The publication of Hollywood Heritage, a private, non-profit organization dedicated to preservation of the historic built environment in Hollywood and to education about the role of the early flim industry and its pioneers in shaping Hollywood’s Summer 2013 www.hollywoodheritage.org Volume 32, Number 2 history Exploring Hollywood’s Historic Neighborhoods he Lasky-DeMille Barn has been a itage.org) for more information on one of One of the most significant aspects of witness to Hollywood’s history and our most significant historic neighborhoods. the Highland-Camrose bungalows is the Tdevelopment for over 110 years. Highland-Camrose way they were sited. While most bungalow For 25 years it sat at the corner of Selma courts have tightly organized houses oriented Avenue and Vine Street in the heart of Bungalow Park around simple courtyard spaces, the High- Hollywood’s turn of the century residential Developed within the same time period land-Camrose Bungalows were scattered district. It spent the next 50 years on the as Whitley Heights at a more modest scale, around a very large site with several of the premises of Paramount Studios. The area the Highland-Camrose bungalows were de- bungalows oriented onto the adjacent streets. surrounding its current 30-year location is signed between 1916 and 1923 by the Taylor The oldest, a Dutch Colonial Revival built in rich with other historic sites. Surrounding Brothers and Lee Campbell as residences for 1906, was joined by 13 smaller residences. the Lasky-DeMille Barn lies a microcosm employees of movie studios. The Hollywood In the 1980s, the bungalows had fallen of Hollywood architecture and cultural Bowl, Whitley Heights, Highland-Camrose into disrepair and were beset by vandals and sites whose presence and contributions to Bungalow Village and Hollywood Heights neglect. In house after house, windows were the community are sometimes overlooked. are located on land that was once a por- boarded up, doors were broken and shrub- Nestled on upper Highland Avenue are sev- tion of the Rancho La Brea, a Mexican land bery was dying. Vandals had set fire to one eral properties whose stories have enriched grant. One of the new tracts was called the cottage. Inside another, an oak mantel and the lives of residents and visitors from the Hollywood Ocean View Tract and portions lead glass cupboard doors were missing. 1920s to the present. On the hills to the east of the tract became Whitley Heights and On April 23, 1985, in response to con- side is Whitley Heights, a National Register Outpost, developed primarily by Whitley, cerns from neighbors and Hollywood Her- District and a Historic Preservation Overlay Charles E. Toberman and others. The “vil- itage, the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Zone. To the west side is the Highland- lage” originally had 14 individual California Commission declared the property Historic Camrose Bungalow Park, part of the bungalow buildings built in the Craftsman Cultural Monument No. 291. On March 19, Hollywood Heights neighborhood. Half a Style. Their simple physical characteristics 1989, the bungalow village was added to the block to the south at 2035 North Highland reflected a lifestyle that was supposed to in- National Register of Historic Places. The Avenue is Hollywood Post No. 43 American voke harmony with nature, restfulness and County of Los Angeles took over the prop- Legion Memorial Clubhouse, which many of simplicity. The houses were meant to be du- erty from a developer shortly thereafter. you visited for our May program celebraing rable, comfortable and charming, composed On October 3, 1989, a group which in- the Hollywood Canteen. At 2000 North of natural materials that were economic and cluded representatives of Whitley Heights, Highland Avenue is Roman Gardens. And, required low maintenance. Jeffrey Chusid (representing Hollywood of course, let’s not forget the internationally Heritage) and Fran Offenhauser (co-found- recognized Hollywood Bowl. er of Hollywood Heritage, representing Whitley Heights Hollywood Heights) created a stabilization plan for the property. Just months later, This hillside neighborhood, platted in the The Highland-Camrose/Hollywood Bowl early 1900s by H. J. Whitley, was home to Master Plan Draft Environmental Impact “movie stars” before the development of Report outlined the reuse of the property Beverly Hills. Its distinctive Spanish archi- by the Hollywood Bowl for a passive park. tecture and expansive views led it to become The park’s features were planned to include one of Hollywood’s most elite enclaves. See This is one of the restored houses in The Highland-Camrose picnic spaces, walking paths and open space Bungalow Village, which is adjacent to the Hollywood the winter 2011 edition of the Hollywood Bowl and serves as a picnic area before Bowl events. to serve Hollywood Bowl attendees and the Heritage Newsletter (www.HollywoodHer- Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) continued on page 4 President’s Message Summertime in Hollywood by Bryan Cooper

can’t believe and a copy of the letter of agreement between that summer is Jacob Stern, then owner of the stable built by www.hollywoodheritage.org I already upon Robert Northam in 1901, and Cecil B. De- us! Just last week Mille as representative of the Jesse L. Lasky BOARD OF DIRECTORS Hollywood Heritage Feature Play Company. The agreement veri- Bryan Cooper, President wrapped up anoth- fies the oft-misquoted rental amount on the er successful season “barn” as $250.00 a month. In addition to the Richard Adkins, Vice President of Evening @ the letter of agreement is a copy of the original Mary Mallory, Secretary Barn with a sold-out lease agreement between the Lasky Company Tracy Terhune, Treasurer Celebration of Republic and the Burns & Revier Studios, the original Pictures. I would personally like to thank ev- lessees of the barn from Mr. Stern. History eryone at Hollywood Heritage who contrib- For Hire, the company, who has duplicated Bob Blue uted time and effort in making this a joyous documents for the National Parks Service’s tribute to that unsung studio. We’ll be return- Harper Ferry National Landmark site, and Amy Condit ing in the fall with another exciting roster of for two exhibitions at the Louisiana State Denise DeCarlo events, including the much-anticipated 100th Capitol, as well as products for the La Plaza Anniversary of the Lasky-DeMille Barn. de Cultura y Artes here in Los Angeles, made Dr. Meredith Drake Reitan Although we’ll be taking a break from pro- the duplicated documents. Margot Gerber grams at the Barn, there are still a lot of won- Currently, the Hollywood Heritage Mu- derful activities out there for you Hollywood seum has artifacts from the history of the John Girodo locals… many of them taking place outdoors Egyptian Theatre on display in their lobby Randy Haberkamp where folks can enjoy the balmy weather and we plan to add new materials to those that is the envy of everyone. Our neighbors cases in conjunction with our big anniversa- George Kiel at the Hollywood Bowl and the Ford Am- ry. As you can see I am VERY excited about Jonathan Nettler phitheater will of course be offering a star- that coming celebration, so you can be sure filled selection of concerts. But it doesn’t stop you’ll be getting a play by play from me in Chris Nichols there. Our own Randy Haberkamp has pro- future President’s messages. But let’s just Fran Offenhauser grammed two legendary films, Chicago (1928) say that DeMille’s rich film legacy will be and Peter Pan (1924) for this summer’s Silents honored in a grand way befitting the master Alan H. Simon Under the Stars at the beautiful Paramount showman himself! In the meantime, I urge Sue Slutzky Ranch in Agoura. See the article on page 7. you to get out there and enjoy the summer, You’ll want to mark your calendar now for dear friends… I’ll see you in the fall! Beth Werling these very special screenings! I’ve also gotten an inside scoop that the Echo Park Film Society will be on the road Committees & Chairs to better serve our own community and fa- Finance & Development - Amy Condit cilitate exchanges with communities beyond Museum - Richard Adkins the boundaries of Echo Park. Their Filmmo- Membership - Richard Adkins (acting chair) bile programs will focus on free film screen- Hollywood Heritage's ings in non-traditional venues (parking lots, Nominating - George Kiel vacant lots, parks, etc.) for the general public, Preservation Issues - Dr. Meredith Drake Reitan and free filmmaking workshops. Angele- Hollywood Blvd. nos are invited to discover and explore their Public Relations - Bryan Cooper changing urban landscape when the Filmmo- Walking Tour Publications - Alan H. Simon bile projects an array of classic films at (actu- Silent Society - Randy Haberkamp al or implied) cinematic locations across the Saturday mornings Mary Zickefoose city. For more information on EPFC pro- Director of Membership Development grams and services, please go to www.echo- Phone (323) 465-6716 parkfilmcenter.org and www.filmmobile.org. John Clifford My last recommendation would be to pay a to book your tour. Newsletter and Web Site Editor visit to The Autry Museum in Griffith Park. Hollywood Heritage Newsletter is published As part of their exhibit Jews in the Los Ange- quarterly by Hollywood Heritage, Inc., P.O. Box 2586, Hollywood, CA 90078 les Mosaic, the Hollywood Heritage Museum 323 874-4005. loaned a program from the opening of the Ten Commandments at Grauman’s Egyptian, 2 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 Paul R. Williams: Classic Hollywood Being Green: Style The Role of Historic Preservation aren E. Hudson, granddaughter of he greenest building is the one you well as quality of life value for communities. renowned African American ar- don’t demolish. Every year, approx- Key findings in the report note that: Kchitect Paul R. Williams, has pub- Timately one billion square feet of Building reuse almost always yields fewer lished a new book of this prolific architect’s buildings are demolished and replaced with environmental impacts than new construc- most spectacular houses (with photography new construction in the United States. The tion when comparing buildings of similar by Benny Chan). Williams, often referred to Brooking Institution projects that some 82 size and functionality. Reuse-based impact as “architect to the stars” was appointed to billion square feet of existing space will be reductions may seem small when consider- the first City Planning Commission of Los demolished and replaced between 2005 and ing a single building. However, the absolute Angeles in 1920, became the first African 2030 –roughly one-quarter of today’s existing carbon-related impact reductions can be sub- American member of the American Institute building stock. stantial when these results are scaled across of Architects (AIA) in 1923 and its first Fellow Why does this matter to those concerned the building stock of a city. in 1957. Williams moved among many worlds, with Hollywood Preservation? The Preser- Reuse of buildings with an average level of en- with such celebrity clients as Frank Sinatra, vation Green Lab of the National Trust for ergy performance consistently offers immediate Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Tyrone Power, Historic Preservation has recently released a climate-change impact reductions compared to and Barbara Stanwyck, as well as clients who report, The Greenest Building: Quantifying the En- more energy-efficient new construction. made Hollywood run behind the scenes, not vironmental Value of Building Reuse. Launched in Materials matter: The quality, quantity and to mention members of Los Angeles high so- March of 2009, the Seattle-Based Preserva- type of replacement materials used in a build- ciety. The book covers 22 homes in Beverly tion Green Lab advances research that ex- ing renovation, as opposed to repair of exist- Hills, Brentwood, Bel Air, Hancock Park, Los plores the value that older buildings bring to ing materials, can reduce, or even negate, the Feliz and the Hollywood Hills. their communities, and pioneers policy solu- benefits of reuse. Better tools are needed to The Hollywood tions that make it easier to reuse and green aid designers in selecting materials with the Hills property is older and historic buildings. A copy of the least environmental impact. the Victor Rosset- report can be viewed on the National Trust Hollywood Heritage’s Preservation Issues ti Residence, No. for Historic Preservation website (http:// Committee advocates the adoptive reuse of 915 on the City www.preservationnation.org and search for Hollywood’s building stock. This approach of Los Angeles’ The Greenest Building). helps to preserve the historic look and feel Historic-Cultural The report concludes that building reuse of Hollywood. Monument list. A almost always offers environmental savings Spanish Colonial over demolition and new construction. This Hollywood Economic Revival-style res- research provides the most comprehensive idence located at analysis to date of the potential environmen- Development Summit 2188 N. Ponet Drive, the house features a tal impact reductions associated with building hanks to the generosity of Crescent red clay tile roof, and a smooth stucco ex- reuse. Reusing existing buildings can offer Heights, the owner and develop- terior with an impressive arched entryway. an important means of avoiding unnecessary Ter of the Hollywood Palladium site, Designed in 1928, the two-and-a half story carbon outlays and help communities achieve Hollywood Heritage was an exhibitor at the home was built for $47,000. The L-shaped their carbon reduction goals in the near term. Hollywood Economic Development Summit residence has many features that define Wil- The study had three key objectives: 2013 sponsored by the Hollywood Chamber liams’ style - a hipped roof; multi-paned fixed 1) To compute and compare the life-cycle of Commerce. The conference was held on and casement windows; arches; and extensive environmental impacts of building undergo- June 18th at the Academy of Motion Picture use of ornamental iron work inside and out. ing rehabilitation to those generated by the Arts and Sciences’ Mary Pickford Center to fo- Window grills and balconies give the home demolition of existing buildings and their re- cus on what can be done to attract more retail an exotic look and feeling. Williams added placement with new construction. establishments and businesses associated with many of the luxurious extras he would be- 2) To determine which stage of a building’s the entertainment industry to Hollywood. come famous for, including decorative doors, life (i.e. materials production, construction, Hollywood Heritage members staffed a coffered and stenciled ceilings, a dramatic occupancy) contributes most significantly to table, telling visiting developers about the two-story entryway and a sweeping staircase, its environmental impacts, when those im- advantages of adaptive reuse of Hollywood’s a library, intercom system and a wooden el- pacts occur, and what drives those impacts buildings and how Hollywood Heritage can evator car connecting the garage to all levels 3) To assess the influence of building ty- assist them to that end, along with the eco- of the house. He later designed a two-car ga- pology, geography, energy performance, nomic incentives available for historic pres- rage, as well as another porch in 1937. electricity-grid mix, and life span on envi- ervation in Hollywood. Williams made a significant contribution ronmental impacts throughout a building’s Hollywood Heritage’s booth also exhibited to the architecture of Los Angeles; his work life cycle. Cecil B. DeMille memorabilia relating to the for the motion picture community is among Answers to these questions quantify the Lasky-DeMille Barn, illustrating the concept his best. Rizzoli International Publications, arguments made by preservationists that of adaptive reuse. Visitors were given informa- Inc. publishes the 239-page coffee table historic buildings have economic benefits as tion about our organization and museum and book, Paul R. Williams: Classic Hollywood Style. encouraged to join and attend our programs. Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 3 Neighborhoods continued from page 1 low tower capped by a copper-clad pyramidal distinctive atmosphere was a personal project. neighborhood surrounding the park. The roof. This roof is the most prominent archi- Roman Gardens is an example of an archi- park project retained and rehabilitated seven tectural feature of the building and, with the tectural type which creates an indoor-out- of the Highland-Camrose bungalows. Seven almost complete lack of windows, adds to its door living space. It was designed with an historic buildings and several non-histor- sense of massiveness and geometric simplic- appreciation for the Southern California ic buildings were demolished as part of the ity. Ornamental features include a series of climate, is an indigenous and integral part adopted plan. This was not the hoped-for inscriptions, decorative tile work, an elabo- of the Los Angeles landscape, and was con- outcome, and the neighborhoods and Holly- rate door surround, and a bas relief panel be- structed with values and objectives no longer wood Heritage fought hard to preserve more low the roof. The heraldic imagery of the tile common in multi-family housing. structures. Preservation was still a fairly new work is complemented by flags and a cannon. The façade of the building, which is set issue in Hollywood then; with today’s sensi- The building is still occupied by its original behind a well-planted forecourt, displays an tivity the outcome might have been more in tenant and still functions as a private social axial formation through the positioning of a keeping with current practice. gathering place. The building’s location at single wooden tower at the northwest corner. In 1996, the property opened as The 2035 North Highland Avenue, coupled with The tower itself is essentially non-function- Highland-Camrose Bungalow Park, named its extraordinary design, has made it a strong al, an example of one of the many playful in part as a tribute to Supervisor Ed Edel- visual landmark of the community for many architectural details. Italian, Spanish, and man’s many years of service to the city and years. For more information on Hollywood Moorish influences can be seen in the bas-re- county of Los Angeles. Consisting now of American Legion Post 43, go to www.hol- lief medallions, Roman busts, and animal seven tree-shaded California bungalows sur- lywoodpost43.org. Also see Mary Mallory’s heads, which outwardly project the exterior rounded by a park and picnic grounds, the blog: http://ladailymirror.com/2013/05/06/ walls. The villa is also rich in patterns and 1920s compound still evokes its classic Los mary-mallory-hollywood-heights-the-holly- textures through the use of hand-made tiles, Angeles residential building type. Levin & wood-american-legion-the-house-that-box- wood-beamed ceilings, reflecting pools, Associates Inc., in association with renowned ing-built/ brick pavements, French doors, and decora- landscape architect Emmet L. Wemple, in- Roman Gardens tive grillwork. Inside the main gate is a se- tegrated the renovated bungalows into a ries of three open courts that offset through walled, tree-shaded park with terraced, riv- Roman Gardens, also known as Villa Val- the property. The first of these, which is er-rock retaining walls, and a new steel and entino, is Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Mon- contrastingly vaulted and open-aired, func- wood pavilion on the footprint of the 1906 ument 397. It is south of the Barn at 2000 tions as both a vestibule and as a focus for house for outdoor events and performances. N. Highland Ave. Designated in 1988, it is surrounding living units. The middle court, The vine-covered wall on Highland Ave- described in Courtyard Housing in Los Angeles: lined with mature trees and discreetly placed nue, which encloses the park, directly across as “one of the most sumptuous courts in Los terraces, converges as a larger “piazza.” In from the Lasky-DeMille Barn, is built out Angeles.” It was built in 1926 by architects the last court, a star-shaped pool set in a of gray, green and black ceramic-faced con- Walter S. and F. Pierpont Davis. These two diminutive enclosure, creates a third type of crete block, with inserts of illuminated glass space, one that is both informal and intimate. blocks. The design of the wall was inspired The interiors of the apartments are uniquely by a musical score. different from one another. The features com- mon to all units—fireplaces and high ceilings- Hollywood Post 43 -are presented with variety. Layouts range American Legion Memorial from two-story maisonettes to ground floor Club House apartments with private, inner courtyards. Like many Hollywood properties, fantasy Down the block, at 2035 North Highland and myth surrounds Roman Gardens. Lo- Avenue, is the Hollywood Post 43 American cal lore associates film legend Rudolph Val- Legion Memorial Club House, Los Ange- entino with the building. Although he lived les Cultural Heritage Monument 462. Des- up the hill in Whitley Heights, and then in ignated in November 1989, it is one of the Beverly Hills, Valentino had already died at finest examples of the Egyptian Revival style the time of its construction. Courtyard Hous- in Los Angeles. The building was designed ing perpetuates the link: “Although original- in 1929 by the notable Los Angeles firm of ly the building was called Roman Gardens, Weston & Weston and represents perhaps for years it has been referred to as the Villa their best work. Valentino because of the insistent popular The Hollywood American Legion Me- legend that Rudolph Valentino used it as the morial Club House is a two story reinforced center of his amorous activities.” Roman Gardens, sometimes referred to as Villa Valentino, concrete structure, rectangular in plan and is on Highland Avenue, south of the Hollywood Heritage The Hollywood Bowl set back from the street behind a wide flight Museum. Photo courtesy of Steven L. Vaught of steps. The primary façade on Highland The Hollywood Bowl itself is now locat- Avenue is symmetrical and organized around architects designed a number of other reviv- ed in a County of Los Angeles enclave and a central entry with an elaborately ornament- al-style courts in Los Angeles which char- thus is not eligible to be a designated a Cul- ed horizontal band above the first story. The acterized Hollywood in the 1920s, but this tural Heritage Monument in the City of Los second story is set back to form the base of a eclectic yet cohesive group of buildings with Angeles. Because of alterations to the vari- 4 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 ous bandshells and other outbuildings over John Anson Ford Theater or west into the the years, its architectural integrity has been Hollywood Heights neighborhood. Can you MEMBERSHIP somewhat compromised. However, its sig- find the elevator? UPDATE nificance in American history, architecture, n grateful recognition of their generous engineering, and culture is still present in the Working Behind support, we sincerely thank the following landscape, a collection of buildings, struc- Irenewing members who have made con- tures, and objects that possess integrity of the Scenes tributions at the $100 level and above as of location, design, setting, workmanship, feel- eet our summer intern, Dan July 1, 2013. Category titles are names of his- ing and association that are associated with Herrick. Dan comes to us courte- toric Hollywood Studios. events that have made a significant contribu- Msy of the Heritage Conservation Kalem $250+ tion to the broad patterns of our history. Program in the USC School of Architecture The name Hollywood Bowl does not refer where he is studying for a Master’s Degree in Anthony Slide to the dome-shaped band shell but is actually Heritage Conservation. Randy Van Ausdall a reference to the natural bowl-shaped area He will be assisting the Hollywood Her- Triangle $100+ surrounded by the Hollywood Hills, orig- itage Preservation Issues Committee in a inally known as the Daisy Dell. Christine number of different areas: maintaining the Alice M. Allen Wetherill Stevenson and others originally watch list, including mapping of current Leo & Dorothy Braudy purchased the site as a location to perform development projects in Hollywood and Elizabeth & Richard Brill a religious production called the Pilgrimage preparing responses to public inquiries; Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence H. Bulk Play. When the community sought to expand preparation of a briefing book for newly Bert Cassan the use of the Dell for orchestral and cultural elected councilman Mitch O’Farrell and Johnathon Daugherty uses, Stevenson built the Pilgrimage theatre on the opposite hillside, now known as the Morris Everett John Anson Ford Amphitheatre. Commu- James Karen & Alba Francesca nity leaders, including Artie Mason Carter Fred Glienna and Charles Toberman, went on to create the Allison Denman Holland Hollywood Bowl. The first large-scale pro- Meredith Drake Reitan duction at the Bowl was the Easter Sunrise Barbara Smith Service of 1921. On July 11, 1922, the Hol- lywood Bowl officially opened as the sum- Mary Zickefoose mer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, where the orchestra performed under a sim- Welcome New Members! ple awning to an audience on wooden bench- es. In 1926, the landscape was re-graded to Alexis Altounian create better seating, but it had the negative Lennart Christofferson effect of reducing the natural acoustic advan- Christyann Evans tage of the location. updating materials on preservation for new Leonard Fenton The Hollywood Bowl had several band board members; drafting policy statements, Paul Herrick shells in its first few years, including two including ones on relocation and another on Kieran Kenney developed by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank the context of studio preservation and re- Lloyd Wright, before the arched dome, cre- development; assisting with the packaging Robert Knox ated by Allied Architects became a model for of the National Register of Historic Places Julie McDonald outdoor stages around the world. The 1929 nomination for the Lasky-DeMille Barn. Denise Morse shell included upgrades by Frank Gehry to As a motion picture enthusiast, Dan is Shannon Muchow solve its acoustical issues over the years. This thrilled to be working in Hollywood. He Erin Page fourth shell was replaced in 2003 with a new, appreciates its importance to Californians Mario Prado larger one, designed by the architectural firm as well as to people across the globe and Hodgetts and Fung. he is excited about helping Hollywood Amy Putnam The entrance to the Hollywood Bowl on Heritage in preserving its historic envi- Steve Reeser Highland Avenue is adorned with a sculpture ronment. Dan grew up in Calgary, Alberta, Ranjit Sandhu of the three muses by George Stanley, best Canada, where he earned a BA degree in Jo Spittles & Richard Shephard known for designing the Oscar statuette. Latin American History. He has also done Jack Smith The County of Los Angeles is currently volunteer work for the Calgary Heritage Sunset Gower & Bronson Studios exploring the listing of the Hollywood Bowl Initiative, an advocacy group similar to property in the National Register of Historic Hollywood Heritage. Jean Taves Places. This would give one of the nation’s Dan loves to ski and snowboard and af- Alan Van Gundy most famous cultural venues honorific status ter his summer internship, he will be focus- Woodrow Wise befitting its significance as a cultural Holly- ing his studies on the snowbound slopes Elaine Mae Woo wood landmark. in southern California and analyzing how Rob Word Want to explore further? Go north to the they are part of our cultural landscape. Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 5 Evenings @ The Barn Hollywood Heritage Ends Season he season’s last three Evening @ the questions at the conclusion of the slide show. Museum Store). Barn programs, before the Hollywood Following the formal program, Mr. Slide Guests lingered afterwards to drink in the TBowl events dominate the parking lot signed his book for the waiting crowd. nostalgic atmosphere, share in joyful cama- for the summer, were shown to full-house raderie with Legion veterans, and tour the crowds. Each featured food donated by board Hollywood Canteen @ historic structure. member Denise DeCarlo from her award-win- Hollywood American Legion The program was produced by Holly- ning Grub Restaurant in Hollywood. A raffle The night of Wednesday, May 8th will long wood Heritage president, Bryan Cooper, with an interesting array of items conducted be remembered as one of Hollywood Heri- with board secretary Mary Mallory assisting. at each event raised money for Hollywood tage’s most spectacular evenings, combining Thanks to the Hollywood American Legion Heritage’s growing acquisition fund, which poignant stories with entertaining presen- for opening their doors and sharing such a will enhance the museum’s collections. tations in the lovely Art Deco Hollywood wonderful event with us. Hollywood Unknowns American Legion Post 43 building on High- Salute to Republic Pictures land Ave. for An Evening @ the American Le- So many people related to Hollywood Un- gion – A Salute to the Hollywood Canteen. The 2012-2013 Evening @ the Barn series knowns because they were one, or they had Gracious host, the American Legion, wrapped up on June 12th at the Lasky-DeMi- friends or relatives who acted as extras in a warmly greeted Hollywood Heritage mem- lle Barn with a star-studded tribute to Repub- movie. bers and guests to their striking building, lic Pictures hosted by Hollywood Heritage permitting tours of the elegant facilities and President, Bryan Cooper. Nearly an hour’s their large archives at evening’s conclusion. worth of film clips made for a perfect cen- Patriotic music, costumes, and settings salut- terpiece to interviews by several legendary ed the 1940s and America’s call to war ser- performers who all starred in Republic films vice throughout the festive event. during its fabled 24-year history. Special guests Mary Carlisle and Marsha Hunt received Honorary Lt. Colonel cita- tions from the American Legion Post 43, before Hunt and Nancy Marlow gave touch- ing reminiscences of their days serving at the Hollywood Canteen. A toe-tapping, crowd-pleasing video clip reel followed, sa- Hollywood Heritage board member Sue Slutzky poses with luting both the Hollywood and Stage Door author Anthony Slide holding up one of the many books he Canteens. has written. photo by Alan H. Simon Authors Bruce Torrence and Lisa Mitch- The April 10th Evening @ the Barn saw ell presented a fascinating, educational slide Anthony Slide entertain and educate the au- show revealing the history and importance Hollywood Heritage President Bryan Cooper with actress dience about the lives and careers of Holly- of the Hollywood Canteen, concluding with Peggy Stewart celebrating Republic Studios. wood extras, starting from the early silent book signing by Torrence and Mitchell of photo by Alan H. Simon era. The presentation included lots of vin- their Hollywood Canteen, Where the Greatest Gen- Anne Jeffreys, Marjorie Lord, Ben Cooper, tage photos and a clip from the 1928 film, eration Danced with the Most Beautiful Girls in the Dick Jones, Peggy Stewart, Mary Carlisle, Ju- Noah’s Ark, showing cascades of water pum- World. (available in the Hollywood Heritage lietta “Tweeny” Canova and Fay McKenzie meling hundreds of extras during the flood made in-person appearances to help celebrate sequence. the studio where many of them got their start Other topics discussed were: the Holly- in show business. In addition, members of wood Studio Club (where young women with studio head Herbert J. Yates’ family shared aspirations of working in the movies lived, stories about their famous relative. Karla including Marilyn Monroe and Kim Novak), Buhlman, President of Gene Autry Enter- the creation of Central Casting, the Hays tainment, talked about Autry’s legacy with Code, and famous scandals and tragedies. the organization as well as on-going efforts Mr. Slide graciously donated his beautiful to preserve his films. Music was a keynote in book, Now Playing: Hand Painted Poster Art the evening’s program, highlighted by sever- From the 1910s Through the 1950s, as one of the al western songs courtesy of Will Ryan and raffle items. That prize made one lucky win- John Reynolds of the Cactus County Cow- ner very happy! boys. The program, produced by board member The foyer was loaded with memorabilia Sue Slutzky, was a fun, engaging evening with Authors Lisa Mitchell and Bruce Torrence display their book, from Republic films and in the middle of the the audience eagerly participating by asking Hollywood Canteen. photo by Alan H. Simon) room, Hollywood Heritage board member 6 Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 Denise DeCarlo of Grub Restaurant served up some delicious chili for a lot of hungry Grauman’s Chinese is Now customers. The program was co-produced by board the TCL Chinese Theatre president Bryan Cooper and board vice-pres- ident Richard Adkins, with many others con- ollywood Heritage, along with oth- come the Forecourt to the Stars. tributing to the work. er preservation and community or- Over the years, ownership and operation Although it was a rather long jam-packed Hganizations, was present earlier this of the theatre has passed through many evening, many folks noted that it really was year at a press conference where the Chinese hands. In the 1970s, it was renamed “Mann’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see so Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard was “re- Chinese Theatre” in deference to then-owner much talent in one room. A big thank you named” the TCL Chinese Theatre. Chinese Ted Mann and the Mann Theatres chain. It to everyone on the Hollywood Heritage Mu- electronics company TCL paid $5 million for was renamed Grauman’s after a joint venture seum Committee for making this wonderful the naming rights (for a period of 10 years) to of Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures’ evening possible! the current owners of the Chinese Theatre. parent company Viacom Inc. purchased The money will be used for upgrades and ownership of the movie palace in 2001. Pro- preservation of the historic site in accordance ducers Elie Samaha and Donald Kushner Movies to Watch with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. purchased the theatre from the studio joint The Office of Historic Resources for the City venture in 2011, with the intent to restore it This Summer of Los Angeles is responsible for determin- to its former glory as a social hub and preem- ing that all work on the Cultural Heritage inent site of movie premieres. his Monument meets the Standards. In 1968 it was designated Los Angeles sum- Cultural Heritage Mon- Tmer’s ument Number 55. The Silents Under the theatre is listed on the Stars series is National Register of His- in its 26th year toric Places as a contrib- and screens at utor of the Hollywood the Paramount Boulevard Commer- Ranch in Agoura cial and Entertainment Hills. Come ear- District. In addition to ly and bring a picnic dinner! Tickets available at movie premieres, it has the Ranch when you arrive: Hollywood Heritage also hosted Oscar cer- members, $5.00; general public, $6.00; children emonies. Its tradition under 12, $3.00. of having movie stars Live music accompanist Michael Mortilla A vintage postcard of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard. immortalize their hand- From the collection of Joan and Alan Simon) will perform in this series. There will be sur- prints and footprints in prise short subject shown preceding each fea- The theatre’s giant red Chinese pagoda ex- the concrete in front of the theatre has made ture. See details at www.HollywoodHeritage. terior and 30-foot tall Chinese Dragon has it an immense tourist attraction, a “must-see” org/Silents/suts2013.html become a symbol of the movie business. The for visitors from all over the world. Sunday, July 21st – 8pm – Chicago (1928) Chinese Theatre, known as Grauman’s Chi- After conversations with the theatre’s cur- Starring Phyllis Haver, Julia Faye, May nese Theatre, opened in 1927 with the pre- rent owners, Hollywood Heritage submitted Robinson and Eugene Pallette. Directed by miere of Cecil B. DeMille’s The King of Kings. a letter to the City of Los Angeles Cultural Frank Urson. Hollywood showman Sid Grauman, along Heritage Commission supporting modifica- Sunday, August 18th – 7:30pm – Peter with partners that included silent screen tions to the theatre’s interior. Because the Pan (1924). Starring Betty Bronson, Esther stars Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks, owner’s plans to accommodate the IMAX Ralston, Mary Brian, and Ernest Torrence. financed the $2 million construction of the film format will alter features that were al- Directed by Herbert Brenon. theatre designed by architect Raymond Ken- tered during previous renovations, it is nedy. Grauman also built and owned the expected that any changes will meet the Sec- nearby Egyptian Theatre. retary of the Interior’s Standards for Reha- According to the Chinese Theatre website, bilitation. In the letter, Hollywood Heritage the theatre’s cultural links to China date back also recommended that a historic monitor be to its origins. During construction, permis- tasked with reviewing and approving ongo- sion had to be obtained from the U.S. gov- ing plans, building department submittals, ernment to import temple bells, pagodas, and construction. stone Heaven Dogs and other artifacts from Overall, we support the owner’s attempt to China. Most of these pieces still decorate the maintain the theatre as a viable presentation ornate interior of the theatre lobby. Chinese house for motion pictures and look forward poet and film director Moon Quon super- to working with them in the future as they vised a team of Chinese artisans that created continue their rehabilitation. many pieces of statuary in what would be- Hollywood Heritage Newsletter | Summer 2013 7 www.hollywoodheritage.org P.O Box 2586 Hollywood, CA 90078 Mark Your Calendar July: Screening Chicago (1928); Silents Under the Stars: Paramount Ranch, July 21 – 8pm August: Screening Peter Pan (1924); Silents Under the Stars: Paramount Ranch, August 18 – 7:30pm October: A Tribute to Julia Adams; Evening @ the Barn: October 9 – 7:30pm Holiday Party, Sons of the Desert Tent screenings at the Lasky-DeMille Barn. Oct. 10, 7:15pm November: Beverly Hills Confidential; Evening @ the Barn: November 13 – 7:30pm December: Lasky-DeMille Barn Centennial; Evening @ the Barn: December 11 – 7:30pm Holiday Party, Sons of the Desert Tent screenings at the Lasky-DeMille Barn. Dec. 12, 7:15pm Hollywood Heritage Membership Meeting and Holiday Party – December 15 – at the Lasky-DeMille Barn.

PRESERVING OUR HOLLYWOOD HERITAGE FOR MORE THAN 22 YEARS • Wattles Mansion and Gardens • Hollywood Heritage Museum/Lasky-DeMille Barn • • Silent Society: Motion Picture History and Preservation • Architectural Preservation, Advocacy, and Education •

Membership Application

YES! I would like to become a member of Hollywood Heritage, Inc. $2,500 Majestic $1,000 Keystone $500 Bison $250 Kalem Name: ______$100 Triangle** $50 Household $35 Individual $20 Senior (65+)/Student (Full Time) Address: ______**Join at the $100 Triangle level or above, and receive a 24”x36” collectable reproduction poster, A Map of Hollywood from the Best Surveys of the Time City:______State:____ Zip: ______(c. 1928). Membership Benefits Include: E-mail Address: ______• Free admission to the Hollywood Heritage Museum for two I wish to pay by: adults and two children.  Check Please make checks payable to • Ten percent discount at the Museum Store. Hollywood Heritage, Inc. • Advance notification of special member programs. • Discounts on Silent Society film programs at the Hollywood Charge my:  Visa  MasterCard Heritage Museum, UCLA, and the Paramount Ranch. Card Number:______Exp. Date:______• Quarterly Hollywood Heritage Newsletter. Signature:______Clip and mail to: Hollywood Heritage, Inc., P.O. Box 2586, Hollywood, CA 90078