Fun with Maps ISSUE 2025-057

By Steve Kovacs (Introduction by Chuck Gibson)

LOVELAND, OH (March 28, 2025) – In today’s edition of Fun with Maps, we take a look at concrete stars…only in Hollywood!

TINSELTOWN HISTORY

Today is the 65th anniversary of the first permanent star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  On March 28, 1960, director Stanley Kramer was honored by placing a star near the intersection of Hollywood and Gower.

Although Kramer is recognized as the first permanent honoree, in 1958 eight temporary stars were placed at the corner of Hollywood and Highland to show what the vision was for the Walk.

Today the Hollywood Walk of Fame makes up 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles.  The newest recognition was just installed this week, on Monday March 24th.  Country music superstar Trisha Yearwood’s star brings the total to 2805.

To get a star, applications must be sent to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.  This year’s selection period is just about to begin – April 1st – and runs through May 15th.  The star and ceremony cost $75,000, which must be paid by the nominee’s sponsors.

The six recognized categories are: motion pictures, television, radio, recording, live theater/performance, and sports entertainment.

Would Crazy Legs of the 1869 Red Stockings qualify?

This commercial map of Hollywood is from 1930.

Steve Kovacs and his wife Theresa reside in Loveland, Ohio where they raised their two children. He is a passionate collector of antique maps.

Visit his antique map boutique world-on-paper online. Watch for his daily feature Steve Kovacs: Fun with Maps here on Loveland Beacon.