1

Origin of the name

Image: Brady Bellini

Contrary to what you might think, the name "Hollywood" has nothing to do with the film industry. The origin of the name of the city that would later become the Mecca of cinema is surrounded by many myths. One comes from the personal diary of a real estate developer named H. J. Whitley. Whitley recounts encountering an Asian man carrying logs on a dolly. When asked about it, the man reportedly replied, "hauling wood," which, to Whitley, sounded something like "holly-wood."

As colorful as this story may be, it is unlikely to be true. The legend that likely comes closest to reality involves Harvey Henderson Wilcox and his wife, Daeida, who purchased 120 acres of land west of Los Angeles. According to different theories, Daeida may have overheard the word on a train or picked it up from the estate name of an acquaintance from Illinois. Whatever the case, since the name was first written on Wilcox's 1887 land deed, it seems plausible that Daeida was the one responsible for naming the area.

2

Movie theaters were prohibited

Image: Arthur Rothstein, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

H. J. Whitley may not have christened the area, but he did a lot to promote its development. He invested heavily in installing electricity, built the Hollywood Hotel to attract land buyers, and developed the residential neighborhood of Whitley Heights. The area began to flourish, and by the early 20th century, the new municipality boasted a post office, a local newspaper, and two markets.

The inhabitants of Hollywood, by majority vote, decided to forbid the sale of liquor within the city, including in restaurants and hotels. Movie theaters were also banned . However, when Hollywood was incorporated into Los Angeles in 1910, which had no such restriction, history changed forever.

3

The motion picture industry conquers Hollywood

Image: Bain News Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

​​In the early 1900s, most film production companies were based in New York and New Jersey. However, the so-called "patent wars" encouraged them to move to the West Coast. At the time, the industry was virtually monopolized by Thomas Alva Edison, who owned the majority of the camera equipment patents.

Many companies rebelled against the abusive rates and decided to relocate to Los Angeles, where they could more easily evade these restrictions. In addition, the weather there was better and the days were longer, which allowed them to work more hours and spend less on electricity. If we add the low land prices to the mix, it’s no surprise that Hollywood became the ideal location to establish the capital of the motion picture industry.

4

The first film

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The prolific film director D. W. Griffith, who had already made around 50 short films in New York, was one of the many who migrated to Hollywood to get rid of patent restrictions. In fact, he directed the first film shot entirely in Hollywood. In Old California is a 17-minute western set during California’s Mexican era.

Later, in 1915, Griffith would release The Birth of a Nation , one of the most important and controversial films in the history of the seventh art. This film, also shot in Hollywood, solidified Griffith’s reputation as one of the pioneers of narrative filmmaking .

5

The first studio

Image: masbet christianto

The first permanent motion picture studio established in Hollywood was the Nestor Motion Picture Company, a subsidiary of the Centaur Film Company from New Jersey. In 1911, brothers David and William Horsley built a rudimentary stage behind the Blondeau Tavern, at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Gower Street. Production started immediately, with films such as Her Indian Hero and The Law of the Range .

Despite their pioneering efforts, the Nestor Company faced the same fate as many other small studios of the era: its lifespan was short . In 1912 it was absorbed by the emerging Universal Studios, although it kept its name until 1917. In the 1930s, the original building was demolished to build the Columbia Square facility.

6

The truth about the Hollywood sign

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The Hollywood Sign is a cultural icon not only of Los Angeles but of the entire United States. Do you know how it ended up on top of Mount Lee? In 1923, a publicist erected the famous 50-foot-tall white uppercase letters to promote a local real estate development called "Hollywoodland." The sign was originally intended to last only a year and a half, but the booming movie industry ensured its longevity.

With the great economic crisis of the 1930s, the company went bankrupt and the famous sign was neglected—even losing the "H," leaving it to read "Ollywoodland" for several years. In the late 1940s, the city decided to restore it, but the Chamber of Commerce ordered the last 4 letters to be removed so that it would no longer be associated with the company but with the town.

7

First Oscars ceremony

Image: Engin_Akyurt

Everyone knows that the Oscars are the world's most prestigious film awards. But did you know that the ceremony has been held annually for almost 100 years? On May 16, 1929, as talkies were just beginning to rise in popularity, 270 film industry personalities gathered at the Roosevelt Hotel. That evening, 15 statuettes were awarded to give the booming film industry an air of prestige and glamour.

The inaugural night was filled with interesting curiosities. For instance, the recipients of the awards were announced publicly three months before the ceremony . Additionally, the event was not broadcast in any form of media. Another fun fact: In the early years, the Academy Awards included a banquet. However, in 1942, due to increased attendance and the impact of World War II, the banquets were replaced with more modest theater ceremonies.

8

Walk of fame

Image: Neelix at en.wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Every high-profile artist has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—even the Muppets have one! Along 15 blocks in Hollywood Boulevard, approximately 2,800 five-pointed terrazzo-and-brass stars honor some of the world’s most beloved celebrities, including actors, directors, musicians, athletes, and even fictional characters.

In 1953, the head of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce came up with the idea of creating a publicity stunt to promote those whose names stand for glamour and prestige. Finally, in 1960, the first star prototypes were installed, honoring icons such as Joanne Woodward and Burt Lancaster. Today, this popular landmark is visited by millions of tourists every year.

9

Time capsule

Image: StockSnap

Few people know that beneath the mythical stars lies a very special treasure. To commemorate the Hollywood Walk of Fame's half-century of existence, the Chamber of Commerce buried a time capsule beneath the spot where it originated, at the corner of Hollywood Blvd. and Highland.

The 16 x 16 x 18-inch capsule holds an array of artifacts that celebrate Hollywood’s enduring mystique. Among its contents are the screenplay of Casablanca , recordings of Oscar ceremonies from 1960 to 2010, programs from the musicals Wicked and The Lion King , and messages from various Academy members. These priceless mementos are set to resurface during the Walk of Fame's 100th anniversary celebration in 2060.

10

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Image: Judyfan1922 at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

With its legendary sign, iconic Walk of Fame, and countless beloved films and celebrities, Hollywood truly has it all. For this reason, it is only fitting that the city also boasts a peaceful and beautiful resting place for stars after their deaths. Founded in 1899, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the final resting place of many stars, including Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, Don Adams, and Peter Lorre.

Located in the heart of Hollywood and adjacent to Paramount Studios, today this cemetery is a tourist attraction visited by many. In fact, on weekends during the summer the cemetery screens outdoor films for everyone to enjoy!

1

Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells

Image: Kenny Eliason

Waterparks are a funny thing. Adults go there almost exclusively to take their kids, but end up enjoying themselves, sometimes even more than the younger ones. Self-proclaimed as the " Waterpark Capital of the World ," Wisconsin Dells offers fun and adventure for kids and the aforementioned kids at heart.

Its multiple resorts include Noah’s Ark, the largest outdoor waterpark in the world, The Wilderness Resort, which has the largest indoor-outdoor combination, Bigfoot Ziplining, The Original Wisconsin Ducks, Devil’s Lake State Park, boat tours, spas, golf courses, casinos and much more.

2

City of Big Shoulders, Chicago

Image: Sawyer Bengtson

The Windy City needs no introduction but no Midwestern treasures list would be complete without mentioning it. As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, Chicago is a popular option for a weekend getaway. It houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches, or iconic sculptures like "The Bean."

Its incredible architecture is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan. Its virtually i nfinite food options , ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish, and its world-class museums , make for a must-visit.

3

Museum City, Kansas City

Image: gilber franco

Sitting on the state line between Missouri and Kansas, the City of Fountains has a vast assembly of museums ready to be discovered by visitors from all over the world.

From local landmarks like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, boasting an impressive collection of over 34,000 pieces and 5,000 years , the National WWI Museum and Memorial, The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, to the newly renovated Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, this city has it all.

4

Ozarks Lake, Missouri

Image: K. Mitch Hodge

Long before the TV series of the same name, the Ozarks was a region famous for its natural beauties, entertainment opportunities, and multiple cuisine options. This expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline has spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave, and various restaurants and resorts.

And if the water activities are not your thing, you can visit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

5

Wining and dining, Traverse City

Image: Pablo Merchán Montes

Traverse City may be famous for its slices of pie and tart cherries, which can be found at farm stands across the Up North region through late summer. But it has much more to offer its visitors.

Acres of wineries and orchards all along the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas' rolling hills are complimented by the Lake Michigan scenery and the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. And, when the summer season is over, the Traverse City area also boasts enviable skiing terrain, fat-tire bike trails, and snowmobile routes , making it an attractive destination for winter recreation.

6

Hiking paradise, Duluth

Image: Tom Gainor

This Minnesotan city located on the shores of Lake Superior is an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. Visitors of the Canal Park area can bike or walk along the Lakeway , a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, take pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge , and explore local art galleries .

Travelers can also tour all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or book a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. And, when hunger strikes, Duluth boasts a generous selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

7

Family trip favorite, Omaha

Image: Andrew Seaman

Whether you are into history, nature, arts, or the food scene, Omaha has it all. And, with attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , this city is a great choice for a family trip.

The Durham Museum is a great place for history buffs, the Lauritzen Gardens Botanical Center has an impressive collection of plants flowers, and trees, and its noteworthy restaurants and bars attract culinary visitors from around the world.

8

Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota

Image: Frank Thiemonge

The amazing Black Hills National Forest can be found at the western edge of South Dakota, where a small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness, making it a haven for outdoor activities.

Visitors of the Black Hills can hike, bike, ride horses, rock climb, and visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial , which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents.

9

Small-town charm, Mackinac Island

Image: leah hetteberg

If you are looking for a holiday destination with no cars or chain hotels and, instead, horse-drawn carriages and bed and breakfast accommodations in family-owned hotels , Mackinac Island might be the place you are looking for. Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, this Lake Huron island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind.

Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding , and a variety of eateries serving everything from American classics to its famous fudge.

10

Prince’s legendary Paisley Park Studios, Minneapolis

Image: DJ Johnson

The former home and recording studio of the "Purple Rain" composer is located outside of Minneapolis in Chanhassen, Minnesota. Prince built Paisley Park back in 1987 and lived here until he died in 2016.

His Royal Badness himself requested that his home be open to the public after his death and now fans can tour the complex and see the studio where he recorded some of his biggest hits and the soundstage where he rehearsed for tours.

1

It had a different name

Image: Luke Michael

Originally, the lyrics came from a poem titled "Defence of Fort M’Henry," written by Francis Scott Key in 1814 after he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. The sight of the American flag still flying after the battle inspired him.

The poem was printed in newspapers and set to music, but it wasn’t until more than a century later that it officially became the national anthem we know today.

2

It has four verses

Image: Serena Koi

Most of us only belt out the first one, but did you know "The Star-Spangled Banner" actually has four verses? The other three are rarely heard .

Francis Scott Key wrote additional verses exploring themes of resilience and freedom, but most people have never read those stanzas.

3

Key wasn’t a musician

Image: Steve Johnson

Contrary to what you might expect from the author of the nation’s most patriotic song, Francis Scott Key wasn’t a musician .

He was a lawyer and an amateur poet. He didn’t collaborate with a composer or choose a melody to set his lyrics to, either. He simply wrote the poem, which was later published nationally by The Analectic Magazine .

4

The tune was actually borrowed

Image: Ylanite Koppens

So how did the anthem get its music, then? A relative of Key realized that the lyrics of his poem fit perfectly with the tune of an already popular song, "To Anacreon in Heaven."

That song was actually a British drinking tune frequently sung in 18th-century gentlemen’s clubs. The melody was catchy, but its origins were anything but patriotic.

5

It was first sung in a Baltimore tavern

Image: andrew welch

One account claims that the anthem’s first public performance wasn’t at a grand concert or a government event, but in a Baltimore tavern in 1814.

According to the story, just weeks after Key wrote the lyrics, a local actor sang them to the tune of "To Anacreon in Heaven." The crowd loved it, and the song quickly spread.

6

It wasn’t the first choice

Image: Wesley Tingey

Believe it or not, "The Star-Spangled Banner" wasn’t America’s first choice for a national anthem. For over a century, songs like "Hail, Columbia" and "My Country, ’Tis of Thee" filled the role. It wasn’t until 1931 that Congress, under President Herbert Hoover, officially designated Key’s anthem as the nation’s song.

7

The tradition of singing it before sports

Image: Frankie Lopez

The tradition of singing the anthem at sporting events began during the 1918 World Series . The crowd’s emotional response was so powerful that more and more baseball games adopted the practice.

Today, it’s hard to imagine a baseball game without it. Many other sports—including American football, hockey, and basketball—have since followed suit.

8

Aretha Franklin’s rendition is the longest

Image: Stas Knop

Aretha Franklin's rendition of "Star-Spangled Banner" is the longest recorded performance of the national anthem, lasting an impressive 4 minutes and 55 seconds . In contrast, most renditions take under two minutes!

She performed it in 2016 at an NFL game, breaking the previous record set by Alicia Keys three years earlier, whose version lasted 2 minutes and 36 seconds.

9

An unsuspected first recording voice

Image: Sudhith Xavier

The first known recording of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was made in 1915 by Margaret Woodrow Wilson . Yes, the daughter of President Woodrow Wilson.

Her rendition, though not as polished as modern versions, marked the anthem’s entry into the world of recorded music. Who would have thought the president’s daughter would be a trailblazer?

10

Jimi Hendrix’s Woodstock performance

Image: Xie lipton

Jimi Hendrix’s electric guitar rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock in 1969 remains one of the most famous—and controversial—performances of the anthem.

His distorted, soulful, and modern interpretation hypnotized the crowds and became a powerful cultural statement amid the turbulence of the 1960s. Some saw it as a protest; others, as a masterpiece. Either way, we still talk about it.

11

A song for all occasions

Image: frank mckenna

Originally, "The Star-Spangled Banner" wasn’t intended solely as a national anthem. It was a patriotic song for all occasions —political rallies, public celebrations, and more. The anthem is as popular as it is versatile, and so it has been played in endless scenarios—and in countless versions!