Hollywood Sign - 100 years (1923)

The #Hollywood #Sign

A Century of Fame & Fortune

Brand & Identity ⏺️

The iconic Hollywood sign, perched atop Mount Lee, Beachwood Canyon, Santa Monica in Los Angeles, has witnessed a century of dreams, fame, and fortune in the film industry. Its history is as captivating as the stories it has come to symbolize.

1923: A Temporary Advertisement

In 1923, Harry Chandler, publisher of the Los Angeles Times, and land developer H.J. Whitley envisioned a grand promotional campaign for their new luxury housing development called "Hollywoodland." They commissioned the construction of a massive sign, spelling out the name of the neighborhood in 50-foot-tall white lettering.

1930s: The Rise of Hollywood

With the booming Film Industry, the Hollywood sign's association with glamour and fame grew rapidly. The sign soon became synonymous with the golden age of Hollywood, appearing in countless movies and television shows. However, the original wooden structure, designed to last only 18 months, began to deteriorate.

1949: Transformation & Preservation

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce stepped in and purchased the sign in 1949. Recognizing its cultural significance, they removed the "LAND" portion, leaving the iconic "HOLLYWOOD" that stands today. This move saved the sign from demolition and solidified its status as a permanent Los Angeles landmark.

1978: A Steel Reinvention

After years of weathering the elements, the sign was in dire need of repair. In 1978, a fundraising campaign led by legendary Rock Star #AliceCooper raised enough money to rebuild the sign in steel. The new structure ensured the sign's longevity for generations to come.

Following the 1978 public campaign to restore the sign, the following nine donors gave $27,778 each (which totaled $250,002):

⏺️ H: Terrence Donnelly (publisher of the Hollywood Independent Newspaper)

⏺️ O: Alice Cooper (singer), who donated in memory of comedian Groucho Marx

⏺️ L: Les Kelley (founder of Kelley Blue Book)

⏺️ L: Gene Autry (actor)

⏺️ Y: Hugh Hefner (founder of Playboy)

⏺️ W: Andy Williams (singer)

⏺️ O: Giovanni Mazza (Italian movie producer, co-founder of Panaria Film)

⏺️ O: Warner Bros. Records

⏺️ D: Dennis Lidtke (businessman, graphics company Gribbitt), donated in the name of Matthew Williams

2000s: A Cultural Touchstone

The Hollywood sign continued to be a global symbol of the entertainment industry and American culture throughout the 2000s. It has appeared in countless films, albums, and advertisements, solidifying its place in popular culture.

2023: A Century of Legacy

In 2023, the Hollywood sign celebrated its 100th anniversary. A testament to the enduring power of dreams and the magic of Hollywood, the sign continues to inspire and attract millions of visitors each year. It stands as a reminder of the city's rich history and its vibrant future in the world of entertainment.

The story of the Hollywood sign is a testament to the transformative power of imagination and ambition. From its humble beginnings as a temporary advertisement to its iconic status as a global symbol, the sign has captured the essence of Hollywood's magic for a century. As the city and the industry continue to evolve, the Hollywood sign will undoubtedly remain a constant source of inspiration and a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and dreamers around the world.

(c) Rohit Singh Negi / Dr. Reshmi Nair

#RSNPPL ⏺️

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