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Home , If We Only Knew, Jan Sterling, Kalem Company, On the Lot, Rod Taylor, Sol Lesser

The publication of Heritage, a non-profit organization dedicated to the pres- ervation of Hollywood through its architecture and the history of the Summer 2002 www.hollywoodheritage.org Volume 21, Number 2 motion picture industry. Lawsuit Update Final Arguments to Save Hollywood Bowl Submitted By Robert W. Nudelman historic 1929 orchestra shell (the lic ownership (as well as devastat- On June 3, Hollywood attorney newsletter is also available on the ing many safeguards for parks, Lawrence Teeter filed our response web site). Our latest response tar- open spaces, impacts from large to strongly refute the arguments of geted several areas. This has been developments and other quality of the Philharmonic As- done to both protect the shell as life issues protected under CEQA). sociation (LAPA) and Los Angeles well as to stop the County from Highlights of our response in- County (defendants) in the State of gutting the protective status his- clude a detailed breakdown and Court of Appeals. The toric structures have in California rebuttal of the County and LAPA’s document is available on our web under the California Environmental arguments that only a “new shell” site. Quality Act (CEQA). will make good music possible at Hollywood Heritage’s last news- Such legal precedent as attempted the Bowl. This was used as the letter outlined several of the Coun- here to circumvent CEQA would “Statement of Overriding Consid- ty’s and the LAPA’s arguments to endanger thousands of historic erations” (SOC), which is the sole proceed with the demolition of the structures in both private and pub- legal reason the defendants adopted continued on page  87 years later ABC Television Center Studio Lot is Reborn By Marc Wanamaker original 1915 buildings that still ex- he old ABC Television Center ist and are considered historic studio Tlot at Prospect and Talmadge structures. The Prospect lot is one Streets in east Hollywood is un- of the oldest “lots” in Los Angeles dergoing an expansion, restoration, still in operation. It first opened in and renovation program. After the 1915 as and was Disney Company purchased the later purchased along with the entire assets of ABC Television, reorga- company’s assets by Warner Broth- ers in 1925. Through the years many nization began of both companies THE VITAGRAPH STUDIOS—Prospect & resulting in the transfer of all tele- Talmadge 1924. This is the last photograph of historic films have been produced vision network activities from the the staff of the studio prior to its sale. on the property, including many ABC lot to Burbank. In May of independent of the mother compa- William S. Hart films, Keystone 2002 the ABC Television Center ny. The new Prospect Studios logo films,Don Juan (1926), Public En- name was dropped and “The is based on the original 1915 entry emy, Svengali, Captain Blood, No- Prospect Studio” was born. The gate to the Vitagraph and later ah’s Ark and The Sea Beast (1926) idea would be to make the studio Warner Brothers archway framing among many others. available to all ABC-Disney pro- the main gate to the lot. The property was purchased by duction units as well as film, televi- Demolition of -70s era build- ABC Television in 1948 and was sion, and commercial producers, ings has already begun, leaving the continued on page  President’s Message saw, returned with Linda Hope and ning for next year’s celebration of Jan Morrell (who is with the Bob Hollywood Heritage’s 20th an- Hollywood Always Hope Archives) and, after a splendid niversary at Wattles Mansion and Holds New Challenges tour by our own Robert Nudelman, Gardens (see separate item on this). by Kay Tornborg invited us to make a proposal for Save May 2003. When I became president of Hol- financial support to the Bob and Do- • We have been working on three lywood Heritage last December you lores Hope Charitable Foundation! (3!) separate book development may recall my waxing poetic about Whatever happens, it’s nice to be deals and have just signed a contract my excitement, generated by the asked! with Historical Publishing Network “new” Hollywood and the exciting • Our own Natalie Shivers led for a “coffee-table” hardcover which arrival of Hollywood-Highland in a team of consultants through the will be entitled Historic Hollywood: our midst. I assumed that after six year-long challenge of preparing A Centennial History. Its publica- months things would quiet down a Cultural Landscape Report on tion will commemorate the 1903 in- and move along at a more leisurely Wattles Mansion and Gardens, un- corporation of Hollywood as a city pace. NOT! Something stimulating/ der the Getty’s Preserve L.A. grant (a significant date in terms of the interesting / thought-provoking / program. As of June 15th the report burgeoning Hollywood secession aggravating/ outrageous / and fas- (WITH color photos!!) is finished movement). Our extensive archives, cinating happens with Hollywood and handed in to the Getty. Great lovingly assembled by Robert Heritage (and Hollywood!) almost job, Natalie!! Nudelman (and Marc Wanamaker every day. Here’s just a few from the • Parking rates went down to $2 and Robert Birchard and Randy last couple of months: for 4 hours at Hollywood-Highland Haberkamp) over the last few years • Parking rates went down to $2 (pssssttt! Even residents can shop will be put to excellent use. Nudel- for 4 hours at Hollywood-Highland there now!). man and Wanamaker will pen the (pssssttt! Even residents can shop • The letter- and photo-swap be- text. The book will be partly history there now!). tween Bud Lesser and William in text and pictures and partly indi- • We recently began a year-long Sagar, of Fairfax, California, written vidual and corporate biographies on collaboration with the National Park about in the last newsletter, has now sponsored pages. Stay tuned! Service on an archival photo exhi- morphed into a full-blown corre- • Parking rates went down to $2 bition, for June 2003, celebrating spondence with historian Eric Nider- for 4 hours at Hollywood-Highland 75 years of filming at Paramount ost of Haywood, California and also (pssssttt! Even residents can shop Ranch in Agoura, CA.. Also join- a member of the Niles/Essanay Silent there now!) ing the celebration is the Califor- Film Museum. Essanay, you may • The EVENINGS AT THE BARN nia Art Club, founded in 1909, remember, was the outfit that filmed season will begin again on October which will participate by having a the Broncho Billy westerns and some 16th with Delmar Watson’s evening “paint-out” i.e., its members will of the early Chaplin films. The Es- with child stars (now grown-ups). do plein-air paintings of specific sanay Film Manufacturing Company On Wednesday, November 13th, sites, in this case iconic movie loca- arrived in Niles, California in April film director Curtis Harrington tions. The photos and paintings will of 1912. Although the town had only will talk about his What’s The be exhibited together for a month, 1400 residents it already had a movie Matter With Helen? (1971), which starting next June, at four different show 4 nights a week, run by the stars and Agnes Hollywood locations which will, manager of the Edison Moving Pic- Moorehead and other films. Guests we think, get people out walking ture Company. TBA....While Curtis’ film is slightly around Hollywood, along the Hol- Although Essanay closed in 1916 later than our usual fare it is one of lywood Boulevard Historic Com- and was torn down in 1933, a few which he is particularly proud and mercial and Entertainment District, star/studio bungalows remain stand- he’ll have plenty to say on the earlier looking at our wonderful restored ing and one was recently acquired years of his long Hollywood career. theatres and other landmark build- by the Niles Essanay Save These Dates. Stay tuned.... ings and also enjoying our varied Museum, Inc., a non-profit corpora- • Attendance at the Museum restaurants. We will promote cul- tion, which will convert the historic has been growing and WE NEED tural tourism as well as welcome lo- structure, on Niles’ Second Street, VOLUNTEERS! The commitment cals as new visitors to our Museum into a silent film museum not unlike is one day a month, either Saturday where movies speak to all nationali- our very own Hollywood Heritage or Sunday, from 11 to 4. Call Kay ties. Museum @ the Lasky-DeMille Tornborg for details: (323)467-0287. • Barn Volunteer Carolyn Slavens Barn. I think the Sister Barn Pro- • Parking rates went down to $2 Navara recently persuaded a friend, gram has just begun! Stay tuned. for 4 hours at Hollywood-Highland who works in ’s office, to (More about Essanay in the next is- (pssssttt! Even residents can shop come to the Barn for Jan Sterling’s sue.) there now!). birthday and the screening of Ace In • Steve Sylvester, Managing Di- Other than the above, things are the Hole. Her friend liked what she rector of Wattles, is starting plan- quiet...

 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer 2002 Evenings at the Barn season closes with “Betty and Bud at the Barn” by Kay Tornborg ning and was kind enough to loan Jan was forthright and funny while ay 15th was the finalEvening us equipment to make things run discussing her career with Robert Mat the Barn before the start smoothly. Thanks, too, to Marc Wa- W. Nudelman, and quick to blow out of the Hollywood Bowl season and namaker for providing some of the her birthday candles in one try. there was a near-capacity house slides and information. Day Trip for Betty Lasky and Julian “Bud” Lesser talking about “What Our Recommendation Poppas Taught Us.” Betty’s linger- A tip for Hollywoodians looking ing illness prompted a quick re- for that slightly off-beat and differ- naming of the program to “Betty in ent experience: visit The Velaslava- Bed and Bud at the Barn,” and all say Panorama. Drawing on the proceeded without a hitch. Bud was illustrious history of the Great Pan- lively and charming, sharing his orama Paintings of the 18th and 19th family photos and recollections with centuries, the Velaslavasay Panora- a responsive audience. He was espe- ma is a contemporary presentation cially informative about the seminal Miles Kreuger, Betty Lasky, and Nick Beck of the 360-degree art form which role played by Jesse L. Lasky in the Regulars at these Evenings have became the sensation of Europe early years of Hollywood movie- started to comment on the evolution and America alike. The precursor of the ‘light refreshments.’ We have of today’s and yesterday’s wide and Barn Volunteer Carolyn Slavens Na- large scale motion picture screen vara to thank for this. Carolyn not extravaganzas (Cinerama, Cinema- only brings her delightful friends to Scope, VistaVision, Panavision and slice, arrange, serve and tidy up but IMAX) the 19th century panoramas she also sets out a lovely spread, us- drew millions of awe-struck visi- ing her personal linens and serving tors across this country and abroad. pieces. In addition, she selects the items available to eat and is coming up with increasingly tasty choices that fuel the post-presentation gab-

Bud Lesser and his sister Marj Fasman fest that is taking on a life of its own. Thanks, Carolyn and Friends!! making, building on his vaudeville Another “brainchild” from Caro- experience on the New York stage. lyn Navara: a picture cake for the This prompted some audience ques- April 4th birthday celebration at tions for Betty, who responded via the Barn for Jan Sterling. Following speaker-phone, strategically placed a screening of ’s dark The Panorama is housed in a small where her answers could be heard masterpiece, Ace In the Hole (1951), round building at 5553 Hollywood by all. Bud’s family photos of not Boulevard, one block west of the only his famous father, Sol Lesser, Avenue Metro Rail Station but also many of the illustrious stars and is open Fri., Sat. and Sun, 12- that made early Hollywood such a 5 PM. Suggested donation: $2 for special place, brought the evening adults, $1 for children, students and a personal touch that was truly spe- seniors. cial. Preservation PS: The lot on which Special thanks to Carroll Adams the Panorama sits is being eyed for of Technicolor, Inc. who supervised development so don’t postpone your the technical aspects of the eve- visit.

Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer2002  Books And Bohemia In Early Hollywood by Mary Sullivan

t’s 1938 on Hollywood Boulevard man’s Chinese Theatre. In Kevin Huxley talked: evaluations of books Ion “booksellers row”...... a book- Starr’s accounting in his book Mate- he was perusing, anecdotes regard- buyer’s dream that flourished from rial Dreams, Southern California ing the writers, so many of whom the early 1930s until the late 1970s. Through the 1920s he describes it he knew, all expressed in felicitous At its peak, as many as 20 book- this way: “The mystique which the phrasing which itself seemed to be stores were located in this area, Pickwick soon acquired came from rising from a printed page in clear selling new or used books to such the people who browsed through English-accented tones. One day a actors, writers, directors and com- its counters and shelves. F. Scott customer, mistaking Marlene Diet- posers as: , Charlie Fitzgerald, then living at the Garden rich for a clerk, asked her for advice. Chaplin, Orson Welles, W. C. Fields, of Allah, came by, sad and polite. Good humoredly, Dietrich played , Marlene Dietrich, Fitzgerald loved to browse in the out the part until she could pass , Andre Previn, upstairs floor where the old books the customer on to a member of the Burl Ives, Ray Bradbury, Red Skel- were, some of them written by Pickwick staff.” ton, Edward G. Robinson, Marion himself at a better time. Raymond Stanley Rose’s two Hollywood Davies, Clifford Odets, Marilyn Chandler likewise came and went stores–the first on Vine, near Hol- Monroe, Aldous Huxley, F. Scott stealthily, like Philip Marlowe on a lywood Boulevard, the second on Fitzgerald, , Frank case. William Faulkner was another Hollywood Boulevard itself next Sinatra, Mae West, Marlon Brando, quiet and solitary patron. Faulkner door to Musso & Frank’s–repre- Cecil B. DeMille, Thomas Wolfe, lived nearby on Highland Avenue sented the bookstore-as-hangout for Leo McCarey, William Saroyan and ate frequently at Musso & Hollywood’s urban bohemian intel- and Nathaniel West. In later years, Frank’s. Faulkner knew his books, ligentsia. A master humorist and celebrities such as Steve Martin, Epstein later remembered, and was anecdotalist ( and some say, former , Mel Torme, Gore a good customer, as was the young bootlegger), Rose maintained an Vidal, Johnny Depp, Eric Idle, Ber- English writer Aldous Huxley, ongoing party at his establishment nadette Peters, Nicholas Cage, Steve so weak in his sight that his thick which frequently spilled next door McQueen, and Dick Cavett might glasses required a third lens mount- to Musso’s lively bar, continuing have been seen browsing the isles. ed like a jeweler’s lens to one side of into the early hours. The next-door Opened in 1938, Louis Epstein’s the eyeglass frame. Sometimes Hux- establishment also served as Rose’s seminal Pickwick Bookshop (for- ley would tire of this contraption informal banker. The bookshop merly at the N/E corner of Hol- altogether and hold the book against and the bar/restaurant operated to- lywood Boulevard and McCadden) his face, peering at it from an angle, gether with great synergy, creating soon became a Hollywood landmark his head cocked, like an expect- a welcome sense-of-community and social institution alongside ant secretary bird. Unlike the silent for such screenwriters as James M. Musso & Frank’s Grill and Grau- Fitzgerald and the laconic Faulkner, Cain, Raymond Chandler, Erskine

Louis Epstein’s Pickwick Bookstore (2nd building from left) in the late 1930s at Hollywood Boulevard and McCadden  Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer 2002 Caldwell, John Fante, A.I. Bezzeri- more, , Faye Dunaway, Vidal, Ray Bradbury, Johnny Depp, des, Frank Fenton, Jo Pagano, Louis Bridget Fonda, Robert Wise, Leon- Eric Idle, Bernadette Peters, Nicho- Adamic, Budd Schulberg, William ard Nimoy, Jane Withers, and Rob- las Cage, Dick Cavett, and the late Saroyan, Nathaniel West and Wil- ert Vaughn, among many others, Steve McQueen, and Mel Torme, liam Faulkner–who literally became who can frequently be seen perusing among others. The store continues Rose’s boys-in-the-back-room, en- the books, movie posters and stills. to be family-owned and operated by joying his talk and whiskey. Rose Hollywood Book City (6627 Hol- the Siegel family, third generation also organized modern art exhibi- lywood Boulevard) was the last to booksellers from New York. The tions at his store which included open on Hollywood’s “bookseller’s store also sells an extensive collec- such artists as Alexander Calder, row”, in 1973, and was also the larg- tion of film and television scripts, Paul Klee, and Henry Moore–an est, at 10,000 square feet. It contains autographed photos, and other mem- effort which, during the late 1930’s an extensive collection of books orabilia. A new Hollywood Book in Southern California, was con- on film, television, music, design, City satellite store is now located sidered quite progressive Most un- theater, and the cultural arts in gen- in the new Hollywood & Highland fortunately, due mainly to his love eral, with more than 250,000-plus project. of drink, Rose eventually came to books in stock or on file. Hollywood Mary Sullivan is Director of Membership Development for Hollywood Heritage and grief, passing-away broke, and long Book City quickly became a favorite great-granddaughter of C.S. Wainwright, a before his time in the mid-1950’s, for film and television productions founding member of the Zamorano Club - a having closed the bookshop some needing historic reference books. book collecting club established in Los Ange- les in 1934. Special thanks to Anne and Aaron years before. Regulars who might be observed Epstein (son of Louis Epstein) for providing Also originally opened in 1938 browsing the aisles include: Steve valuable information and photo for this article. (on LaBrea and various locations, Martin, Whoopi Goldberg, Gore Thanks also to Robert Nudelman and Marc Wa- moving to Hollywood Boulevard namaker for providing additional information. in 1963 three blocks from its cur- The Silent Society of Hollywood Heritage rent location at 6644 Hollywood and Boulevard), Larry Edmunds and The National Parks Service present Milt Luboviski created Hollywood’s now best-known bookstore for film and television books, periodicals, movie stills, posters and general- Silents Under the Stars cultural ephemera. Edmunds actu- At the Paramount Ranch in Agoura, ally started out as partners with with Live Music by Michael Mortilla. Stanley Rose, and as both were Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 8:00 pm mutual-heavy drinking ‘partners’, frequent fights occurred between Hot Water (1924) them, resulting in their eventual Starring Harold Lloyd After resolving to remain a bachelor, Harold falls split. Sadly, Edmunds took his life in love and marries, little realizing that he hasn’t just married his wife, but in 1941, at the age of 35, having led her family as well. a short but intense life. After Ed- Sunday, August 18, 2002 at 7:30 PM munds’ death, Milt Luboviski, and later his brother Din, made the store Sherlock, Jr. (1926) into the Hollywood icon it is today. Starring Buster Keaton Buster stars as the cleanup man and projectionist Now, Larry Edmunds Bookstore at a local movie theater who has become an amateur detective through remains a favorite for locals, tour- a correspondence course. Saving his sweetheart is confounded by his ists, and the entertainment industry, attempts at imitating the heroics of his movie idols. and is still owned and operated to Both films will be preceded by asurprise short subject. this day by Din. It has continued to Begin your evening early! Bring a picnic dinner and relax before seeing the films. be a favorite source of film knowl- A flashlight is recommended due to limited lighting in our parking area. edge for such celebrities as the late Francois Truffaut, Henry Fonda, Sir Tickets: $6.00 General Public John Gielgud, Gene Kelly and Jack $3.00 Children under 12 Lemmon. And it continues to be the $5.00 Hollywood Heritage Members choice film/book-shopping spot for such celebrities as: Pierce Brosnan, For more information and directions to the Paramount Ranch Quentin Tarrentino, Drew Barry- call (805) 370-2301 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer2002  MEMBERSHIP UPDATE Robert Stack To Be Honored At We at Hollywood Heritage would like to thank the following new and Cinecon 38 renewing members who have made obert Stack will receive Among the films scheduled to generous contributions at the $100 Rthe Society for Cinephiles be screened in the Lloyd E. Rigler level and above (as of 6/2002). Cat- Career Achievement Award at Theatre at the restored Grauman’s egory titles are names of historic the 38th annual Cinecon clas- Egyptian on Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood movie studios. sic film festival and memorabilia are: Badlands of Dakota (1941), The Idle Rich (M-G-M, 1929), MAJESTIC ($2500+) show in Hollywood over Labor The Last Card (Metro, 1921), The Rod Taylor Day Weekend, August 29 through September 2, 2002. Cinecon 38 Cocktail Hour (Columbia, 1933), KEYSTONE ($1000+) promises to offer an outstanding Pennington’s Choice (Quality-Met- Sharon and Ray Courts ro, 1915), Half Shot at Sunrise (Ra- Muller Family Foundation five day program of unusual films, exciting celebrity guests and one of dio, 1930), Under Cover of Night BISON ($500+) (M-G-M, 1936), and The Silver Art Laboe Foundation the best movie memorabilia marts Horde (Goldwyn, 1920). KALEM ($250+) in the nation. Dan Barham Stack began his film career in the Eric Garcetti & Amy Wakeland 1939 Deanna Durbin picture First Stephanie & Randy Klopfleisch Love, and he went on to star in such Ted Otis screen classics as To Be or Not to TRIANGLE ($100+) Be (1942), Badlands of Dakota Timothy Brandt (1941), The Mortal Storm (1940), John S. Bryson Robert Burton Written on the Wind (1956), House Brutus Productions Inc. of Bamboo (1955), The High and William Cavitt the Mighty (1954), The Bullfighter Virginia Charon and the Lady (1951), and Airplane! Bill Condon & Jack Morrissey Dr. David B. Day, D.P.M. & (1980). Stack is also well known Marcia Day for his TV work in such series as Morgina & Bill Eagleton The Untouchables and Name of the Lisa & Charles Ellin Game. Todd Fisher Previously announced Cinecon Beverly Garland 38 guests include Beverly Roberts, The Cinecon Dealers Rooms will Allison Denman Holland star of God’s Country and the be expanded this year, and there is Francesca, Alba & James Karen a special “buy two tables and get Jean & William Kelly Woman (1937), and Ken Annakin, Patty & Joe Kowal director of Miranda (1948), Those one free” offer for dealers. Deal- Ian La Frenais Magnificent Men in Their Flying ers who have questions regard- Scott Martin Machines (1965), and co-director ing tables should contact Danny Myron Meisel Schwartz at (818) 707-2273 Susan & Richard Moll of The Longest Day (1962). Jon Padgett & Mark Howell Robert Stack will receive the This year’s host hotel will be Debbie Reynolds Society for Cinephiles Career the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel Don Roos Achievement Award at the 38th an- located next to the new Holly- Mary Sullivan & John Sanders wood and Highland entertainment Mary Sweeney – Syene Road, Inc. nual Cinecon classic film festival Vivian Taylor & Jeffrey Rodgers and memorabilia show in Holly- complex at 1755 North Highland Lon Weyland & Alan Paull wood over Labor Day Weekend, Avenue. It’s a closer walk to the Suzanne Whitten & Jim Leworthy August 29 through September 2, Egyptian and the brand new facil- We would also like to thank the 2002. Cinecon 38 promises to offer ity should be a real plus for the following corporations for matching an outstanding five day program Cinephiles. their employee’s contributions: of unusual films, exciting celebrity For further information, visit Merrill Lynch & Co. Foundation, guests and one of the best movie the Cinecon web site at: http:// Inc. memorabilia marts in the nation. www.cinecon.org or write: Universal Studios  Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer 2002 Cinecon 38, 3405 Glendale Boule- ing from them. Also, that the admit- able to comment on it and thereby vard, #251, Los Angeles, California tedly “negative visual impact” of the have an impact on it three years 90039. four front towers will be mitigated ago (instead of going to court). The For hotel reservations call the by “vegetation.” We asked for a bet- defendants argued our name was Renaissance Hollywood Hotel/ ter definition of what that meant (no removed from the mailing list be- Marriott reservation lines at 1-800- other information is in the EIR), cause we did not respond to issues HOTELS-1 or 1-323-856-1200. and are now told that the vegetation (not even requiring an EIR) such as Remember to ask for Cinecon rates. will be 32-feet tall, since that is the landscaping modifications and addi- Celebrity appearances and an- height of the existing towers (brick tional restrooms, nothing considered nounced film titles have been con- structures, not metal), which are historic, that were part of a 1994 firmed but are subject to change covered with ivy. The remaining mailing. due to unforeseen circumstances. 52 feet of silver towers will be left Despite there being over 1300 BOWL continued from page 1 alone, with no mitigation. This pro- names on both mailing lists (in- to justify the Environmental Im- posal makes no sense–either mitiga- cluding many simply labled as pact Report (EIR) when it contains tion is complete or it is not, there is “occupant”) and only 20 having findings that will cause a “severe no partial mitigation as the negative responded to the 1994 mailing, Hol- negative impact” that cannot be visual impact of the towers will re- lywood Heritage is the only one mitigated. main for 52 of the 84 feet. that they have admitted to remov- Hollywood Heritage showed that Perhaps the County could place ing from the EIR mailing by the there was no hard evidence provided signs on the towers at 32’ that say County. Yet they and the LAPA do to justify the SOC–as is required “Don’t look above here,” and one not consider this admitted action as by law–complaints given at a public above it that illuminates at night prejudicial and there were at least hearing or undocumented claims saying “Lighting does not reflect off three subsequent mailings, none of in the EIR are not “substantial evi- of silver, you only think it does.” which were mailed to Hollywood dence” as required under CEQA. Additionally, the County and the Heritage. Otherwise any developer or govern- LAPA did not adequately review It should also be noted that CEQA ment official could determine that Hollywood Heritage’s plan to mod- law states that all owners of prop- their unsubstantiated (therefore un- ify the shell in a manner to meet erty within 500 feet of a project are contestable) opinion could be given the goals of the LAPA as stated in to receive notification by mail of to go around any historic preserva- the EIR. Instead, the defendants the EIR, not just those chosen by tion ordinance to allow for a land- rehashed old arguments about a the project proponents (for obvi- mark’s demolition, simply because it plan submitted by the Los Ange- ous reasons). Hollywood Heritage would benefit the developer or poli- les Conservancy. That plan did not owns and operates the Hollywood tician. Findings need to be made and work, and does not resemble the one Heritage Museum building across “substantial evidence” provided to submitted by Hollywood Heritage. the street from the Hollywood Bowl. back them up. The County and the This plan was substantiated by one Thus another, admitted, violation of LAPA failed to do so or to defend of the premiere designers of outdoor the law and a potentially dangerous the SOC and subsequent demolition concerts and concert facilities in the legal precedent. plans. world, E.H.B.“Chip” Monck (Wood- The date for verbal arguments Other key arguments included a stock, The Rolling Stones, Monterey before the Court of Appeals will be lack of meaningful mitigation mea- Pop Festival, Newport Folk and Jazz announced soon and be posted on sures or a lack of enforceability for Festivals, Filmores East and West, our web site. such measures. A highlight of this Hollywood Bowl, George Harrison There is another issue here, one is that the new project would have Concert for Bangledesh, Bob Dylan, of funding. The funds budgeted for seven 84’ tall light and sound tow- John Lennon, David Bowie, Joni this new facility were based on con- ers, replacing the existing four 32’, Mitchell and over 2000 other con- struction estimates made in 1992, towers and three 54’ tall towers. certs). undoubtedly woefully inadequate The defendants now argue that Finally, the County and the LAPA by now. The County is once again these towers will be painted silver admit that they removed Hollywood experiencing a severe budgetary and thus invisible at night with Heritage from notification of the crisis. Where will the funds come lighting and sound equipment hang- EIR. This means that we were un- continued on page  Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer2002  Rod Taylor Signs Autographs for Heritage t the April 7-8 Hollywood the voice of Pongo, and to Alfred vaudeville,” as she continued to an- ACelebrity and Collectors’ Show Hitchcock’s The Birds, where he swer questions and sign away (she at Beverly Garland’s Holiday Inn leads a battle to save a family/town/ was raising money for her soon to in North Hollywood, MGM’s last civilization (if we only knew what open Debbie Reynolds Hollywood great contract actor, Rod Taylor, happened after they drive off at the Motion Picture Museum). Debbie signed photos and more to benefit end). His starring work continued in recently became a member of Hol- Hollywood Heritage A solid line The V.I.Ps, Fate Is the Hunter, John lywood Heritage, along with her two of fans surrounded Rod both days, Ford’s , The Glass talented offspring, Carrie and Todd coming from as far away as Europe. Bottom Boat, Hotel, The Train Rob- Fisher. Her museum will be working bers, and many more. He is prepar- in conjunction with the Hollywood ing for a new film later this year to Heritage Museum to share exhibit be filmed in . materials (more on her museum After the show dates, Rod came project in the next newsletter). to visit the Hollywood Heritage It was impressive to watch these Museum and Wattles Mansion to two great stars handle the public. see what Hollywood Heritage was Taught by the MGM studio system all about. His interest in movies and how to deal with the public 50 years Hollywood history made the visits ago, they were generous, responsive, a fun experience for him and his enthusiastic, and polite, answer- tour guides, Robert Nudelman and ing questions and gladly standing Stephen Sylvester. His generous gift up for hundreds (yes, hundreds) of of time and services to Hollywood photo opportunities. This is a skill An Australian native, Rod Taylor’s Heritage netted us over $10,000 that and quality that too few “stars” have career has been quite remarkable, weekend and will be used for new today (though at the January show, showing a great amount of versatil- exhibits at the museum and to cre- Carrie Fisher was every bit as good ity. He came to MGM in 1954, the ate a Hollywood Heritage brochure at this as her mom). same day that Clarke Gable left, for the museum and membership Hollywood Heritage would also and he watched “The King” uncer- solicitation (the last brochure was like to thank Marvin Paige for help- emoniously load his belongings into produced over 10 years ago). ing to arrange for the appearances his car and drive off. Starting his By the second day, and after hun- of his friend, Rod Taylor, Stephen American acting career, he quickly dreds of signatures, he was begin- Sylvester and Robert S. Birchard for built up a resume of quality films ning to feel the toll of writing and helping to run the sales table, Phil Giant (on loan to Warner Brothers), answering questions (no, he had not Docktor and Crush Creative for pre- Raintree County, Long John Silver, seen the new Time Machine movie paring the photos, the show’s pro- Separate Tables, and others. and yes, he had heard that his ver- ducers Sharon and Ray Courts, and In 1960 he played the lead in sion was better). He thoughtfully our host, actress/hotel owner (and ’s classic film version answering each time as if it was be- new Hollywood Heritage member), of H.G. Welles’ ing asked of him for the first time. Beverly Garland. (his co-star, was also Sitting at the next table was signing at the show). One of the true MGM’s last great contract classics of the science-fiction film actress, Debbie Reynolds, genre, Rod’s portrayal of George Rod’s costar in The Catered gave humanity to an adventure hero Affair (1956), effortlessly sign- rarely seen before or since (another ing each of her photos with a Australian, Errol Flynn, as well as perfect signature. Rod asked Tyrone Power and Sean Connery her how she kept doing it for have this talent/gift). two days straight. Debbie re- He transferred this talent to sponded, “Honey, you came Walt Disney’s 101 Dalmatians as from the movies, I came from Rod Taylor with Alfred Hitchcock on the set of The Birds.  Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer 2002 www.hollywoodheritage.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Kay Tornborg Vice President Fran Offenhauser

Treasurer Robert S. Birchard

WARNER BROS. EAST HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS 1926—The assets of the Vitagrph Company were Secretary purchased in 1925 by Warners and the lot name was changed. John Clifford VITAGRAPH Continued from page 1 into the new “look” and will incor- Director For Preservation Issues porate the new studio logo. As part Robert W. Nudelman renamed the ABC Television Cen- [email protected] of a 24-month program, the build- ter. Under ABC, the studio became Silent Society Director ing exteriors will be repaired and the home of a number of long-run- Randy Haberkamp repainted with a consistent color [email protected] ning television shows such as: You scheme that is being developed to Asked For It, The Lawrence Welk Kent Adamson enhance the history of the lot. A Tyler Cassity Show, The Dale Evans Show, Let’s plan is being developed that will in- Phil Dockter Make A Deal, American Bandstand, clude new names and signage for the Anne Epstein and General Hospital (10,000th epi- Steven Richard Osborn streets, stages and other buildings sode), Good Morning America, Port Marvin Paige on the lot. Signage will be designed Charles, Network News, and News- Bill Roschen and installed to carry the historic One. Some of the recent productions Arnold Schwartzman themes throughout the studio. Natalie Shivers using the lot include The Test (game This is a very exiting time for the Libby Simon show), The Shield (TV series), Just old Vitagraph Studio lot, which is Barbara Smith Married (Fox feature film), Push, Delmar Watson one of Hollywood’s oldest exist- Nevada (ABC pilot show), and Soap ing studio landmarks. With all the Talk (talk show). Vitagraph productions during the Managing Director In the coming months the studio Jualita/Wattles Mansion teens and 20s into the 1930s and 40s lot will be renovated, restored and Stephen Sylvester with the Warner Brothers East Hol- [email protected] upgraded for modern film and tele- lywood Studios to ABC and the be- vision production needs. Original The Wattles Mansion ginning of television in Hollywood, 1824 N. Curson Ave., Hollywood, CA 90046 soundstages will be renovated for the old lot is truly a Hollywood trea- Director of Membership Development rental along with other facilities sure that has been reborn. Mary Sullivan nearby. There will be an employee [email protected]

commons that will be created on Newsletter and Web Site Editor the site near the original front gate John Clifford BOWL Continued from page 7 [email protected] and bungalows, the original KABC from if this project were to be built? Web site donated and maintained by GTS INNOVA, bungalows will be reconfigured to Which health facility will be sac- www.gtsinnova.com their 1915 Vitagraph design and rificed by the County? At least our Printed by Nonstop Printing, incorporate an archway bearing the proposal can be done for substan- 6140 Hollywood Blvd., Prospect Studios name. They will tially less, probably within the 1992 Hollywood, CA 90028 provide executive or talent space larger project budget. The County Hollywood Heritage Newsletter is published and a new conference center. The quarterly by Hollywood Heritage, Inc., needs to get a grip on reality as well P.O. Box 2586, Hollywood, CA 90078, main gate on Prospect will be tied as the law. (323) 874-4005.

Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer2002  Robert Vaughn Visits Museum And Wattles By Stephen Sylvester n April 24th, actor (and Ph.D!) plete tour of the house interior and ORobert Vaughn spent the af- the grounds. After viewing “before” ternoon visiting two Hollywood photos of the site’s previous condi- Heritage projects. While best re- tion, he was very impressed with membered for his role as Napoleon our restoration and maintenance ef- Solo in the 60s television series forts to date. He then remarked on The Man From U.N.C.L.E., he has the similarities the Wattles mansion starred in such feature films as had to a home he had lived in with The Magnificent Seven, The Young his family in Connecticut. He knows Philadelphians (Oscar nomina- first hand the constant attention and tion), If It’s Tuesday This Must Be cost a historic home demands, which Belgium, and The Towering Inferno. explains why they eventually moved! In addition, he has appeared in over We hope Robert Vaughn will re- 100 television shows and directed turn for another visit in the future. episodes of the TV series Police He is currently rehearsing a play ti- the midwest as a young man and tled “Quintet” a story of four retired Woman and The Protectors. was overwhelmed by the sites and His first visit was to the Holly- opera singers. The play was a hit excitement. For several years he in England and will be making its wood Heritage Museum. He had resided at the Commodore apart- participated in a Hollywood Memo- American debut in Connecticut with ments (still standing) located at hope of landing on Broadway. rabilia Show in 1998 and had given 1830 Cherokee Avenue. This is the Hollywood Heritage a portion of his We wish him well. reason he chose the intersection of HHI at Wattles Mansion proceeds so now he would be able to Hollywood Boulevard and Cherokee see what that money had helped to Avenue as the location of his Walk 20th Anniversary fund. of Fame Star. Not having the time to Robert Nudelman gave Mr. Hard to believe, but next year view the entire collection, he vowed marks the 20th Anniversary of Hol- Vaughn an extensive tour of the mu- to return. The postcard collection lywood Heritage’s commitment to seum. After viewing the recreation could be of use to Mr. Vaughn as he Wattles Mansion and grounds. In of Cecil B. DeMille’s office, he rem- continues research for his upcoming May of 1983, Hollywood Heritage inisced about his experiences work- autobiography. Inc. signed a lease with the City of ing with the director. Mr. Vaughn’s The second stop was at the Wat- Los Angeles, Department of Recre- first appearance on screen was as an tles Mansion. This property has a ation and Parks. We agreed to fund, unbilled featured extra in DeMille’s personal connection to Mr. Vaughn. maintain and restore the historic property. 1956 version of The Ten Command- As a young actor in Hollywood, he ments as a spear-carrier and a wor- During Hollywood Heritage’s ten- had worked as a messenger for a ure, over $1.5 million has been spent shiper in the Golden Calf scene. local message service. After com- He was fascinated by the display of on the property and the site has been pleting his rounds and as the heat designated a Cultural Landmark. silent film set design. He remarked became too much for him, he would on the scale and grandeur of the sets This figure includes donated goods, drive to the Wattles Mansion to take services, and grants. both public and and the vast number of extras, and naps under the shade of trees that private. that it was all accomplished without lined the driveway. In the spring of 2003, we will be the aid of computers! He had always wondered about hosting a special event to celebrate Mr. Vaughn was especially en- the history of the house and who our many accomplishments during chanted by our extensive collection lived there. Now approximately fifty the past twenty years, and outline of vintage Hollywood postcards. years later, he was going to get to our plans for the next twenty years. Many of the landmarks repre- come inside. More information will be forthcom- sented warm memories for him. Steve Sylvester, the Managing ing in future issues of this newslet- He had moved to Hollywood from Director, gave Mr. Vaughn a com- ter. Stay tuned and plan to attend.

10 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer 2002 Francelia Billington Actress with Potential That Was Never Realized By Robert Birchard Francelia Billington was a fine as a director. Blind Husbands was book and a handful of stills from screen actress, although her career a commercial and critical hit, and her films with Lester Cuneo turned seemed to falter after her best film Francelia Billington seemed to be up in a La Crescenta, California, role in Erich von Stroheim’s Blind on the verge of becoming a major antique shop. A mother’s carefully Husbands (Universal, 1919). star. preserved memories of her once-fa- She was born in Dallas, Texas, mous daughter brought only twenty- on February 1, 1896. Her parents, five cents a piece, plus tax. the former Adelaide Bueter and Save These Dates James Billington, moved the family to Glendale, California, in 1905, and Upcoming Events Francelia was educated at Sacred Monday. Oct. 7, 2002 7:00 pm: Heart Convent–although apparently As a Pre-Season Dividend there not very well educated, because will be a Special Evening At the cowboy actor Ted French recalled Barn in celebration of the 75th an- that she could not read or write with niversary of the premiere of The any great skill. Jazz Singer, starring . In At age sixteen she managed to addition to an exhibition of archi- land some acting jobs at the Glen- val photographs, lobby cards and dale studio of the . other Jazz Singer memorabilia, the Under director she film will be screened in 16 mm became leading lady to Kalem’s big- with commentary prepared by The gest male star, Carlyle Blackwell, Jolson Society’s Dave Griem. (PS: and she gained a lot of audience In 1920 she appeared in two There’s a FREE program the eve- attention. After a brief tenure at Ka- Tom Mix Westerns for ning before, Oct. 6th, at 6:15 PM lem she landed with the Thanhouser Corporation, The Terror and Desert at the LA Convention Center, Rm. Company’s west coast unit as lead- Love. While working with Mix she 433A: The Radio Engineering Soci- ing lady to William Russell. The met and fell in love with Lester Cu- ety will present a recreation of the Thanhouser engagement led to an neo, an actor who had worked with Lux Radio Theatre’s presentation association with the affiliated Ma- Mix at Selig in 1912-13 and then of , with Richard jestic Film Company and later the given up films briefly to pursue an Halpern as Jolson. Pass it on!) combined Reliance-Majestic Com- abortive career in banking. Cuneo’s Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2002 pany. work as a heavy in the Mix pictures 7:00 pm: The Evenings At The In 1916, Miss Billington briefly was noticed and led to a career as Barn season will begin again joined Universal, but she was soon a minor star in a series of cheaply- with Delmar Watson’s evening engaged by the American Film made independent Westerns. Bill- with child stars (now grown-ups). Company of Santa Barbara, and ington joined her husband as leading Guests TBA. Delmar narrates. once again appeared with William lady, and the move effectively ru- Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2002 Russell in a popular series of ac- ined her career. Billington divorced 7:00 pm: A Special Tribute to tion films, including Snap Judgment Cuneo in 1925, and two days later Curtis Harrington Guests and (American-Mutual, 1917) and In Cuneo committed suicide. film TBA. The director of such Bad (American-Mutual, 1918). Francelia Billington worked films as Picnic and What’s The When American trimmed its intermittently in pictures until 1930 Matter With Helen, Harrington’s payroll after the collapse of its dis- when ill health forced her retire- films are slightly later than our tributor, the Mutual Film Corpora- ment. She died of tuberculosis at usual fare. However, he will share tion, Francelia Billington returned age thirty-eight on November 24, with us insights into Hollywood to Universal and landed a plum role 1934, in Glendale, California. In the of earlier years as well as his own in Erich von Stroheim’s debut film mid 1960’s one page of her scrap- early career. Hollywood Heritage Newsletter/Summer2002 11 www.hollywoodheritage.org P.O Box 2586 Hollywood, CA 90078 Mark Your Calendar Sunday, July 21, 2002: Silents Un- der the Stars. Featuring the Harold Lloyd film Hot Water. 8:00 pm at the Paramount Ranch in Agoura. Wednesday, July 24, 2002: Hol- lywood Heritage Board of Directors meeting. 7:00 pm at Wattles Mansion. Sunday, August 18, 2002: Silents Under the Stars. Featuring Buster Keaton in Sherlock Jr. 8:00 pm at the Paramount Ranch in Agoura. Wednesday, August 21, 2002: Hol- lywood Heritage Board of Directors meeting. 7:00 pm at Wattles Mansion. Wednesday, September 25, 2002: Hollywood Heritage Board of Direc- tors meeting. 7:00 pm at Wattles Man- sion.

PRESERVING OUR HOLLYWOOD HERITAGE FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS • Wattles Mansion and Gardens • Hollywood Heritage Museum/Lasky-DeMille Barn • • Silent Society: Motion Picture History and Preservation • Architectural Preservation, Advocacy, and Education •

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