Hollywoodland Homeowners Celebrate History

Saturday was a day to celebrate the rich history of Hollywoodland's roots. The Hollywoodland Homeowners Association held “Hollywoodland History Day” in Beachwood Village as a way to showcase their neighborhood and celebrate its roots.

“We really treasure our history,” said Sarajane Schwartz, president of the Hollywoodland Homeowners Association. “Two books came out in May about Hollywoodland, so it really is a very special neighborhood. People think we hate tourists, and it’s not so.”

People who live in the area say they can understand why it is a popular destination. Neighbors say what they have in their neighborhood is hard to find anywhere else.

 “You’re here and in five minutes you can be in the heart of an urban area,” said Brian Lane, an architect who has lived in the area for 18 years. “It’s a unique combination of things in a fairly urban setting, so we kind of have the best of both worlds.”

Lynn Shepodd, a Hollywoodland Homeowners Association board member and third-generation realtor, first moved with her family to the area more than 50 years ago. She wouldn’t trade living there.

“Visually, it’s charming and provides an escape from the big city, but you can get places very quickly,” she said. “It’s a really lovely place to be. The sounds of living in the hills are stress relieving. It’s a neighborhood of people who adore this part of town, and they’re devoted to it.”

The association plans to hold other community events later in the year.  Jeff Meyer, who owns Hollywoodland Antiques and Fine Time Pieces, said nothing can beat the love and appreciation his neighbors have for their community.

“It’s a small town feel in the heart of the big city,” Meyer said. “It’s magical. That’s why I’m here.”

People gathered in the Village Square to view historic photos of the neighborhood while offered a chance to win an earthquake kit or take a Hollywoodland history quiz. T-shirts and license plate holders, were also on sale.

As part of the Hollywoodland History Day, hiking tours were offered. LA Active Adventures led the walking tours and donated proceeds from the tours to the Hollywoodland Homeowners Association.