Chapter 2 - Hollywood Studios – Hollywood Blvd – Part 1
update Jun 2023
During the 1989 opening ceremonies, Michael told the guests, “We welcome you to a Hollywood that never was — and always will be”.
The Disney-MGM Studios intended to take guests back to a time when Hollywood Film making led the industry, and there was magic in the movies. Back then guests were drawn to the park for look behind the scenes at the how movies were made, and to be able to see the entertainment production in action.
Disney-MGM Studios was designed to celebrate the magic of a place where everyday dreams really could come true - Hollywood. At this tribute to the wonders of movie making, it's only fitting that walking into Disney-MGM Studios, guests could find themselves on a set that transports them back to the golden age of film in Hollywood, California.
Michael Eisner, who had a major part in the park's conception demanded that the first land that guests encounter function on the same principle as Main Street, U.S.A.,. A Street lined with shops, food and a major focal point at the end (Grauman’s Chinese Theater). But it had to be in a style more befitting Hollywood.
The Disney-MGM Studios intended to take guests back to a time when Hollywood Film making led the industry, and there was magic in the movies. Back then guests were drawn to the park for look behind the scenes at the how movies were made, and to be able to see the entertainment production in action.
Disney-MGM Studios was designed to celebrate the magic of a place where everyday dreams really could come true - Hollywood. At this tribute to the wonders of movie making, it's only fitting that walking into Disney-MGM Studios, guests could find themselves on a set that transports them back to the golden age of film in Hollywood, California.
Michael Eisner, who had a major part in the park's conception demanded that the first land that guests encounter function on the same principle as Main Street, U.S.A.,. A Street lined with shops, food and a major focal point at the end (Grauman’s Chinese Theater). But it had to be in a style more befitting Hollywood.
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Looking for the up to date map:
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As we travel down Hollywood Boulevard, we can be entertained with 1940's Hollywood background Music |
Crossroads of the World
At its base is a small Kiosk which sells souvenirs and pins. Guests can also get Hollywood Studio maps and Times Guides.
Crossroads of the World is modeled after America’s first outdoor shopping mall, the original Crossroads of the World in Los Angeles.The Streamline Moderne architect Robert V. Derrah built the Mall in 1936 as the entrance to an eclectic shopping area. The tower is part of an art deco structure that looks like a ship, with port holes and ship’s railings, suggesting an ocean liner passing through the cultures of the world.
The Screen Actors Guild, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jackson Browne and Alfred Hitchcock used to rent offices there. Today it is undergoing revitalization and will be used as a business office complex. 
Sunset Boulevard and Las Palmas in Los Angeles, 1937
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As guests approach Hollywood Studios, one of first thing they will see is a Mickey Mouse icon on top of a World globe.
Most guest think that a view Mickey Mouse on top of the World is a charming touch. As guests pass through the turnstiles of Disney-MGM Studios, one of the first replicate of a Hollywood landmarks guests come upon is Crossroads of the World, the eye-catching Mickey topped tower. 
Sunset Boulevard and Las Palmas in Los Angeles, 2017
The Hollywood Studios version is almost an exact replica of the Tower. Both Mickey and the globe were created by former Disney master sculptor Perry Russ.
Note: Disney sculptor Perry Russ also did the design on the studio archways leading into Animation Courtyard. Looking down Hollywood Boulevard from the Crossroads of the World gives guests a view that has changed several times over the years. 
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click on photo to enlarge.
References:
- http://www.wdwforgrownups.com/articles/crossroads-world-disneys-hollywood-studios
- https://www.wdwinfo.com/disney-world/hollywood-studios/shopping.htm#holly
- https://magicguides.com/hollywood-studios-secrets/
- https://www.burnsland.com/looking-back-disney-mgm-studios-in-1990/
- https://atomicredhead.com/2019/04/18/the-violent-history-of-las-iconic-crossroads-of-the-world/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crossroads_of_the_World
- https://www.laconservancy.org/locations/crossroads-world
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Movieland Memorabilia
Quick mention of Movieland Memorabilia shop, again Movieland Memorabilia at Hollywood Studios is split. Half of this shop is located just left before the turnstiles (we discussed it in the last Chapter 40) and the other half is located inside the Park left of the turnstiles. The first shop guests will encounter as entering Hollywood Studios and the last before leaving. Both halves have the basically the same items. Even Movieland Memorabilia gets decked out for Christmas. Source: 
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Guest Relations
Services Provided by Disney Guest Relations are setup to assist guests with a wealth of handy services to make their visit hassle-free as it can.
Guide Maps
Each theme park Guest Relations location has Guide Maps for their own park in 6 different languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German and Japanese.
Each location also provides detailed guides for Guests with Disabilities.
Important Theme Park Information
Find the information you’re looking for, including:
Accessibility information
Locations & Operating Hours
Guest Relations is available at all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks
At Hollywood Studios there is a Guest Relations Window to the left, just before entering the turnstiles.
And also to the left just as you pass through the turnstiles.
Hours of operation vary based on location. Each Guest Relations location is open during the normal operating hours for the park.
Services Provided by Disney Guest Relations are setup to assist guests with a wealth of handy services to make their visit hassle-free as it can.
Guide Maps
Each theme park Guest Relations location has Guide Maps for their own park in 6 different languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German and Japanese.
Each location also provides detailed guides for Guests with Disabilities.
Important Theme Park Information
Find the information you’re looking for, including:
Accessibility information
- Assistance for International Guests, including currency exchange
- Dining reservations
- Lost and Found
- Separated Guest assistance
- Services for Guests with Disabilities
- Ticket information and upgrades
- And more!
Locations & Operating Hours
Guest Relations is available at all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks
At Hollywood Studios there is a Guest Relations Window to the left, just before entering the turnstiles.
And also to the left just as you pass through the turnstiles.
Hours of operation vary based on location. Each Guest Relations location is open during the normal operating hours for the park.
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Baby Care Centers - Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is located in the Guest Services building located to the left as you enter the park. Bypass the Guest Services line and walk straight in. When you are in Guest Services, you will see a door to the left labeled Baby Care Center.
To the left of inside the Baby Care Center are two rooms that provide privacy as you can draw a curtain closed. In each of the two rooms is a rocking chair and a small bench. The changing center has a few tables and a small bathroom. There are no baby sundry items available in this location, but a small kitchenette if you need to rinse something or warm something up in the microwave.
Hollywood Studios is located in the Guest Services building located to the left as you enter the park. Bypass the Guest Services line and walk straight in. When you are in Guest Services, you will see a door to the left labeled Baby Care Center.
To the left of inside the Baby Care Center are two rooms that provide privacy as you can draw a curtain closed. In each of the two rooms is a rocking chair and a small bench. The changing center has a few tables and a small bathroom. There are no baby sundry items available in this location, but a small kitchenette if you need to rinse something or warm something up in the microwave.
Sid Cahuenga's One- of-a-Kind
Just pass Guests Relations was Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios. This store which opened with Park once sold one of a kind movie memorabilia. In 2013, it closed to become a MyMagic+ service center and today the building serves as a PhotoPass hub.
Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios shop served as an indicator for the rest of the park. Sid Cahuenga’s was the home of Hollywood Film making Treasures which included: Disney posters, autographed photos of actors and actresses, movie costumes, books and more. |
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click on photo to enlarge.
The store opened to guests on May, 1989, with the rest of the Disney-MGM Studios. Located at the front of the park, Sid’s was one of the first locales that guests could visit in the “Hollywood that never was and always will be.”
As almost everything in Walt Disney World, Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios shop had an intricate backstory right out of the Hollywood Golden Age.
The backstory starts with Sid Cahuenga and his wife moving from the Midwest to Hollywood in the 1920s. The movie industry was booming around them, their Hollywood property became valuable, and real estate agents tried to purchase the couple’s house. Being big movie fans, the Cahuenga refused to sell. Instead, they benefited from the tourists who passed by their home, Sid had decided to make some extra money by showcasing the movie memorabilia he had collected over the years.
As almost everything in Walt Disney World, Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios shop had an intricate backstory right out of the Hollywood Golden Age.
The backstory starts with Sid Cahuenga and his wife moving from the Midwest to Hollywood in the 1920s. The movie industry was booming around them, their Hollywood property became valuable, and real estate agents tried to purchase the couple’s house. Being big movie fans, the Cahuenga refused to sell. Instead, they benefited from the tourists who passed by their home, Sid had decided to make some extra money by showcasing the movie memorabilia he had collected over the years.
Sid Rosie, Citizen of Hollywood Studios, doing her daily cleaning
Eventually he decided to sell some of his collectibles. Sid initially put the items for sale on his front porch and yard, then decided to remodel some of his house and create a store. With business booming, he realized that he would need to restock his supply. To do so, he bought a large flatbed truck (that could be seen outside his house), which he used to travel around town buying, or finding, used items from the movie studios.
It’s a great backstory, but its fiction. Sid Cahuenga and his store never existed in the real Hollywood. Sid and his store were invented by the Imagineers. There are several version, but this is the most accepted one.
The Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios shop structure is based on the California Bungalow residential style, as practiced by architects such as Charles and Henry Greene. Unlike many other buildings at the Studios, Sid Cahuenga’s One-of-a-Kind is not based on a single, actual building, but is faithful to a style.
Inside the store, guests could rummage through Sid’s collection, looking for a cinematic collectible. Besides featuring unique collectibles, the store had another asset-Sid Cahuenga himself.
For 16 years Sid Cahuenga met and entertained guests inside his shop. With a touch of old-time showmanship, actor Danny Dillon portrayed Sid, warmly greeting guests who came to see his collection.
Dillon’s wife, Pam Brody, remembered “People would come into the store and ask if Sid was there. He’d go into his bag of tricks and do impersonations. He’d talk about vaudeville.”
Danny Dillon passed away in 2005, and the character of Sid Cahuenga was not recast. Instead, Disney decided to retire a character that had been a prominent part of the park from the day it opened.
Cahuenga might seem like a made up name, and there are several backstories as to its origin.
References:
With the “Golden Age of Hollywood” slowly fading from the Hollywood Studios, Sid Cahuenga’s shop attraction was also. In the late 2000s, some of the unique Hollywood merchandise began to be replaced with more conventional Disney art. In 2013, Sid Cahuenga’s One-of-a-Kind Antiques and Curios shop closed. Sid Cahuenga’s now serves as a PhotoPass hub. Although some Hollywood memorabilia is still showcased on the walls, and the Sid Cahuenga facade remains, the unique store from Hollywood’s past is now just another piece of Tinsel town history.
References:
It’s a great backstory, but its fiction. Sid Cahuenga and his store never existed in the real Hollywood. Sid and his store were invented by the Imagineers. There are several version, but this is the most accepted one.
The Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind Antiques and Curios shop structure is based on the California Bungalow residential style, as practiced by architects such as Charles and Henry Greene. Unlike many other buildings at the Studios, Sid Cahuenga’s One-of-a-Kind is not based on a single, actual building, but is faithful to a style.
Inside the store, guests could rummage through Sid’s collection, looking for a cinematic collectible. Besides featuring unique collectibles, the store had another asset-Sid Cahuenga himself.
For 16 years Sid Cahuenga met and entertained guests inside his shop. With a touch of old-time showmanship, actor Danny Dillon portrayed Sid, warmly greeting guests who came to see his collection.
Dillon’s wife, Pam Brody, remembered “People would come into the store and ask if Sid was there. He’d go into his bag of tricks and do impersonations. He’d talk about vaudeville.”
Danny Dillon passed away in 2005, and the character of Sid Cahuenga was not recast. Instead, Disney decided to retire a character that had been a prominent part of the park from the day it opened.
Cahuenga might seem like a made up name, and there are several backstories as to its origin.
- It pays tribute to the residents of Hollywood who are nicknamed Cahuenga after the end of the Mexican-American war was resolved in California by the Treaty of Cahuenga.
- And that name Cahuenga is associated with Hollywood because of Cahuenga Boulevard (a major cross street of Hollywood Boulevard), Cahuenga Pass (route of the Hollywood Freeway from Hollywood to the San Fernando Valley), and Campo de Cahuenga (a historic site near Universal City).
- The name Cahuenga comes from an Indian village called Cabuegna (with a b), which was located where Universal City is today. Somehow Cabuegna turned into Cahuenga (with an h).
References:
With the “Golden Age of Hollywood” slowly fading from the Hollywood Studios, Sid Cahuenga’s shop attraction was also. In the late 2000s, some of the unique Hollywood merchandise began to be replaced with more conventional Disney art. In 2013, Sid Cahuenga’s One-of-a-Kind Antiques and Curios shop closed. Sid Cahuenga’s now serves as a PhotoPass hub. Although some Hollywood memorabilia is still showcased on the walls, and the Sid Cahuenga facade remains, the unique store from Hollywood’s past is now just another piece of Tinsel town history.
References:
Mickey's of Hollywood
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Mickey’s of Hollywood is situated on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard across from the Crossroads of the World.
Mickey’s of Hollywood serves a similar function that the Emporium does on Main Street. It’s one of the main merchandise locations in Hollywood Studios, with a wide assortment of park souvenirs. Mickey’s of Hollywood is a reference to lingerie retailer Fredrick’s of Hollywood. The part of the first floor façade of the Hollywood Studios store is modeled after the original California storefront, which is also located on Hollywood Boulevard in California. 
Fredrick's of Hollywood
Mickey’s of Hollywood shop stretches behind 4 different facades (each inspired by real Hollywood buildings) down the whole block. (Façade is the face of a building given special architectural treatment)
The First façade of the Mickey’s of Hollywood building is modeled in a Spanish Colonial Revival style with little balconies and arched windows. It was inspired by the 1925 Baine building on Hollywood Boulevard at Whitley Avenue in California. In Hollywood, Col. Harry M. Baine had the Baine Building built in 1926. |
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Baine Building, 1928
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Baine Building, Today
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Col. Baine was a Hollywood businessman who was responsible for originating the Hollywood Christmas Parade.
As guests enter Mickey’s of Hollywood they will find a large variety of Disney's Hollywood Studio's merchandise; souvenirs, Disney clothing, jewelry, and toys of all shapes and sizes, including the Disney Railroad and Walt Disney World Monorail sets.
As guests enter Mickey’s of Hollywood they will find a large variety of Disney's Hollywood Studio's merchandise; souvenirs, Disney clothing, jewelry, and toys of all shapes and sizes, including the Disney Railroad and Walt Disney World Monorail sets.
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click on photo to enlarge.
In 2019, Mickey’s of Hollywood reopened after a period of refurbishment.
The refinished interior echoes the Art Deco design elements utilized in the recent refurbishment of other areas in Hollywood Studios.The store is open and airy, and feels much more spacious than the former layout of the shop.
How it looked previously. The décor had a more classic Disney look with a status of Steamboat Willie at the wheel just as guests entered. Circling the ceiling were two-dimensional representations of some of the other characters that starred in this classic.
The refinished interior echoes the Art Deco design elements utilized in the recent refurbishment of other areas in Hollywood Studios.The store is open and airy, and feels much more spacious than the former layout of the shop.
How it looked previously. The décor had a more classic Disney look with a status of Steamboat Willie at the wheel just as guests entered. Circling the ceiling were two-dimensional representations of some of the other characters that starred in this classic.
click on photo to enlarge.
After the 2019 remodeling:
click on photo to enlarge.
Reference:
- https://martinturnbull.com/2018/11/05/baine-building-6609-hollywood-blvd-at-whitley-ave-hollywood-circa-1928-2/
- http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2019/09/25/full-photo-tour-the-newly-reopened-mickeys-of-hollywood-in-disney-world/
- https://www.wdwinfo.com/walt-disney-world/a-look-inside-the-newly-refurbished-mickeys-of-hollywood-in-disneys-hollywood-studios/
2nd Façade
Mickey’s of Hollywood continues behind a black-and-gold façade with zig zag ornamentation.
Mickey’s of Hollywood continues behind a black-and-gold façade with zig zag ornamentation.
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The facade is a replica of a landmark bank building from Los Angeles’ Wilshire Boulevard.
In 1929, Security-First National Bank of Los Angeles built a bank branch externally sheathed glazed black terracotta, with bright gold accented terracotta detailing, fashioned in a Zigzag Moderne (Art Deco) ornamental facade on Los Angeles’s Miracle Mile, Wilshire Boulevard.
In 1929, Security-First National Bank of Los Angeles built a bank branch externally sheathed glazed black terracotta, with bright gold accented terracotta detailing, fashioned in a Zigzag Moderne (Art Deco) ornamental facade on Los Angeles’s Miracle Mile, Wilshire Boulevard.
1929 (when being built)
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current appearance
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The bank hired the architecture firm of Morgan, Walls and Clements. Morgan, Walls & Clements was an architectural firm based in Los Angeles, California and responsible for many of the city's landmarks, dating back to the late 19th century. The firm often worked in Spanish Colonial revival and Mayan revival styles.
The building now houses Southland Publishing, which publishes the newspaper Los Angeles CityBeat. In 2005, the Security-First National Bank building was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Reference:
The building now houses Southland Publishing, which publishes the newspaper Los Angeles CityBeat. In 2005, the Security-First National Bank building was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Reference:
Donald Duck the Autograph Hound
Throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Imagineers have included a wide variety of details convey to the guests the feeling of being in Hollywood’s Golden Age. One of these is the use of billboards featuring vintage or vintage-inspired artwork. On top of the Security-First National Bank’s façade part of “Mickey’s of Hollywood” is a billboard advertising a classic Donald Duck cartoon: “The Autograph Hound”, which was released in 1939. The artwork featured on billboard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is taken from the shorts original movie poster, and depicts a few of the celebrities Donald encounters in the film. From left to right, ice skater Sonja Henie, Katharine Hepburn, singer/comedian Martha Raye, Greta Garbo, and child star Shirley Temple can be seen peeking out from behind the guard trying to keep the Donald out.
Source:
Throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Imagineers have included a wide variety of details convey to the guests the feeling of being in Hollywood’s Golden Age. One of these is the use of billboards featuring vintage or vintage-inspired artwork. On top of the Security-First National Bank’s façade part of “Mickey’s of Hollywood” is a billboard advertising a classic Donald Duck cartoon: “The Autograph Hound”, which was released in 1939. The artwork featured on billboard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is taken from the shorts original movie poster, and depicts a few of the celebrities Donald encounters in the film. From left to right, ice skater Sonja Henie, Katharine Hepburn, singer/comedian Martha Raye, Greta Garbo, and child star Shirley Temple can be seen peeking out from behind the guard trying to keep the Donald out.
Source:
Pluto’s Toy Palace – 3rd Facade
Another façade for Mickey’s of Hollywood is named Pluto’s Toy Palace.
Pluto’s Toy Palace is a gift shop on Hollywood Boulevard. It’s most noticeable feature is the neon Pluto on top and vertical neon Pluto’s Top Palace.
Another façade for Mickey’s of Hollywood is named Pluto’s Toy Palace.
Pluto’s Toy Palace is a gift shop on Hollywood Boulevard. It’s most noticeable feature is the neon Pluto on top and vertical neon Pluto’s Top Palace.
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The store front looks fine during the day, but Hollywood Boulevard really shines at night when the signs are lit.
click on photo to enlarge.
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The store front was inspired by a Dog & Cat Hospital that was located N. Highland Ave., Hollywood.
The Dog-topped building in Hollywood was designed by architect Ted R. Cooper for Dr. Alexander Moxley’s veterinary practice. It was completed in 1930. Early photos show Dr. Moxley’s building without the Dalmatian, it’s unsure when the dog was added. There are also dogs in a bas relief above the lower windows facing North Highland. It’s now an office building (but without the dog). 
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Disney & Co.
Disney & Co. is the fourth building façade and continuation of Mickey’s of Hollywood along Disney’s Hollywood Boulevard.
Disney & Co. is the fourth building façade and continuation of Mickey’s of Hollywood along Disney’s Hollywood Boulevard.
click on photo to enlarge.
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Disney & Co. - Fashion extras has all the Disney accessories to complete the perfect outfit.
When Disney-MGM Studios opened in 1989, Disney & Co. was a brand name for Disney tee shirts and ready-to-wear. Thus, the corner location called for corner landmark and the Disney Imagineers were inspired by a building that played critical role during the Golden Age of the motion picture industry. In Disney & Co. Fashion Extra before refurbishment guests would find Mickey standing on a tambourine while conducting the “William Tell Overture.” Overhead was his fearless orchestra just before the fierce storm descends upon them. |
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The Agfa Ansco building is an excellent blend of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne styles that were prominent during Hollywood’s peak. This structure, during the Golden Age of the motion picture industry, housed work that was important for the early film industry: the photographic film, paper and cameras used to create movie magic. 
Agfa Ansco Building
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Agfa Ansco Building
Agfa Ansco Building
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The German camera and film company Agfa Ansco built the structure in 1937.
Agfa Ansco, which occupied the space for more than 20 years until the late 1950s, developed several breakthroughs in film technology that allowed other improvements, such as better lighting and color. After Agfa Ansco’s departure, the Birns & Sawyer Cine Equipment Company moved in and sell or rented filmmaking equipment to filmmakers: this included for major films like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Easy Rider”
Note: The current owner is Jeremy Scott s an American fashion designer.
The Agfa Ansco Corporation Building on Santa Monica Blvd. is now officially a historic-cultural monument.
Reference:
Agfa Ansco, which occupied the space for more than 20 years until the late 1950s, developed several breakthroughs in film technology that allowed other improvements, such as better lighting and color. After Agfa Ansco’s departure, the Birns & Sawyer Cine Equipment Company moved in and sell or rented filmmaking equipment to filmmakers: this included for major films like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Easy Rider”
Note: The current owner is Jeremy Scott s an American fashion designer.
The Agfa Ansco Corporation Building on Santa Monica Blvd. is now officially a historic-cultural monument.
Reference:
Keystone Clothiers – Hollywood & Vine entrance
Named for the early Hollywood studio of Mack Sennett. Keystone Studios opened in Edendale, California (which is now a part of Echo Park) in 1912. Keystone possessed the first fully enclosed film stage, and Mack Sennett became famous as the originator of slapstick routines such as pie-throwing and car-chases, as seen Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and of course, in the Keystone Cops films.
Named for the early Hollywood studio of Mack Sennett. Keystone Studios opened in Edendale, California (which is now a part of Echo Park) in 1912. Keystone possessed the first fully enclosed film stage, and Mack Sennett became famous as the originator of slapstick routines such as pie-throwing and car-chases, as seen Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and of course, in the Keystone Cops films.
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Keystone Clothiers is the largest clothes shop in Walt Disney World that features all things Star Wars such as Jedi robes and tunics, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Black Spire Outpost branded t-shirts, mugs, and hats, BB8 water bottles, and Star Wars toys for kids of all ages. In 2019 the shop went through a refurbishment. Prior to the refurbishment Keystone Clothiers offered a selection of Disney merchandise and Disney branded apparel.
Keystone Clothiers prior to refurbishment:
Keystone Clothiers prior to refurbishment:
click on photo to enlarge.
Guest would also find a statue of Mickey in his most famous role, “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.” With magical brooms line the ceiling here,
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Then after the 2019 renovation, STAR WARS.
click on photo to enlarge.
The Keystone façade was modeled after the petite Art Deco tower called the Wilshire Bowl was a popular restaurant and nightclub on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles. It opened in 1933 as a Restaurant. In 1943, it became Slapsy Maxie’s nightclub that offered dinner and dancing to the big-band sounds of Phil Harris' orchestra.
Note: Phil Harris was a comedian, actor, singer, and jazz musician. But most Disney fans would recognize him as the voice of Baloo in The Jungle Book, Thomas O'Malley in The Aristocats, and Little John in Robin Hood.
Note: Phil Harris was a comedian, actor, singer, and jazz musician. But most Disney fans would recognize him as the voice of Baloo in The Jungle Book, Thomas O'Malley in The Aristocats, and Little John in Robin Hood.
Wilshire Bowl Building, 1937
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Wilshire Bowl Building, 1943
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In 1951, the location became Van de Kamp’s Wilshire Coffee Shop, with a giant windmill mounted on a monolithic wall where the tower had once been. The site is now an Office Depot.
Like Mickey’s of Hollywood the exterior façade of the Keystone Clothiers has the appearance of several connected stores. The different names on the other facades are The Fashion Spot, Tailors to the Stars, and Hollywood Fashions.
click on photo to enlarge.
Reference
Like Mickey’s of Hollywood the exterior façade of the Keystone Clothiers has the appearance of several connected stores. The different names on the other facades are The Fashion Spot, Tailors to the Stars, and Hollywood Fashions.
- https://wdwthemeparks.com/shop/keystone-clothiers/
- https://www.laconservancy.org/locations/wilshire-bowlslapsy-maxies-demolished
- https://martinturnbull.com/2014/10/04/the-various-incarnations-of-5665-wilshire-blvd-the-wilshire-bowl-the-louisana-slapsie-maxies-van-de-kamps-coffee-shop/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keystone_Studios
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mack_Sennett
Like Mickey’s of Hollywood the exterior façade of the Keystone Clothiers has the appearance of several connected stores. The different names on the other facades are The Fashion Spot, Tailors to the Stars, and Hollywood Fashions.
The Fashion Spot
Next store front of the Keystone Clothiers Building is “The Fashion Spot” facade. It is a replica of the original Max Factor Building that was located on North Highland Ave in Hollywood.
Next store front of the Keystone Clothiers Building is “The Fashion Spot” facade. It is a replica of the original Max Factor Building that was located on North Highland Ave in Hollywood.
click on photo to enlarge.
In 1931, movie make-up pioneer Max Factor hired theater architect S. Charles Lee to transform the building on Highland Ave into a regal-looking Regency Deco style building.
The Max Factor Company no longer occupies the building. The one-story portion is now Mel’s Drive-In, a 1950s-nostalgia restaurant. The four-story portion, which inspired the Role Models façade at Disney’s California Adventure, is now the Hollywood Museum.
The Max Factor Company no longer occupies the building. The one-story portion is now Mel’s Drive-In, a 1950s-nostalgia restaurant. The four-story portion, which inspired the Role Models façade at Disney’s California Adventure, is now the Hollywood Museum.
1939
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2017
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Note: S. Charles Lee was an architect recognized as one of the most prolific and distinguished motion picture theater designers on the West Coast. Lee was an early proponent of Art Deco and Moderne style theaters. Reference: |
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Tailors to the Stars
Tailor to the Stars is another Keystone Clothiers building facades on Hollywood Boulevard side.
Tailor to the Stars is another Keystone Clothiers building facades on Hollywood Boulevard side.
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The inspiration came from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles.
It is still used by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power as a regional office to serve Lincoln Heights. The building is unique for its bold façade and two-foot high glass letters that read: “Municipal Light Water Power.”
It is still used by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power as a regional office to serve Lincoln Heights. The building is unique for its bold façade and two-foot high glass letters that read: “Municipal Light Water Power.”
Water and Power in Lincoln Heights
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Water and Power in Lincoln Heights
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The façade is in the Art Deco style with a bronze door, teal tiled and a sign with green iridescent glass letters. It was designed in the early 1930s by S. Charles Lee, who also designed the Max Factor Building.
The same design inspired the Hyperion Theatre at Disney’s California Adventure.
Reference:
The same design inspired the Hyperion Theatre at Disney’s California Adventure.
Reference:
- https://www.messynessychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/municipal1.jpg
- https://www.yesterland.com/replicas2.html
- https://www.ladwpnews.com/ladwp-to-reopen-landmark-art-deco-customer-service-center-on-daly-street-in-lincoln-heights/
- https://themouselets.com/10-real-life-places-that-inspired-disneys-hollywood-studios
- http://www.disneypix.com/Studios/Hollywood/2009a/HB0609-087.html
Keystone Clothiers – Plaza Side entrance
At the other end of Keystone Clothiers is Hollywood Fashions.
At the other end of Keystone Clothiers is Hollywood Fashions.
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Also known as Hollywood Fashions
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It was modeled after the Owl Drug Company Building built in 1933 at 6382 Hollywood Boulevard,Hollywood.
Owl Drug Company Building, 1970's
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Owl Drug Company Building, 1930's
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Owl Drug Company was a subsidiary of the Rexall stores. The architects that designed the building were the firm of Morgan, Walls and Clements. The building is an excellent example of the Streamline Moderne style popular in the 1920’s and 30’s.
Note: Morgan, Walls & Clements architectural designs were used for several of the Hollywood Boulevard facades
The drug store no longer in business, but the building at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Cahuenga Boulevard is still there.
Reference:
Note: Morgan, Walls & Clements architectural designs were used for several of the Hollywood Boulevard facades
The drug store no longer in business, but the building at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Cahuenga Boulevard is still there.
Reference:
Mayan Entrance
The unusual ornate Mesoamerican Revival façade of this entrance got its origin from the Mayan Theater that is located on South Hill St., Los Angeles. It was one of the three original corner entrances into the Keystone Clothiers building. Then it was closed and fitted with an ATM.
As part of the 2019 Keystone Clothiers refurbishment, it was reopened as the fifth entrance to the Keystone Clothier. This one is on the Echo Lake side.
The unusual ornate Mesoamerican Revival façade of this entrance got its origin from the Mayan Theater that is located on South Hill St., Los Angeles. It was one of the three original corner entrances into the Keystone Clothiers building. Then it was closed and fitted with an ATM.
As part of the 2019 Keystone Clothiers refurbishment, it was reopened as the fifth entrance to the Keystone Clothier. This one is on the Echo Lake side.
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This façade didn’t get its inspiration from an exterior but inside the Mayan Theater, its large, ornate lobby. The architect of the Mayan Theater was Stiles O. Clements of Morgan, Walls & Clements.(Architectural Firm sounds familiar?)
Since opening in August 1927, the magnificent theater had been a playhouse, a second-run movie house, a burlesque theater, an art film house, a Spanish-language cinema, and, since 1990, a nightclub.
The theater has been a location in many films, including Sally of the Scandals, The Bodyguard, Save the Tiger, Unlawful Entry, Rock 'n' Roll High School, and A Night at the Roxbury.
References:
The theater has been a location in many films, including Sally of the Scandals, The Bodyguard, Save the Tiger, Unlawful Entry, Rock 'n' Roll High School, and A Night at the Roxbury.
References:
The Great Astral Marge
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One of the windows above the Mesoamerican façade states “The future is in your Palm, The Great Astral Marge sees all” may be referring to Marge Champion.
Marge Champion was dancer, choreographer, and stage and screen actress, she was hired as a dance model for Walt Disney Studios animated films, such as:
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Sights & Sounds
Sights & Sounds was located on the southeast end of the Keystone Clothier Building, next to the Hollywood Fashion’s façade. It was a recording studio attraction in which Guests could create their own music video to take home as a souvenir.
Sights & Sounds was located on the southeast end of the Keystone Clothier Building, next to the Hollywood Fashion’s façade. It was a recording studio attraction in which Guests could create their own music video to take home as a souvenir.
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The studio was sponsored by music publishing company Selah. Sights & Sounds operated for little more than a year, starting at the opening of Disney-MGM Studios on May 1, 1989. A similar attraction was at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney. Not many guests took advantage of the prospect, thus neither location lasted very long. Eventually, Sights & Sounds shop became part of Keystone Clothiers during one of the refurbishment's. Today, all that remains is the original door and the marquee, with phrase, "You ought to be in pictures." Source: |
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Allen Smythee (or Alan Smithee) Window
Along the end of Hollywood Boulevard in a window on the Plaza side above the street you will find a unique reference to a tradition of sorts from classic Hollywood.
Allen Smythee, sometimes spelled Smithee, is a real director. Allen Smythee, or Alan Smithee are pseudonyms used from 1968 to today by Hollywood film directors who wanted to be dissociated from a film for which they no longer wanted credit. It was used when the director could prove to the satisfaction of a panel of members of the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers that the film had been wrested from his or her creative control. The director was also required to keep the reason for the disavowal a secret.
Along the end of Hollywood Boulevard in a window on the Plaza side above the street you will find a unique reference to a tradition of sorts from classic Hollywood.
Allen Smythee, sometimes spelled Smithee, is a real director. Allen Smythee, or Alan Smithee are pseudonyms used from 1968 to today by Hollywood film directors who wanted to be dissociated from a film for which they no longer wanted credit. It was used when the director could prove to the satisfaction of a panel of members of the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers that the film had been wrested from his or her creative control. The director was also required to keep the reason for the disavowal a secret.
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Traces:
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We have toured one side of Hollywood Boulevard and in the next Chapter we'll venture up the other side. Michael Eisner wanted Hollywood Boulevard to be the Main St USA of Hollywood Studios and from our tour, so far, he got his wish. The Shops on the Boulevard are attractions and entertainment. As we've seen The Disney Imagineers continued with their Magic in the Details. So during your next trip to Walt Disney World and Hollywood Studios take walk through Hollywood Boulevard and make sure you look up, down and around. Until Chapter 3 - Hollywood Boulevard - Part 2 |
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Afterword:
WDWMousing.com is designed to be a tour of Walt Disney World through photos. We have been to Walt Disney World countless times over the past 25 years and accumulated a magnitude of photos in that time. This website is an intention to combine two of our favorite pastimes, Walt Disney World and photography, and provide an insightful pictorial tour. While doing so, we've done an extensive research of the internet and literary sources for background information on each area and atrraction. The information is available, but most bits and pieces are scattered all over. WDWMousing doesn't intend to rewrite the stories, legends or data, but to try and collect it into one location with reference and links to the original articles and authors. And giving rightful credit. We've stumbled through quite a bit of mis-information, most of which came to life by fans because the origins were lost, forgotten or no one seems to remember. Over the past 25 years we've also lost most of the great Imagineers that helped develop, design and build the original concepts of Walt Disney World. So we believe it's extremely important to make sure that their efforts, intentions, details and creativity in making this Happiest Place on Earth isn't lost. So we ask for feedback, insights, and suggestions. Thank you WDWMousing 
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