 85,489 by 2008.

Cultural Diversity

Hollywood is characterized by its significant ethnic diversity, with substantial Latino/Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White populations, alongside Asian and Black communities. A notable percentage of residents are foreign-born.

In 2000, the ethnic breakdown was approximately 42.2% Latino/Hispanic, 41% Non-Hispanic White, 7.1% Asian, and 5.2% Black. Mexico and Guatemala were the most common countries of origin for foreign-born residents.

Socioeconomic Profile

The median household income in Hollywood is generally lower than the Los Angeles average, with a high percentage of renters occupying housing units. Homelessness is also a noted issue within the community.

The median household income was estimated around $33,694 in 2008. Renters occupied about 92.4% of housing units. In 2022, approximately 1,374 individuals were identified as homeless in Hollywood.

Civic Structure

Municipal Integration

As a neighborhood within the City of Los Angeles, Hollywood does not possess its own municipal government. It is served by the city's administrative and public service structures.

The area is governed by the City of Los Angeles, with services provided by various city departments. An honorary "Mayor of Hollywood" has historically served ceremonial roles, with Johnny Grant holding the position from 1980 until 2008.

Public Services

Essential public services, including policing, fire protection, and health services, are provided by city and county agencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.

Police services are managed by the Los Angeles Police Department (Hollywood station). Fire protection is provided by the Los Angeles Fire Department (Stations 27, 41, 52, 82). Health services are available through the Hollywood-Wilshire Health Center.

Community Representation

Neighborhood councils play a role in local governance, providing advisory input on zoning, planning, and community issues, with representation from residents and stakeholders.

Key councils include the Hollywood United Neighborhood Council, Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council, and Hollywood Studio District Neighborhood Council. These bodies facilitate community engagement and advocacy.

Learning & Culture

Educational Institutions

Hollywood is served by a range of educational institutions, from public schools and libraries to specialized colleges focusing on the arts and media.

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) operates numerous public schools in the area. The Los Angeles Public Library system maintains several branches, including the Frances Howard Goldwyn – Hollywood Regional Branch.

Arts & Media Colleges

Several prominent institutions cater to aspiring professionals in film, television, and music production, reinforcing Hollywood's status as an industry training ground.

Notable colleges include the AFI Conservatory, Emerson College ELA-Hollywood Center, Los Angeles City College, the Los Angeles Film School, and the Los Angeles Recording School.

Iconic Landmarks

Theaters & Studios

Hollywood boasts numerous historic theaters and legendary studios that have hosted countless cinematic milestones and performances.

TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman's)
Dolby Theatre
El Capitan Theatre
Pantages Theatre
Hollywood Palladium
Charlie Chaplin Studios / Jim Henson Studios
Sunset Gower Studios

Walk of Fame & Sign

The Hollywood Walk of Fame immortalizes entertainment figures with stars along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. The iconic Hollywood Sign, perched in the hills, remains a global symbol of the city's glamour.

The Walk of Fame, created in 1958, features over 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars. The Hollywood Sign, originally "HOLLYWOODLAND," was erected in 1923 and later modified.

Historic Hotels

Several hotels have played significant roles in Hollywood's history, serving as gathering places for stars and contributing to the area's allure.

Hollywood Hotel (historic site of Hollywood & Highland Center)
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
Knickerbocker Hotel

Annual Celebrations

Academy Awards

Since 2002, Hollywood has been the host city for the annual Academy Awards (Oscars), celebrating cinematic excellence at the Dolby Theatre.

The prestigious ceremony honors achievements in film, drawing global attention to Hollywood. The event has been held at the Dolby Theatre since 2002, with a notable exception in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Christmas Parade

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is a long-standing tradition, marching down Hollywood Boulevard and broadcast nationally, marking the festive season.

This annual event, dating back decades, features floats, celebrities, and musical performances, contributing to Hollywood's festive atmosphere.

Fitness & Community

The Hollywood Half Marathon event, including various race distances, supports local youth homeless shelters and promotes community engagement through athletic activity.

Launched in 2012, this event typically takes place in April, offering races like a Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, all contributing to charitable causes.

Visual Showcase

TCL Chinese Theatre

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Dolby Theatre

Crossroads of the World

Metro Rail Station

Henson Studios

Hollywood Boulevard Bus

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Hotel Roosevelt

Further Exploration

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References

Hayward, Susan. "Hollywood" in Cinema Studies: The Key Concepts (Third Edition). Routledge, 2006. p. 205

Climate. Los Angeles Best Places

A full list of references for this article are available at the Hollywood, Los Angeles Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding history, urban planning, or cultural analysis. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Hollywood: The Dream Factory Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past 📜

🏡 Early Settlement

🎬 Rise of Cinema

🌟 Iconic Landmarks

🏗️ Development & Revitalization

Geographic Footprint 🗺️

📍 Location & Boundaries

🏘️ Diverse Districts

Climate Profile ☀️

🌡️ Mediterranean Influence

🌬️ Seasonal Phenomena

Community Fabric 👥

📈 Population & Density

🌍 Cultural Diversity

💰 Socioeconomic Profile

Civic Structure 🏛️

🏙️ Municipal Integration

🚨 Public Services

🗳️ Community Representation

Learning & Culture 🎓

📚 Educational Institutions

🎥 Arts & Media Colleges

Iconic Landmarks 🌟

🎭 Theaters & Studios

🚶 Walk of Fame & Sign

🏨 Historic Hotels

Annual Celebrations 🎉

🏆 Academy Awards

🎄 Christmas Parade

🏃 Fitness & Community

Visual Showcase 🖼️

Further Exploration 🔗

📖 Related Topics

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Early Settlement

Rise of Cinema

Iconic Landmarks

Development & Revitalization

Geographic Footprint

Location & Boundaries

Diverse Districts

Climate Profile

Mediterranean Influence

Seasonal Phenomena

Community Fabric

Population & Density

Cultural Diversity

Socioeconomic Profile

Civic Structure

Municipal Integration

Public Services

Community Representation

Learning & Culture

Educational Institutions

Arts & Media Colleges

Iconic Landmarks

Theaters & Studios

Walk of Fame & Sign

Historic Hotels

Annual Celebrations

Academy Awards

Christmas Parade

Fitness & Community

Visual Showcase

Further Exploration

Related Topics

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice