California Dreaming: That Iconic Sign
California, the land of sunshine, celebrities, and questionable fashion choices, is also home to a sign so iconic, it's basically the state's middle name. No, I'm not talking about that guy who stands on the beach with a "Will code for food" sign. I'm talking about the Hollywood Sign.
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| What Sign Is Put Up In California That Is Still There Today |
From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon
You'd think a sign that's basically synonymous with fame and fortune would have had a glamorous inception, right? Wrong! It started life as a rather cheesy real estate ad called the "Hollywoodland" sign. Can you imagine? A bunch of developers trying to sell overpriced plots of land with a giant, blinking neon sign? Classic.
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But hey, sometimes the best-laid plans of mice and men (and real estate developers) go awry. The whole Hollywoodland thing didn't exactly set the world on fire, but the sign stuck around. And thank goodness it did, because it evolved into something much cooler.
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In 1949, they decided to drop the "land" part, probably because it was starting to sound a bit desperate. And just like that, we had the Hollywood Sign. A symbol of dreams, aspirations, and the occasional questionable reality TV show.
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More Than Just a Sign
It's not just the sign itself that's fascinating, it's the whole package. The location, the history, the countless movies and TV shows that have featured it - it's all part of the allure. It's like the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty, but with a touch of Tinseltown glitz.
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And let's not forget the people who've tried to mess with it over the years. There was that time someone changed it to "Hollyweed" on April Fool's Day. Classic prank, right? Or how about the time they tried to steal the H? Talk about a bold move.
How to Hollywood Sign
- How to get to the Hollywood Sign: While you can't hike directly to the sign, there are several hiking trails in Griffith Park that offer great views of it.
- How to take the perfect Hollywood Sign selfie: Find a spot with a clear view of the sign, use good lighting, and don't be afraid to experiment with angles.
- How to appreciate the Hollywood Sign's history: Do some research on its origins and the people involved in its creation and preservation.
- How to avoid becoming a Hollywood Sign wannabe: Remember, it's okay to dream big, but keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
- How to support the preservation of the Hollywood Sign: Consider donating to organizations dedicated to protecting this iconic landmark.
So there you have it, a brief but informative look at the Hollywood Sign. It's more than just a sign; it's a piece of California history and a symbol of the American Dream.
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