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Hollywood Canteen

  • Jun 4, 2023
  • 2 min read

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)
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, Judy Garland, Hedy Lamarr, and Linda Darnell could be found behind the counter slinging drinks, waiting on tables, even doing the dishes.

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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. 

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