Greater LA
Memorial Day special: Origins of Wilshire and Hollywood Boulevards
On this holiday, Greater LA replays two episodes of our “What’s In a Street Name?” series.
By Steve Chiotakis • • 24m ListenOn this holiday, Greater LA replays two episodes of our “What’s In a Street Name?” series. Gaylord Wilshire — a land speculator, billboard tycoon, failed politician and inventor — built Wilshire Boulevard, which became LA’s primary escape route from the horse-drawn era. But as the city got bigger, Gaylord Wilshire got smaller.
A stroll through Hollywood history reveals over 100 years of boulevard branding. But can the “Main Street of the movies” maintain its historic integrity — and keep its small businesses alive — while absorbing billions of private investment dollars?
In this episode
2 storiesWhat’s in a street name? How ‘millionaire socialist’ built Wilshire Blvd
There are older streets, longer streets and streets more beautiful, but no single street tells a story that better defines the city we live in than Wilshire Boulevard .
Read the story12 minWhat’s in a street name? Hollywood Blvd is torn between its historic past and economic future
Hollywood Boulevard is one of the most famous streets in the world — a universal symbol of glamour and fame. It attracts 10 million tourists a year. It’s the destination for dreamers hoping to “make it” in show business.
Read the story12 min
