Imagine stepping back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood. This is Whitley Heights Historic District. It’s more than just a neighborhood. It is a living testament to the dreams and ambitions of early Hollywood pioneers.
Whitley Heights owes its existence to Hobart J. Whitley. He was a land speculator known as the Father of Hollywood. Whitley envisioned a Mediterranean village. It would be nestled on the hillsides above Hollywood Boulevard.
In 1918, Whitley commissioned architect A.S. Barnes. He tasked him with designing Whitley Heights. Whitley sent Barnes to Italy. He wanted him to study the architecture and landscaping of historic hill towns. Barnes returned to design most of the houses in Whitley Heights between 1918 and 1928.
The development blossomed in the 1920s. It became the first Hollywood celebrity community. The beauty and seclusion of Whitley Heights attracted Hollywood’s elite. Residents included Rudolph Valentino and Marlene Dietrich. Judy Garland and Tyrone Power also called it home. Even Charlie Chaplin lived here at one time.
Streets were dedicated to public use in 1920 and 1921. The city improved them between 1924 and 1927. Most streets lacked sidewalks. Stairways connected different levels. This encouraged walking.
In 1982, Whitley Heights became a state historic district. Actor Brian Moore spearheaded the effort. He traced property titles. Moore gathered old photographs and articles. He researched Hobart J. Whitley’s papers. They were housed at UCLA. Later, the district became a national historic place. It was the first in Hollywood.
The construction of the Hollywood Freeway had a devastating impact. It bisected the neighborhood. The freeway destroyed 49 houses. Homes of Charlie Chaplin and Rudolph Valentino were among them.
Villa Vallombrosa stands as a testament to the area’s architectural heritage. Eleanor DeWitt built it in 1929. Nathaniel Coleman designed it. He modeled the house after a villa on the Grand Canal in Venice.
Today, Whitley Heights retains its historic charm. It’s a reminder of Hollywood’s glamorous past. It’s a place where you can still feel the magic of the movies. The winding streets and Mediterranean-style homes evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Take a stroll through Whitley Heights. Experience the allure of a bygone era.