Whitley's Hollywood

H. J. Whitley was given the title "Father of Hollywood" because on October 26, 1911 he convinced the first movie studio to make Hollywood its home. Nestor Studio, was established by David Horsley. The Nestor Company leased Blondeu Tavern for thirty dollars a month, and built the first Hollywood film stage ever on the northwest corner of Sunset and Gower. Eventually it would evolve into Universal Studios. Not only did H. J. Whitley bring the movie studios to Hollywood, he also left his personal footprint throughout the entire town.

Dreamland:New Beginnings

This is the story of Hobart Johnstone Whitley, the visionary known as the Father of Hollywood, whose ambition and perseverance helped shape modern America and the dreamland of Hollywood itself. Alongside Gigi, whose voice and ideals illuminate his path, Whitley’s journey becomes one of love, foresight, and the cost of creation. Their tale explores the power of belief and the enduring struggle to turn dreams into a lasting legacy. Find Chapter 1 under Hollywood Blog.

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The Life of Hollywood by Grace D
Grace D wrote a book about Hollywood. whose 3rd birthday is October 7, 2024. She share the birthday of H J Whitley, The Father of Hollywood, who would be 177 years old this year. Lets do our part to celebrate by buying a book as proceeds help animal rescue. Just click on the book cover.Proceeds go to Dog Rescue.

Light In The Darkness

If you’ve spent any time in Hollywood driving along the 101 Hollywood Freeway, then you’ve likely noticed the giant, illuminated cross on top of a hill just to the north of Whitley Heights. Every time we drove by this Cross, most of us wondered why is it there.

Click on book cover to purchase the book from Amazon

We have enjoyed receiving pictures of people visiting the Whitley Building in Disney's California Adventure. If you would like to have your picture added please contact the author.