Site of Paul de Longpré Home

Renowned French painter Paul de Longpré’s home, which once stood on this corner, was one of Hollywood’s first major tourist attractions. In 1901, he built a palatial home and studio that featured Moorish architecture and elaborate gardens on a three-acre parcel. Tourism at the location came from Balloon Route Excursions, trolley trips via the Los Angeles Pacific Railroad, instituted by Charles M. Pierce. At peak popularity, the route brought 18 carloads daily to the home to visit the artist, his studio, and his colorful gardens. The home stood until 1927, when the estate was demolished to make way for a commercial building.