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BEFORE THE 101

Hollywood’s first 50 years, until the freeway paved paradise in 1954

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1940s Hollywood Regency photography studio on the Sunset Strip

1940s Hollywood Regency photography studio on the Sunset Strip

Paul Hesse Studio on the Sunset Strip

All of the Hollywood stars came to Paul Hesse’s Studio to be photographed: Carole Lombard, Bette Davis, Lana Turner, Judy Garland, Hedy Lamarr, Rita Hayworth, Ava Gardner, Shirley Temple, Gene Tierney, Lauren Bacall, and on and on.

Sep 17, 2025

Ciro's Hollywood nightclub

Ciro's Hollywood nightclub

Ciro’s on the Sunset Strip

“The most attractive nightclub Hollywood has ever known” opened its doors at 8433 Sunset Boulevard in 1940.

Feb 22, 2025

Hollywood Canteen

Hollywood Canteen

Hollywood Canteen

During World War II, servicemen on liberty passes in Los Angeles could stop by the Hollywood Canteen on Cahuenga Boulevard for a night of revelry — and plenty of star sightings. Hollywood Canteen, 1451 Cahuenga Boulevard (California State Library) Cofounded by Bette Davis and John Garfield, the Canteen was staffed entirely by volunteers from the entertainment industry (actors, directors, producers, writers, grips, secretaries). Everyone from Davis herself to Rita Hayworth, Ju

Jun 4, 2023

About the Creator

Before the 101 is the brainchild of Kathleen Perricone

A mid-century enthusiast, Kathleen was born about 50 years too late. Fortunately, as a history buff she gets to live in the past.

The Hollywood resident is a published author who has written about influential figures such as John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Barack Obama, Anne Frank, Taylor Swift, and dozens more.

Over the past two decades, she's also worked as a celebrity news editor in New York City as well as for Yahoo!, Ryan Seacrest Productions, and a reality TV family who shall remain nameless.

for inquiries, please contact: BeforeThe101@gmail.com

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