Little Hollywood, a hidden gem in San Francisco’s southeastern corner, is a neighborhood with a unique history and architectural charm. Spanning just 0.25 square kilometers, this small enclave is home to approximately 1,165 residents.
In This Article
Key Points
- Little Hollywood gained its name from the architectural style of its first houses, resembling homes in the Hollywood Hills
- The neighborhood features a mix of Spanish, Mediterranean, and Craftsman bungalow-style homes
- Today, Little Hollywood is a quiet, friendly community with a strong sense of identity and easy access to commute corridors
The History and Development of Little Hollywood
The area now known as Little Hollywood was originally developed by the Crocker Estate Company in the early 1920s as part of the “Bayshore Tract”. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, local builder William H. Grahn constructed houses in the neighborhood, using architect Charles Strothoff to design Spanish and Mediterranean-style homes.
The name “Little Hollywood” was first used by real estate agents Becher & Turner in 1943 to describe the neighborhood’s resemblance to the fanciful Storybook houses of Southern California. The name stuck, and soon the entire tract was known as Little Hollywood.
Architectural Highlights of Little Hollywood
Little Hollywood is known for its distinctive architectural styles, particularly the Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired homes designed by Charles Strothoff. These houses feature exquisite details such as red clay tile trim, molded exterior staircase walls, and cathedral windows.
Another notable architectural style in the neighborhood is the Craftsman bungalow, which contributes to the area’s unique historic charm. Preservation efforts have helped maintain the neighborhood’s character, with many homes dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.
Cultural Tapestry of Little Hollywood
Despite its small size, Little Hollywood has a strong sense of community and a friendly, small-town appeal. The neighborhood has become a haven for local artists, particularly those who create art from recycled materials.
Little Hollywood Park, located on Lathrop Avenue, serves as a community gathering space with a children’s playground, sports facilities, and a dedication to resident Clarence Fleming for his role in establishing the park.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Little Hollywood’s location provides easy access to several outdoor recreational opportunities. The Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, just minutes away, offers hiking, running, bird-watching, windsurfing, and fishing. The park features fishing piers, picnic sites, and acres of open space for relaxing and enjoying nature.
Within the neighborhood, Little Hollywood Park provides a space for residents to enjoy a variety of activities, including playing on the playground, tossing a frisbee, or shooting hoops on the basketball court.
Community and Civic Engagement
Little Hollywood residents have a history of active community engagement, particularly when it comes to addressing environmental concerns. In the late 1990s, residents sent a letter to then-Mayor Willie Brown, voicing their complaints about dust, odors, and pollutants generated by the nearby Norcal/Sanitary Fill Co. plant (now Recology).
The community has also been involved in establishing and maintaining Little Hollywood Park, demonstrating their commitment to creating and preserving shared spaces for the neighborhood.
Future Outlook and Developments
As a primarily residential neighborhood, Little Hollywood’s future developments are likely to focus on maintaining the area’s unique character and architectural heritage. The community’s involvement in planning and preservation efforts will play a crucial role in shaping the neighborhood’s future.
FAQ
What is the origin of the name “Little Hollywood”?
The name “Little Hollywood” was first used by real estate agents in 1943 to describe the neighborhood’s resemblance to the fanciful Storybook houses of Southern California.
Can you describe some of the architectural styles found in Little Hollywood?
Little Hollywood features a mix of Spanish, Mediterranean, and Craftsman bungalow-style homes, many of which were designed by architect Charles Strothoff in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
What are some must-visit places in Little Hollywood for a first-time visitor?
First-time visitors to Little Hollywood should check out Little Hollywood Park, a community gathering space with a playground and sports facilities. The nearby Candlestick Point State Recreation Area is also worth a visit for its hiking trails, fishing piers, and picnic sites.
How can someone get involved in the Little Hollywood community?
Getting involved in the Little Hollywood community can be as simple as attending neighborhood events, volunteering at Little Hollywood Park, or joining local organizations that focus on community improvement and preservation efforts.
What are the future development plans for Little Hollywood?
As a primarily residential neighborhood, future development plans for Little Hollywood are likely to focus on maintaining the area’s unique character and architectural heritage, with community involvement playing a key role in shaping the neighborhood’s future.
