hollywood – Phantom of the Backlots

Marion Davies/Judy Garland Historic Make Up Trailer Connection

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026 Phantom of the BacklotLeave a comment

Black and white portrait of a woman with curly hair, making a 'shh' gesture with her finger to her lips.

The Secret is Out…

Close-up of a young girl with braided hair and blue bows, looking surprised or concerned.

Judy Garland has now been confirmed as a former owner of the Marion Davies portable make-up trailer.

Many exciting discoveries have emerged since my last post about the Marion Davies portable dressing room that I unveiled from a Culver City backyard. (See my YouTube on The Phantom of the Backlots site.)

For example, affirmation from newspaper articles revealing that Judy Garland once owned this trailer and used it during the first three months of filming The Wizard of Oz! The Ruby Slippers may very well have clicked their heels in this magical dressing room.

The trailer was originally built for Marion Davies during “Beverly of Graustark” for MGM. It was publicized as being beautifully decorated with furnishings and taffeta pillows of rainbow colors.

Marion formed a close relationship with Marie Dressler, another of MGM’s biggest stars. Marion decorated the trailer in blue and grey and gifted it to Dressler after filming “The Patsy”, who entertained and lounged in it for several years. Marie held court with many MGM co-stars like Norma Shearer, Rudy Vallee, Jean Harlow, Maureen O’Sullivan, Jack Benny, Robert Young, Hedda Hopper and of course Wallace Beery.

After Marie’s death, the make-up trailer was auctioned and the winning bid came from Marie’s longtime friend, May Robson. Robson was another big star at the time!

Next, it was given to Judy Garland (described as her first “grown-up” dressing room.) Judy would only use this portable room for a year. She was given a new trailer by MGM in December of 1938. At the ribbon cutting, Judy is said to have given out autographed pictures to the cast members of The Wizard of Oz.

Its final destination was the backyard of Fred Trowbridge, an actor and friend of May Robson. Fred appeared in all of May’s stage plays and helped manage her affairs when May got older. Fred adopted and had the trailer moved to his backyard at 9024 Lucerne Avenue in Culver City, where it sits today. Per telephone book listings, Fred appears to have lived at this residence from 1936 through at least 1956. The trailer could have been set in its present location as early as December of 1938 (when Judy vacated it).

Speculation: If this trailer was moved to the Lucerne address, which butts up to the 40-acre lot (and at one time was part of the lot) this dressing room/make-up station would surely have been in demand by the studio for touch ups or relaxation during the time of filming on “Gone With the Wind.” With so many stars and featured players on “Gone With the Wind” at one time, available portable dressing rooms were at a premium and hard to find, especially on the backlot. Saving time by saving actors precious steps to their dressing rooms, was a necessity.

A quote from Margaret Mitchell’s Gone With the Wind seems appropriate: “Perhaps-I want the old days back again and they’ll never come back, and I am haunted by the memory of them and of the world falling about my ears.”

Of all the amazing experiences I have had, both trespassing and in my long studio career, this is the most sensational item I have ever come across. Plus, it’s the ultimate studio game of CLUE. I get chills looking into the soul of these mirrors. They stare back with a depth and richness that only history can create. I feel it was my calling to save this unit from the claws of developers at this corner.Written and lived by Donnie Norden and researched with a little help from my friends, Mike Escarzaga, Maureen Miller and Henry Tegeler

Black and white portrait of a young woman with long, wavy hair, wearing a vintage dress with puff sleeves and a bow at the neckline, looking directly at the camera.

How did I get here? Read on to retrace the steps of the most iconic trailer in Hollywood. An early still taken October 13, 1938 when Judy occupied the Marion Davies portable makeup trailer. They would go with shorter hair during the filming of the Wizard of Oz.

A decorative black door with intricate designs on the left, and a dilapidated entrance of an abandoned structure made of wood on the right.

Marion Davies trailer in 1925 and the makeup trailer today. In 1925, Marion Davies is presented her new portable dressing room during the filming of “Beverly of Graustark”. She would go on to use the trailer for “The Red Mill”, “Tillie the Toiler”, The Fair Coed”, and “Quality Street”.

A group of five people in early 20th-century attire, standing in front of a closed movie theater door with a 'CLOSED' sign. They appear to be upset or disappointed, holding ice cream cones.

A woman in a black dress looks surprised while another woman in a short white dress balances an apple on her head and holds another apple in her hand.

Marion Davies and Marie Dressler in front of the trailer during the filming of “The Patsy”. December 25, 1930: Marion Davies gifted her portable dressing room to Marie Dressler after filming “The Patsy”. (The Mirror, Feb 28, 1931, page 9). In 1928, Marion would star in “Show People” which good pal Charlie Chaplin made a cameo appearance in. Marie Dressler co-starred with Chaplin in his first feature film at his Keystone Studios. “Tillie’s Punctured Romance”, 1914.

A smiling man with curly hair wearing a bow tie and a suit in a vintage black and white photo.

Two young women in 1920s athletic attire standing in an arched doorway, wearing matching short-sleeved tops and shorts, posing confidently.

Hello Ladies! Left: Charlie Chaplin in “Show People”. Right: Marion and good friend Eleanor Boardman in costumes from “The Fair Coed”. Eleanor did not star in the film. Eleanor married Director King Vidor at Marion’s house. Marion was ready to upgrade and graduated to a much larger trailer which Charlie called “The Trianon”.

A vintage-style stool with a turquoise padded seat and a red rim, supported by a black metal base, placed against a decorative wallpaper with leaf patterns.

A large, illuminated mirror surrounded by lights, with a vintage suitcase placed in front.

During Marion’s occupancy, it was adorned in taffeta pillows in a rainbow of colors. Marion especially decorated the trailer for Marie in blue and grey complete with chaise, mirrors, dressing table and other amenities. (The Southwest Wave Nov. 28, 1933). Marie was a frequent visitor of Marion and Randolph Hearst at the San Simeon castle. As described in the article, blue and grey rug remnant, powder blue stool, original mirror which still spectacularly lights up. This room talks through images-captured inside these mirrors, like a genie in a bottle.

A newspaper article excerpt discussing Marie Dressler's activities and preferences during productions, highlighting her love for companionship and her use of a portable dressing bungalow.

A historic black and white photo of four individuals at a banquet, two women embracing with an Oscar trophy, while two men watch, one dressed in a tuxedo.

Marie left her door open for her friends. Many of her friends were MGM stars and co-stars, like Marion Davies, Charlie Chaplin, Norma Shearer, Jean Harlow, Lionel Barrymore, Wallace Beery and even Greta Garbo. Dressler won the Academy Award for “Min and Bill.” Seen here with Norma Shearer, her friend and MGM co-star. Marie would make many movies for MGM while enjoying this trailer until her death on 07/28/34.

A glamorous woman in a vintage black dress poses elegantly with a large feather boa and a fan, showcasing a classic Hollywood style.

A glamorous woman in a stylish, form-fitting evening gown poses elegantly with a fan, set against a backdrop featuring artistic patterns.

May I touch up my look? Left: Norma Shearer and Marie Dressler starred in “Let Us Be Gay” MGM 1930. Norma would ultimately give her portable dressing room (presented to her by Irving Thalberg) to Mickey Rooney in 1939. A scandal would result (according to Mickey Rooney’s autobiography “Life is Too Short”.

A glamorous woman in a sleek, form-fitting satin dress striking a pose against a dark backdrop with a decorative emblem.

A glamorous woman in a silky robe using a powder puff while looking into a hand mirror, with vanity items visible on the table.

Another beautiful co-star Jean Harlow “Dinner at Eight”.

Historical gathering featuring Franklin D. Roosevelt, Marie Dressler, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford at a Liberty Loan drive in 1918, surrounded by a crowd. — ***Picture from Marie Dressler’s “My Own Story” (1934)***

A newspaper article from 'The Mirror' dated February 28, 1931, discussing Marion Davies presenting Marie Dressler with a portable star dressing room and noting that both actresses share the same initials 'M.D.'

Fun Fact!

An article titled 'May Robson's Memento' discussing actress May Robson, along with a black and white portrait of her. The text highlights her career and a dressing room associated with her friend, actress Marie Dressler.

1935-November: May Robson, Oscar nominated actress, was the highest bidder of the portable dressing room from the estate of her lifelong friend Marie Dressler, who passed away on 07/28/34. (Albuquerque Journal}. But wait… There’s more to come for this opulent trailer!

A vintage magazine cover of Motion Picture featuring a woman with curly red hair and the caption 'I Didn't Think It Could Happen Again' by Virginia Bruce, alongside a black and white image of a young girl, Judy Garland, in a dress, standing in front of a plain backdrop. Below, there is a text block discussing Garland's portable dressing room that belonged to Marie Dressler.

1937-December: Judy Garland receives the Marion Davies portable dressing room (Motion Picture Magazine Feb ’38). She would employ this “Tiny Green Room on Wheels” for one year, including 3 months into the filming of the Wizard of Oz, before she receives a new trailer for Christmas in December of 1938.

A vintage door featuring a curved top, intricate designs, and two sidelights with decorative glass panels.

Weathered wooden door with an arched top, featuring a rusty latch and intricate metal detailing.

On the right, you can see some of the green paint from when Judy Garland owned it, which she refers to in the article above, her “tiny, square, green room on wheels.”

An old newspaper advertisement featuring illustrations of Judy Garland and a young girl playing the piano, with a headline that reads 'IT'S TRUE' and text discussing Judy Garland.

Judy is thrilled over the tiny portable dressing room once belonged to Marion Dressler. (Richmond Conservator December 2, 1937, Pg. 5)

A vintage metal nameplate engraved with 'MGM' and 'JUDY GARLAND'.

Judy’s Dressing Room Nameplate

A collage of vintage black-and-white and color photographs featuring a woman in various outfits, including a formal gown, casual dresses, and a blazer, depicted in different indoor settings. Some images show her with another woman, while others display her alone, sitting or standing.

1938-December: As a Christmas gift symbolizing her “new star” status at MGM, Judy Garland receives a “New” portable dressing room from MGM replacing the Marion Davies trailer. Six months later, Garland almost burned down this trailer while cooking in there and the curtains caught fire!

A black and white photograph featuring May Robson and Fred Trowbridge, with text discussing their roles and contributions in a production.

After December 1938, Fred Trowbridge, actor and friend of May Robson adopts and moves the dressing room from MGM to 9024 Lucerne Avenue in Culver City, where it sits today. The articles above and below show how important Fred was to May.

A newspaper clipping discussing Fred Trowbridge's house in Culver City, featuring details about a cherished dressing room filled with pictures.

A black and white photo of a formal dinner setting with several men seated at a long table, focusing on a well-dressed speaker standing at the front, addressing the group.

Fred Trowbridge covers the portable dressing room with shingles to preserve it. (Mentioned in Robson’s Obituary article in the Evening Vanguard dated Oct. 22, 1942). Right: Fred Trowbridge seen here at the Examiner party in “Citizen Kane” 1941. A short walk to work-just through his backyard and on the lot!

A woman holding a clapperboard labeled 'MAKE-UP STILL' with a serious expression, dressed in period clothing, outdoors with trees and a building in the background.

Aerial view of Tara, highlighting its layout in relation to a nearby white-roofed house, with an arrow indicating the location of the dressing room.

Let’s get swept up in the most idyllic scenario possible… As portable dressing rooms were in high demand, owners of this portable make-up station/dressing room would find a win-win situation in leasing it out as it was in the 60’s and 70’s during the Desilu phase of Television filming. It would make sense that it was loaned out as early as December 26, 1938, when Judy vacated it. This portable room which had electricity, would surely have been in demand by the studio for touch-ups or relaxation during the filming of Gone With the Wind when there were so many stars and featured players on the set at one time and available portable dressing rooms were at a premium and hard to find.

An article discussing the necessity of portable dressing rooms for film stars to save time during filming due to large studio sizes and distance between sets and dressing rooms.

The Boston Globe Nov. 14, 1932: why stars have portable dressing rooms.

A vintage newspaper clipping featuring an article about Joan Fontaine and Olivia de Havilland, discussing Fontaine's role in 'Rebecca' and a humorous encounter regarding De Havilland's old dressing room.

dingy little room somewhere on the backlot?” A shortage of dressing rooms stirs up a little sibling rivalry. “Rebecca” (Hitchcock directing, Selznick producing) on the lot the same time as “GWTW” reshoots. The Daily Mirror Nov. 4, 1939.

A collage of classic television scenes featuring characters from various shows, including a humorous moment with a group in military uniforms, and recognizable superheroes with villains.

From 1943-1959 we don’t know if the Portable Dressing Room was loaned out to productions on the 40-acre backlot but testimony from residents would confirm the loan of the dressing room in the early 1960s. This was a busy time for Television production on the adjacent lot. Hence, there was great need to tend to actors out on the 40-Acre Backlot for touch ups, since the Studio Main Lot was nearly a quarter of a mile away. The subsequent occupants loaned the trailer out to shows filming on the backlot to Hogan’s Heroes, Batman and The Andy Griffith Show (Residents of Lucerne).

A small, beige house with a garden, featuring large windows and a pathway made of stone steps.

Home of former actor Fred Trowbridge and the infamous make-up trailer. During the TV revolution, Spock, Bruce Lee, Andy Griffith and Gomer Pyle are just some of the faces and characters who have been in and around here. The Batmobile was parked out front here, with witnesses having seen Batman drinking a can of beer from a brown paper bag. All these old homes are part of this film culture, inside and out. This corner in Culver City is centered between what was Desilu and Hal Roach studios. If TV Land has a neighborhood, this is it!

A small, weathered wooden shed partially obscured by tree branches and greenery.

The portable dressing room is still covered with shingles for preservation put there by Fred Trowbridge. (Mentioned in Robson’s Obituary article in the Evening Vanguard dated Oct. 22, 1942). Thank you, Fred, for doing your part in preserving this grand piece of history! For a deeper dive, here is the link to the Original post, you can experience the timeless elegance of the trailer and all of the wonderful artifacts found inside see the original article per the link provided here: Marion Davies Portable Dressing Room is found 100 years later in a Culver City Backyard! – Phantom of the Backlots

Aerial view of a small, rustic settlement featuring wooden shacks, dirt roads, and sparse vegetation, with a few palm trees in the background and a prominently marked building indicated by a red arrow.

The trailer is barely visible in this shot just behind Stalag 13 sets. As a kid, my passion to escape into Stalag 13 took me through this private yard, regularly starting in 1972. I had to first sneak into this yard before climbing a second fence that puts me right behind Stalag 13. In between the two fence climbs lies a unique structure covered with shingles. My initial encounter with this shed was just an observation as I climbed into Desilu.

Promotional poster for 'The Phantom of the Backlots' event at the Culver City Historical Society, featuring various historical images and a central figure of a child. The event is scheduled for April 28th at 7 PM.

Book cover for 'Phantom of the Backlots: Hole in the Fence' featuring a faded map design.

Thanks for taking the time to read my stories. For more Backlot Adventures, check out my books on Amazon.

Film Universal- The Brochure

March 2, 2026 Phantom of the BacklotLeave a comment

All production services your company can possibly need can be fabricated, built, produced on this the biggest and most grand studio in Hollywood. We provide power sources, air conditioning, transportation rentals, lighting equipment and professional staff at every level including post production services. Your one stop shop for film service…Universal Studios.

Just behind this Neon sign are…Animal Actors-

***Always on stand buy- when not starring in their own shows.***

Our residential look-does not get as much action as Colonial Street. That street looks down to this one from a higher hill side.

House used in-To Kill a MockingBird. Real interior filming can take place inside this set. Rooms, doors, carpet greet you- furniture can be rented from our Property Department.

Ready to move in-yes indeed–we rent furnishings.

Yes we rent snow-earth, wind and fire.

No studio has more exterior sets and landscapes as Universal. Included is a water basin and sky backdrop. Any ocean needs- we provide wave makers, wind machines, boats, aquatic personnel, and every conceivable prop from the distant past to present day. From Pirate Ships to Fancy Yachts-Pyro technical often happens safely with our team of specialists at your beck and call. All for cost-rent us, you won’t regret the first class service.

Falls Lake- Backdrop, here dressed for Pirates of the Caribbean

Underwater, above water, film Universal. Only one backdrop water basin exists besides ours- Paramount has the other. This basin is currently being used in Jumangi, starring The Rock and Jack Black.A train set has been built in the basin-void of water for this film.

Do you need a bridge? We have the room, the backdrop for the Green Screen, and an expert metal shop.

Park Lake=This body of water separates for trams to experience-The Parting of the Red Sea.

Skull Island for King Kong

Skull Island/ Red Sea – miniature ship-promoting King Kong, the animation Universal replaced the burned up Kong with. No longer mechanical, it is virtual in the experience, This Studio Tour in the future will be roller coasters and virtual Fast and Furious virtual encounters.

The Backlot is so extensive, we have a set for anything you can possibly need. If we don’t- then we can build it. New York City is hard to film, but New York at Universal allows those technical difficult shots to easily be controlled and manipulated. Spiderman features come use this backlot for Spider Action involving the Spider Cam that runs on cables or zip lines creating P.O.V of the Super Hero perspective of creating and traversing a spider web network sensationalism.

A calm morning before “Bruce” the Shark awakens…Named after Steven Spielberg’s attorney.

Sharks for rent-dead or alive!

“I can fit into your budget, I’m one of the oldest stars left in Hollywood.”.

Cabot Cove is also…JAWS

***Where the past, present, and future intertwine***

From Leave it to Beaver to Back to the Future and a million shows in between-From small towns to large airplanes, we have a stage built just for these scenes-called the 747 Stage, it is located behind New York Street on our backlot. In Hone Alone 2- this is the plane the family split up on. New York Street was also used as Kevin outsmarts his potential captors….The Clocktower from Back to the Future sits above Courthouse Square to promote the film to our Tram Guests and top photo was called Rock Hudson Circle- tour guides joked “It’s Rock Hudson a circle because it goes both-ways.”.Joke went over well back in the day.

This generations- Dennis the Menace, Kevin McCallister boarding a prop designed to be an airplane interior.

Scenes done in our 747 Stage…located in the backlot behind New York Street.

Well, so much here, we have had 3 New York Streets in my career here. The original burned down destroying 21 picture cars like the one pictured here. The film titled “Oscar” and the sets along with these irreplaceable vintage cars. Directed by John Landis, starring Sylvester Stallone.

A production disaster…

Things happen around here but we are insured and bonded. But the cars ruined on Brownstone Street are irreplaceable. What survived-the 747 stage and Courthouse Square-top of frame-the square building right side ended up being torn down. Inside was Kong for the Glamour Tram Tour.

*Get me out of here….Is this fire real or fake*?

Big Apes -we got them also.

All this area burned in 1990-a year later-these several blocks were rebuilt and the Disney feature “NEWSIES”- a musical feature christened New York Street 2.

Disney’s film “Newsies” inaugurated New York Street 2 in a high budget Musical.

Alleyways available for rent.

We can light the lot in any style you need with our’ second to none’ Set Lighting department, always at your service. Pictured here -Spiderman left-Bruce Almighty right.

This car -will be launched into this delicatessen like a sling shot. You dream it, we make it happen.

The deli being prepared for a car to fly through it-not C.G.I-this is all real. Pictured right, the backside of this soon to be destroyed set. Spiderman ‘Sony’ comes to Universal for those hard to get shots.

We have a Fire Department on the lot to oversee all pyrotechnique activity-Do your explosive scenes here at Universal. Last blasts must “go off” or detonate before 10 P.M. A courtesy for our neighbors, you can film all night-minus gunfire.

The last western street in Hollywood was used a just that in -‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’

We can make you a cowboy in a matter of minutes...

The roads are paved under this dirt covered street. Trams visit the old west daily and dirt kicks up too much dust, the dirt is removed immediately after filming.

The last Western Street left standing these days in a major studio is…Universal Studios.

This two story building is located in the hub of 6 Points Texas. A legendary ghost town that links back to all the Universal westerns including the last western classic T.V series…Alias Smith and Jones..The bricks are rubber…why, for fight sequences. Cowboys could be slammed into the walls and soften the blows. Some doors are built smaller to make the cowboys seem larger than life.

Two men sitting on directors' chairs in a Western film set, with wooden buildings in the background.

Take it from Soup, this guy has lived it…

“Soup” is his name, he is an image etched on a wall just inside a door across from the saloon used in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. This art dates far back in Universal History, truly-Once Upon a Time is this backlot, especially this street.

When the old west is needed, there is only one backlot left to flip the bill…Universal Studios.

The old west-Once Upon a Time at Universal. Pete Duel and Ben Murphy are legendary in these parts…

Alias Smith and Jones-my favorite T.V western series, based off the success of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The train, the depot, and the tracks- no longer exist.

No studio can still provide a Wagon Train like Universal can.

Denver Street- No longer rentable – this street has been removed.

This area often gets rented out since traveling to Europe gets expensive, Set dressing, cars, and signs can all be rented here. You supply the actors, we can rent you the costumes. Your one stop film shop.

Rome used to be available for rent. Large Parties took place here with top chefs Since removed for multiple Stage’s with A.I capabilities.

This fountain is still available for rent- used in our Monster Movie History in this-Court of Miracles

The Hump on Quasimodo is a prop. Bud Westmore and Edith Head can make a a new man, an old man or just….A frightening monster.

Spooky-is our middle name…

Edith Head going over outfits as Bud Westmore prepare this Black Lagoon Creature.

Be careful with the cup holders, they really grab hold.

Anything you need-we have…

*Yes, we have thousands of paintings-“Tonight’s tale steps out of the painting and take place here…at Universal.*“

State of the art-Post Production.

There is not one picture in this brochure that I haven’t worked on, in, or around including these dubbing stages and Foley rooms. I worked on the wall lighting and floor monuments “power” in this stage located by Stage 12.

***This is not an ice rink – it is part of Universal’s newest stages…***

The only thing lacking is -The History.

Welcome to my former haunting grounds…

Universal Studios is cut into divisions, facilities, production, first responders, tours, operations and every technical department you can think off, We work like a well oiled machine involving several moving parts. No job is too big or to small. Founded as Universal Pictures by Carl Lemmele, We would later be M.C.A -Music Corporation of America. Our T.V Division was titled Revue Studios and movie mogul Lew Wasserman was our leader and resided on the Top Floor of the infamous -Black Tower.

The stories from this lot are often handed down from the generations of employees that worked here and lived them. Everyone has memories of actors, films, shows, and just everyday going -ons that take place inside this city. A top employer, the surrounding city of North Hollywood and Burbank were developed around our city affectionately know as Universal City.

Tours started in 1964 and continue today, I was part of that for almost 5 years before taking on an apprenticeship and 4 years later becoming all things electric is a workplace that craves power. You can never have enough, especially in summertime when the demand is crucial. Shows call non stop for more power needs on hundred degree days especially. Production power from shooting stations dating back to the 1920’s and 1930’s cannot keep up with today’s demands and mobile power is often required. Generators fill the bill when our old system gets taxed.

Westinghouse Mobile Generators were strategically position in every town on the backlot to provide current. D.C -Direct current is produced. A.C- Alternating-Current is augmented with our old D.C to fill amperage needs that shows require. Advances in lighting no longer require D.C as the industry modernized.

I did not realize I was working in an environment that would no longer keep on -keeping on!

I was in the old days, the tail end of movie making. We had everything you could need. A mill to build any set-interior or exterior. A metal shop, of course electric, plumbing, transportation, a fire department -Squad 51- named from Emergency T.V series, is tour fire department.

Located on the lot, this department oversees pyro effects and the permits have to be pulled for burning or exploding scenes period. One tiny flaming ember can light this wooden backlot up like Gone with the Wind. I lived two of the biggest fires ever to take place on the lot.

Location scouts contact me on scouts for tech needs on the shows looking to rent our lot. Rentals turn a tidy profit as you can see in the brochure. The one set I always heard from scouts that they wish we had was ‘mini malls.’ They are hard to lock down for location filming- often needing to negotiate and compensate several business’s, where at Universal you just deal with us. Surprisingly, this simple mall type set as never built. Steven Spielberg was consulted as a visionary for our 3rd New York Street, at the time we ere owned by General Electric. He requested a waterfront, harbor set to be built behind New York Street- but the powers to be did not want more studio.

A drift of what future is ahead- real estate development was proposed and a complete backlot tear down was on the plans-widen Barham Blvd for traffic was being evaluated. This was a go- until the Seagrams liquid spirit company bought us. From the Grinch Company General Electric, who didn’t even decorate for Christmas, to an alcohol empire that threw the best ever Christmas parties ever.

The entire backlot was a themed event, snow rides were provided to sled on, horse rides, music, strolling entertainment. Bring 6 guests on top of it. Western Bar -B Q and Whiskey drinks lined the old west. Animals were brought in for children to pet, a Ferris wheel was set up on New York Street.

Seagrams knows how to throw a party, they threw two of these swashbuckling Christmas events before leaving with our Universal Music catalog and disbanding plans to build The Seagrams World Headquarters behind Stage 12. I saw the plans and this studio survived a General Electric alternate ending.

NBC Comcast rescued this studio and designed a plan for all incumbents. A Theme Park, A City Walk, Production Facilities and keeping alive the spirit….somewhat. Negatives happen in big business, removing the Phantom of the Opera- Stage 28 was a mistake, that’s the most prized stage ever built. Certainly we could have made it the tour museum of all things…MONSTERS.

A plan is underway to remove all the original stages used in the %0’s and 60’s T.V series such as Leave it to Beaver, The Munsters, Dragnet, McHale’s Navy, and long running Coach T.V series. The Make Up rooms adjacent to the stages played home to –The Beatles in 1965. The Band was rejected by hotels because of the potential for being overrun, so Lew Wasserman put them up inside this area of the studio.

Epilogue :

Time line fact-Since many moons has passed by since this brochure was handed out to Location Managers in the industry, massive changes have happened and are still underway. Many sets and stages have been removed, new tech stages have been built. More significant stages are on the path of being destroyed, an entire quadrant of our oldest T.V Series-“Revue Studios” in credits.Theme park expansion is what this area will become-The Mario Brothers will replace The Beavers, The Munsters, McHale’s Navy, Dragnet, etc,etc.

Most recent, the Barn on Western Street, know as 6 Points, Texas, has been demolished. If you ever rode in a Tram, you have driven down these same streets.The Barn, also known as Stage One, was raised. sadly, this landmark existed before this property was owned by Universal Pictures. The centermost backlot set, used on Carl Laemmle’s Box Lunch films. Uncle Carl filmed in the “open air,” allowing visitors onto his sets.

A Grandstand was set up to watch the slow process of movies being made, so included was a box lunch. This is the true origin of Universal Pictures and the legend of Universal Tours in the year- 1909.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood…All this took place!

Written and Lived by….Donnie Norden

Stay Thirsty My Friends

January 19, 2026 Phantom of the Backlot2 Comments

*Watch Football, Eat Well-When you drink*–**DRINK DOS EQUIS**

Jonathan Goldsmith arrives on set to meet his costar…

This Mule has an extreme toothache

Leave it to …The Most Incredible Man

With his pliers safe and ready for action- he must now sedate this ass.

“He’s Got Me Hypnotized” as the ass relinquishes it’s fear

I have just met…The Most Interesting Man in the World

Anyone say…Dos Equis

Right before this Most Interesting Man was launched into space, he visited Universal Studios backlot to extract a tooth from 4 legged patient. Swiftly, this busy man passes through wardrobe and make-up and visits our tiny European Street that can easily double for Spain. His costar stands patiently, often showing his large yellowish teeth.

As the thirsty dentist arrives on set, he quickly surmises a fix. Having the mule focus on his pocket watch, this Most Interesting Man is able to get the mule to…OPEN WIDE!

Faster than any Dental Service ever performed on me, this Showbiz Donkey plays his part well and the only thing left to say is-“I don’t always drink beer but when I do, I prefer Dos Equis”

Welcome back to Planet Earth, just in time for …KICKOFF!

Written and Lived by…Donnie Norden

For a nominal fee…

April 17, 2025 Phantom of the Backlot2 Comments

What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?

Stay out the hot sun and long lines and enjoy the comfort of favorite seat while operate one these tourist people movers.

This was a fun stage of my life

The Good, Bad , and Ugly

Of tourism.

Excitement, misery, Hollywood behind the scenes in the 80’s

We experience Knight Rider, The A Team , Miami Vice, Smokey and the Bandit.

Not all your guides get “satisfaction “

Some do – just ask Jack Wagner

The role model guides look up too

The Glamour Tram

Subscribe ….

All Aboard !

“The Stuff that Dreams are Made Of”-1924

February 3, 2025 Phantom of the Backlot2 Comments

Screenland turned 100 years old this year…

THOS. H. INCE launched the film making machine way back when Culver City just incorporated itself as a city. Sherman Place- just outside the studios East Border-would soon become Ince Blvd.

One afternoon, we were coming home in the family station wagon. Batman was filming out front on the porch of this administration building. Batwoman on her purple bat looking motorbike was assisting the two male capped crusaders against Catwoman “Eartha Kitt” and Joker”Caesar Romero”

This is exactly what I saw that afternoon. I was in dad’s pool cleaning station wagon with a leaf collector pole sticking out the back window. I hung out the side car window, like a puppy dog ready to jump!

Notice the angle of the two biggest stages. They are facing towards the sunrise. Windows line the upper portion for maximum sunlight penetration. The design was simply to maximize sunlight illumination inside as the sun traverses east to west...Interestingly, these stages were moved to conform to the neighborhood sprouting up alongside.No longer in need of chasing sun light.

Inside stage with natural sunlight peering through upper glass windows. Artificial lighting from electrical distress creates intense heat on stage, depending on amount and size of equipment. Air Conditioning must be factored into stage design, to keep actors make up from running. Interestingly, an ice company was directly across from the main gate, large blocks of ice helped cool down interiors. Ice picks were found stored inside Marion Davies make up trailer…Ice was King!

Top left corner-Lucerne/ Higuera intersect out front a home that once was part of the studio Ince built. Marion Davies was to be the first occupant to use this area connected to all utilities. They include power, sewer, and water. History that followed links King Kong in 1933, followed by Gone With the Wind. In the 60’s – Batman –Adam West was seen frequenting this area....I once used Adam West as an alias. A security guard stopped me and some friends visiting the set of Al Capone. Bruce Lee had already been taken or written down by another kid. This slip of alias’s was handed to Roger Corman-who stared puzzlingly at Mr. Security., while reading our fib list He said “they’re fine- leave them be.”– A hilarious backlot memory!

1924- A Man and his dream…Thomas Ince

Thomas Ince built this iconic Colonnade prior to building another studio just down the road a bit.

A very special sidewalk I perused down daily on my way to St. Augustine School.

This section of then Triangle Studio existed before MGM took control. This was largely thanks to the wealth of Marcus Lowe. It is identical to the stages Thomas Ince built at his other lot. They are built to follow the sun’s rays-illuminating all things inside. Stages align with the sun like a giant magnet.

Before Variety was launched in 1933-this was the movie insider magazine.

Lots of stuff happened here in 1924, forever shaping Hollywood.

In 1924– A Movie Star Compound on Lucerne was completed. The plan was Cosmopolitan Pictures and founder Randolph Hearst was to merge companies with Thomas Ince. One man had endless money and stories for scripts. The other man had filmmaking know-how and the facilities to do so. An example of Rented facilities…

Marion Davies and her famous first make -up trailer

In 1924–there was a Koi pond with a statue from antiquity located where I stand.

Inside this room – legendary mirrors reflect push button fancy switches…

Early 20’s luxury…A place to chill out as tedious make up is applied…

A camera was used in King Kong for make-up continuity. A massager that still works from 1921 was Marion Davies‘ tool of choice during long make-up processes in the chair.

This make up room and connecting compound, Anneberg Beach House and San Simeon were designed by this intellectual artist-Julia Morgan.

A statue dating back to Randolph Hearst and his vision for this Triangle property.

Then suddenly- on a yacht cruise announcing the merger of Ince/ Cosmopolitan, something went drastically wrong.

Best laid plans no more-alternate endings and mysteries happen in Hollywood. Enter Cecil B. DeMille to take over the landscape.

DeMille, in his fancy boots took control of the facility built by Mr. Ince

Across the way from The Ince Studio-The Culver Hotel woulds be added to this Main Street…also in 1924

The Hotel that started it all…Co built by Harry Culver and Charlie Chaplin, later sold to John Wayne.A corner where film history was continually made.

Down the street at MGM, another Hollywood Legend moved over from Paramount Studios. He forever put forth ingenuity and creativity into some of the most complex scenes ever put to film. The man all the stars looked up to- Mr. Arnold Gillespie. He had a St. Bernard named Joppa, a street name on the backlot. He was part owner of The Los Angeles Dons football club in 1946

Don’t laugh this off you- Hollywood types! Other owners besides Arnold included Louis B. Mayer, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and Don Ameche. Before the Rams ever played a game in the Coliseum – The Dons owned Los Angeles. MGM owned The Dons. Bet ya never heard that on the tour!

This Wonderland was my backyard, The red lines are me” running” from security, much more red would later be added. Special effects had dungeons in strategic secluded places on the backlot. None more haunted than the Snow Room, located backside the Grand Central Station. It’s the type of place you would dare for another kid to go inside. Of course, lights off and be alone in this dark, musty corridor. Snow is everywhere you turn, powdered snow, plastic flake snow, and plaster molded snow…pipe tobacco seemed always present…”I dare you to go in, double dare ya!!!”

Baldwin Hills Oil Production beyond tanks/train. Comrade X -1940

Oil production just beyond the old MGM Lot 3 fences in 2024. This is located exactly where the black and white oilfield derricks are, these towers stared right into the backlot. Normally an extremely quiet area when Combat wasn’t filming…Seriously. Nature hidden away at it’s best. Often the only sounds were the back and forth hissing and hawing of a pumping well. A scent of sulphur and oil accompanied these sounds. Yes- I touch everything…

The film that started it all at MGM

Location-Italy– Before air-you set sail to this destination.

Arnold Gillespie-left, and the Neri Shop Forman-making sure all is -Sea Worthy-aboard these galleys.

The galleys are being towed out to sea by the lead tug boat. Unexpected challenges and delays infuriated Louis B. Mayer, who after a visit to Italy then and there decided this film was to be completed in Culver City.

Just off La Cienega Boulevard-is where the Roman chariot race was immortalized… Film making at its best!

Massala’s winged helmet, worn by Francis X. Bushman, was salvaged at the MGM Auction by Debbie Reynolds. Right, 2 Technicolor Trailer Frames.

Ben Hur nearly bankrupted the studio. However, it went on to be MGM’s highest-grossing box office hit. It pulled in 9 million dollars. This figure was unsurpassed for the next 25 years. This film established MGM into the top tier of movie studios. A force to be reckoned with.

My slice of the Golden Years…

Another fine collectible found inside this ancient trailer dating back to this time is Spanky McFarland of Little Rascals fame. This light dates back to that series that filmed originally at near by Hal Roach Studios. Some of the spirits that occupy this triangular plot of land. Everything inside this room turned on as if–Magically “Welcoming me”

Culver City 1924-We begin…

Movie studios begin sprouting up everywhere. Hal Roach started with his Little Rascals. Thomas Ince established his shiny new play land. Just down the street, MGM set sail in year one. What a time to be alive…

“There’s oil in them there hills” At the same time, Standard Oil struck gold in the hills surrounding these studios. A man named Howard Hughes bought property not destined to have oil derricks drilling into the depths. Entrepreneurs from various backgrounds establish their presence all over this perfectly landscaped city.

These hills framed the studios backlots while filling up drum after drum, tank after tank of crude oil. Black Gold competes with shiny –Glittering Gold, inside studio fences. Pioneer Howard Hughes was the most ambitious of all, a master of adventure, a brilliant engineer, his specialty –Aviation. Howard owned the highest peek in Culver City, Hughes Tool Company signs dotted the upper hill sides. All entities fit along side each other – with all being extremely successful, but not without hardships.

From MGM Lot 3, you could see the derricks standing tall on the Baldwin Hills side of the chain link. Oil did better than film early on and has long outlasted backlot film making.

Doing this stuff was not easy; otherwise, anyone could have done it. These pioneers laid the groundwork. Abundant resources were available for visionaries at that time. The saying goes-“You have to see it to be it!”

Speaking of which…

I conclude with an exciting finish. This long awaited book is being cleared to land. Maureen, Mike, and I have worked very hard. We have been diligent in finishing the trespassing stories we lived in the 1970’s. Included will be a boat load of my personal pictures including the tear down of MGM Lot 2. This is not a destruction book, it is an adventure book. We start with the British Invasion of MGM in 1977. Join Peter Frampton and The Bee Gees aboard this hot air balloon. Yes- these stars are inside that basket hovering above MGM. Many Rock Star guest appearances included. Even Sylvester Stallion is involved. Director “Sly” selects me for a part in a film at Universal titled Paradise Alley. I take you on Stage 12 with me, the start of a 48 hour straight non-stop studio party.

Coming soon on Amazon

Written and lived by… Donnie Norden

The Outer Limits of MGM Lot 3

January 26, 2025 Phantom of the BacklotLeave a comment

This sensational MGM Lot 3 photo is compliments of Todd Spiegelberg. Todd and David Barns excel at matching pictures of sets on these studio lots. They connect these pictures to the films and T.V shows filmed on these dusty old streets…

“**Please Stand By”**…That was your standard test pattern. It was also the original title for this series that lasted two seasons. The creators feared audiences would change the channel. They thought this was an emergency broadcast system interruption, so the name was scrapped.

“***Leave my TV alone!”***…*Donnie Norden*– 1963

“*Looks like a friendly planet*“…***The Zanti Misfits*** *1963.*

“*Look Out Kid*” –***The Zanti Misfits***…*Terrorizing TVs everywhere.*

***Vasquez Rocks.***..A very popular location. I have filmed there, Sliders-TV series. Wind Machines…blowing dust and tumbleweeds.

“*Another film company rolling in here again… I’m sick of terrorizing these idiots!”*

*MGM Lot 3 and Vasquez Rocks blend together.* *MGM has Baldwin Hills as a western backdrop.*

“*I think I got bit”…”I’ll get help if I don’t die first*“

**MGM Lot 3-** Two other sci-fi series film back here. **The Twilight Zone** and **One Step Beyond.** All three, including **My Favorite Martian** used this very street. One of two church steeples on Europe Street can be seen sprouting behind the western corner. Combat filmed this lot regularly in 1963.

The simple two window, one door set right of the driving M.P. appeared in the Dust episode of the Twilight Zone. In that episode, a man gets saved from a gallows pole by some Magic Dust. This building was the jail where the man was incarcerated.

*This picture of mine is same angle as screen grab. Notice The Mutiny on the Bounty masts are sticking up above the Western Street- far end.*

*Zanti set two years prior- The Twilight Zone episode “DUST”*

*Wait till the Zantis get a hold of you!*

*The MGM grip department mounted* *this capsule on the roof. A studio union operated spacecraft.*

*This kind of stuff ends up in our property storage on the backlot. And possibly, it will land at my house to complete its mission. Two kids could easily carry this to my MGM version of Mission* *contro*l.

*These Zantis are available for purchase on-line…duplicates of course.* *Technically,* “***Zantis are trespassers!”***

“*Where’s MGM security when you need them?”..*.

“*Air Police- MGM Police- everybody open fire!”*

“*I got some grenades off the Combat set”…*

*Zantis, Germans*, this lot has ammo everywhere…This is where- **War is filmed.**

*The camera twists in the wind as the TV tries to regain* *control through its roof antenna.* *Moving the antenna doesn’t fix this problem*, *it’s just magic.*

These trains block the view into the lot, we work this fence line. An irrigation drain is on the public side of a chain link fence. We run up and down it to view into the lot. We look in between the wheels. The **Horse Soldiers** is a film starring John Wayne. John Ford directed it. The movie had one of the best battles ever staged out of these trains.

This is a hiding spot, but MGM was well aware of it. Salt Rock guns shoot at you here as you attempt to exit. The irrigation run -off trench worked like a WW 1 trench. Many Culver Residents met their fate in this gully that still occupies and exits along what is now Raintree condos. This area was like Gettysburg. If you’re going to get shot, it’s probably in this location.

*That’s a real good name for this town…*

This is my MGM Art Department photo of this street in this story.I am fortunate to have been given my own private stash of MGM backlot pictures from Tony Vallone, he headed the Department. He was hired by MGM in 1938. He was a kid in the Real Boystown when MGM went on location to film in Nebraska. Over the decade of the 70’s, my backlot notoriety spread through the studio as I became…**The Phantom.** I spent an entire afternoon going through cabinet after cabinet of MGM stills. I was handed an envelopes and told “take what you wish!

I felt like Burgess Meredith in “Time Enough at Last.” I met this Penguin at MGM on the film “Rocky.” He was hanging out outside a stage. I went up to him. I told him how much I love his Twilight Zone episodes. “Mr Dingle” I call him…

This irrigation catch basin trench still exists along the southern border of Raintree. It was there back when MGM was. This was a very strategic trench; we could see clearly into Lot 3. Trains partially blocked our views down the Western Streets. Security chases often conclude here. You’re successful if you escape without a buttocks full of salt rock. This was like a trench from W.W1. Its purpose was to protect MGM, now Raintree, from storm runoff water. Three other catch basins on the oil field side provided additional protection. The runoff cascades down these hills toward the old backlot. There have been times where this backlot flooded. But we had canoes and several different watercrafts to overcome flooding.

*Lot 3 looking west-* *Raintree Condos now surround a smaller but original lake.*

This picture from an oil derrick captures Lot 3, Raintree in a similar current angle today. The field in the foreground is currently a Pumpkin Patch for kids… Mr. Bones will greet you here. The eucalyptus trees are original to MGM and that straight line is the Eastern MGM Lot 3 boundary. The best place to sneak in at. There is usually no one around these parts and when you’re inside the studio, the jungle is your friend. Some rusted old fence posts with barb wire still stand, representing MGM. Chain link fences were used facing hills, so camera doesn’t pick up a wooden fence. Those were used on Jefferson and Overland Blvd. Half the lot had green wood fences with- No Trespassing Signs, Forbidden by Law, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer attached everywhere.

**Charles Bronson** *close up Death Wish 4. Plexiglas camera protection*…**shots fired!**

**Lee Marvin, Charles Bronson, and Telly Savalas** appeared in the Twilight Zone before making this film.

*This pointed ear concept developed for* *David McCallum would be* *used on Leonard Nimoy as Spock.*

1963- MGM Backlot 3

The Outer Limits filmed a few episodes on the MGM backlots in its two-year run. Joseph Stefano wrote most of the episodes. He just completed work with Alfred Hitchcock. He wrote the screenplay for Psycho. He was this show’s –Rod Serling. Many monsters and props got reused after the show was canceled. Many of the crew ended up on a new series-Star Trek. William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy both appeared in The Outer Limits before liberating outer space.

The process used to make David McCallum’s ears pointed in The Outer Limits would be copied for Spock.

Talent existed everywhere and Cinematographer Conrad Hall photographed 15 episodes. He was the man behind the lens for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in 1969. This series ended abruptly due to a schedule change. it would be located as the lead in for Lawrence Welk. The opposition was Jackie Gleason, my dad’s favorite guy. It was an attractive show for a younger audience, so this change to a mature time zone lead in failed. I watched it. I love this show’s opening television take over. It seemed real. You can tell by my kid picture. This TV is for watching Combat, back off Space Men.

My last post was located on the Universal Backlot, featuring The Birds, in 1963. 21 miles away, these Zanti creatures were terrorizing MGM, by way of The Vasquez Rocks. MGM Lot 3 fits the landscape needed to match up those real rocks with sets built at MGM. Lot 3 is the most rustic backlot ever built.

A 67-acre playground of bombed out European Villages, Western Towns… complete with blowing tumbleweeds, jungles with canoes, tall ships and even a paddleboat. Half-tracks, tanks, jeeps, trains and planes are parked everywhere. All these sets have a 1400-acre oil field directly behind it.

The Baldwin Hills are the backlot extension very few are aware of. But you have seen them. Laurel and Hardy and The Little Rascals used dirt roads. These roads can easily get you lost. They are located right behind MGM Lot 3. I worked on Beverly Hills Cop 2 in the hills overlooking these sets. We were firing bazookas; “Dent Industries” was an fictitious oil company. I recently saw an episode of the Highway Patrol. It starred Broderick Crawford himself in 1955. He was pursuing oil larceny suspects. They were robbing payroll with a Bazooka of all things. If you live long enough, everything happens twice. Bazooka attacks, 30 years apart. I also met Charles Bronson up here, overlooking this studio, on Deathwish 4.

We chatted about the Twilight Zone episode titled- TWO. He starred with Elizabeth Montgomery in that classic on MGM Lot 3. We were pointing sets out, where they stood, from atop these hills. Then we talked –The Dirty Dozen. The famous climax on a backlot located in England. Yep, “The Chateau” was on a backlot across the ocean at MGM’s British Studio. Lee Marvin, Charles Bronson and John Cassavetes fought for their lives as the Chateau goes up in flames. This show happens to be my all-time favorite movie along with Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. My 3rd favorite is Kelly’s Heroes.

So, these hills are extensions of the backlot, and Howard Hughes owned a hilltop overlooking Desilu. Howard was going to build a mansion up on the top. It would overlook Los Angeles and the distant Hollywoodland sign in the Hollywood Hills. However, something happened in 1924. Richfield/Standard Oil discovered oil reserves up here. An oil boom sprouted wells surrounding this entire area. Howard sold the property to Charles Wright. He stated, “The last thing I want to see is oil wells out my living room.” Wrightcrest became a Culver City Street. Charlie built himself a mansion where Howard had planned to build one. This change came after crude was discovered.

Rance McGrew and Mr. Garrity and the Graves have the hills off in background in those classic Twilight Zone episodes. Combat avoided camera angles that would connect to these hills.

What’s cool was this lot was a wildlife area due to its location. Skunks, possums, raccoons-like the one that took out hunting dog- Rip and Hyder Simpson. This is-that place, The Hunt was done here. Rod Serling would walk these trails developing concepts and plots. I daydream here too.

Owls, hawks, crows, and doves combine aviation forces here. Snakes, squirrels and gophers complete this fun backlot. Horse stables still exist up in these hills. When Combat filmed, birds took flight and rodents took cover on the safer oil field side. Filming turned into escape time for these critters who fled this studio home when Combat yelled “ACTION”

When the lot was quiet, you could hear the churning oil wells. MGM Lot 3 was the best backlot in history. The legend of Arnold Gillespie and his MGM ocean still resonates back here in this wilderness area.

Lastly, The Zanti Misfits was ranked #98th on TV Guide’s 100 Greatest Episodes of all-time.

That’s today’s story, everywhere I go –I kick up movie dust

Good news…I have regained control of my TV- just in time to watch some quality reruns!

Written and lived by…Donnie Norden

The Cruise-Snap shot- 1924

January 18, 2025 Phantom of the BacklotLeave a comment

Yes, this property with the oldest Make-up trailer in existence is more than it seems nearly 100 years later. One doesn’t need to look to closely to visually see clues linking this parcel to a green past. Fact is- everything is green. Every door on the property has green on it somewhere. That includes Marion’s portable room. While removing some handles inside, the color green appeared as a base color.

Green happens to be the color Paramount/RKO. It’s my believe that this Make-up trailer was built at Paramount Studios in the silent film days. Do to the lack of distribution connections to theaters, it was a pivotal transition period. To go big, you need theaters. MGM’s rapid rise was do to the Loew’s theater chains.

Universal was starting its monster movie tradition at the time. They began with The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Phantom of the Opera. Lon Chaney was the Marion Davies of monster movies. Carl Laemmle was not a big player in Hollywood’s early years. However, his films have stood up to the test of time. The world, as uncle Carl found out, loves to be scared.

Hollywoodland was a chess board. Studios sprouted up from Lankershim Blvd in Hollywood to Washington Blvd in Culver City. They appeared in various locations in between. Paramount studios lies in the center of Hollywood. It is positioned between the Culver City lots and the San Fernando valley movie facilities. These facilities include Warner Brothers and Columbia.

Adolph Zukor and Jesse Laskey joined forces formed Famous Players Film Company in 1916. The deal resulted in the incorporation of eight film production companies making up this newly formed company. The results would be one of the most successful silent film companies in it’s era.

Cosmopolitan Pictures, Randolph Hearst’s company, was headquartered in New York City, from 1918, to 1923. It’s then, he moved his Silent Motion Picture company to the west coast. Basically, he is following in the footsteps of Thomas Ince, who followed the sunset west just a few years before. Thomas Ince started his left coast facility on the beach, Inceville Studios was born. The studio with lighthouse, most have simple water towers…

But difficulties with weather do to gray skies and wind blowing sand made Mr. Ince think twice about his location. Soon after, he relocated his studio to what is now Sony. It was previously known as MGM and, before that, Triangle Studios. Thomas Ince’s friendship with city founder Harry Culver grew stronger. As a result, Thomas Ince left the Triangle Colonnade. He built another studio just a couple blocks away.

The Plantation Building, styled after George Washington’s Mt. Vernon estate, would become the Ince facility and location this man dreamed of. But the cost of such a first class facility reached deeper into Mr. Ince’s pockets that he had change for.

Enter; Randolph Hearst

Both entrepreneur’s having moved west when the studio systems were getting off the ground, had leverage. Ince is Swiss army knife of all things in making films. Randolph Hearst has content. His Cosmopolitan stories are all potential- movies to be. They have huge readership, so films based of these stories have a huge publicity advantage. Plus, he had a leading lady he promoted named Marion Davies. Randolph was a one star film producer, all things Marion… his true love!

Feb 12, 1924- it is around this time in 1924 that puzzle pieces were being set up. Nowhere is Paramount part of the contract. A move was on from Paramount to Culver City and Ince and Hearst were planning out the next moves. MGM was not the plan.

*Charlie Chaplin and Marion Davies were tied at the hip…*

Randolph and Marion’s trip west started off on the Paramount lot. It’s here that it’s my belief this mobile 100 year old dressing room was built. Green paint, found under some of the handles- is the big clue. The Make-up trailer is built with incredible craftsmanship. The arch door entrance and the mirrors built into the walls behind the entrance are proof to this day. Even the trailer wheels are cleverly hidden in the walls. You do not see the 1915 era tires when inside this once carpeted lavish trailer. A trailer pulled by –horses.

In my research of this property in Culver City where this trailer has ended up, I keep finding more connections. They link to a famous and somewhat romantic time in history. This horse drawn trailer is located just beyond a Koi pond. A statue from antiquity stands in the center of the pond. A house, completed in 1924 provides shelter for the star who this was set up for. The living room looks out into this backyard compound. The kitchen window looks out into the Ince backlot. In later years, this area adjacent to this compound was where Stalag 13 would be situated.

*Statue from antiquity, peers inside this Make-up trailer*, *from a dried up Koi Pond.*

My belief is this was the center of what was to be a Cosmopolitan Pictures, Ince Productions merged corporation. The foundation for this merger was set before the ill-fated cruise aboard the Hearst yacht. Unfortunately, something went terribly wrong. If Mr. Ince had survived that voyage on the night of November 19, 1924, Hollywood’s history would be different. This corner would have become the Cosmopolitan section of this merger. Ince has his corporate office in the Plantation Building.

Had this cruise gone as planned, the Hearst newspapers would be touting this company merger. It was all set up. There would be no MGM involvement. We wouldn’t need to deal with Louie B Mayer’s dictatorship. Just two producers have agendas that can work together, or so I believe. Hearst built a famous 19-room bungalow for Marion at MGM. This happened after the failed merger. It would have been built right behind this compound. It is actually where you would build it due to utilities connections and sewer tie-ins. The backlot or ranch only had one bathroom for the entire lot. It was located along Higueria street because that was the utility tie-in for the backlot.

Hal Roach Studios is a short walk as is the Ince main lot. Even MGM is a bike ride distance away. This was being set up as the Cosmopolitan Center of the Culver City Film universe. It’s ironically Triangle shaped, this parcel of land time forgot.

This cruise involved Marion Davies, Thomas Ince, Randolph Hearst, and Charlie Chaplain. If it had returned to shore without incident, this was the new big player. But since details of what happened differ on board, that we will never know.

Imagining the stories these mirrors can tell create *goose bumps.*

It’s said, Thomas Ince most likely died of indigestion. A combination of salted almonds and alcohol. Marion Davies would claim that as his cause of death. It was completely accidental. A clue to verify indigestion was found inside the make-up trailer itself.

*Page’s Silver Mints*…***aid digestion.***

*Digestion mints were popular in this ancient trailer that also sports bottles of imported Italian wine. These tins were inside on shelves.*

*This make-up room probably knows everything, imagine the discussions in front of these mirrors the days following Mr Ince’s death* *and the rumors of scandal that* *reverberated through Hollywoodland.*

But what I do know is this, a brand new house in 1924 still exists. On this probably soon to be developed property lies a very mysterious Koi Pond. Original to the house, exquisite tiles, large Koi, and statue, from probably Rome. A Make-up room is accessible next to it. A house with mysterious items is covered in some cases with green paint, even if only lightly.

But for the compound being green, that will be in my story going ahead. I am still involved with this area actively. I want to make sure we don’t lose items that have been overlooked for decades. This is private property and well protected, don’t get any ideas.

It is my conclusion that this yard is a snapshot in 1924 history. This area is more proof that Ince/Cosmopolitan was going to be a major player and competitor to MGM. Because of Ince’s death, MGM was plan B.

Proof of my theory is- all these things still exist in this infamous time line. I reconnected with this item, which I first came in contact with in 1972. I had to cut the lock off. Once the door opened, the spirits that saw all this history were awoken. They know what indeed was going on here. These spirits have now become part of my life. The mirrors in this room have seen more history than just these legends that brought this corner together.

This is the ultimate alternate ending to what was and what was suppose to be…

If there was ever a more appropriate title...

I send out this invite:

I would give anything to have a conversation with someone. This person should have been inside here while working on a film or TV series. This trailer was still in use for Hogan’s Heroes. Lucie Arnez would be a person of interest. Her father installed the modern intercom/stereo system. It was custom built by the Panatron Corporation. I have that confirmed by the Panatron company itself.

Desilu would be the last film connection. After that, this trailer disguised itself as a garden shed for the next 50 years.

***Marion’s trailer*** was in use before and after this event, imagine the stories it’s heard from those involved. It’s too bad this section of Hollywoodland was forgotten when this film was produced. **Marion’s Make-up room** *should have been used,* if you like **realism**… anyways.

“*Bon voyage everybody.*..when we return, we will be **Ince/Cosmopolitan Pictures**“

**Front page news**…*The Hearst Newspaper had this story on 3rd page, adding fuel to the speculation…*

Take a deeper dive on – Phantomofthebacklots –You Tube

Written and lived by Donnie Norden…

The Evolution of the MGM Records Label.

December 21, 2024 Phantom of the Backlot1 Comment

Music tames the Savage Beast. This Metro Goldwyn Mayer label was supreme. Let’s play a stack of some 45’s today …shall we?

MGM Records began in 1946 –when the King of Beasts started spinnings his head in circles…

The “other” MGM King. Of all the artists you would expect on the MGM Label, Elvis Presley was not one of them. In 1954, he signed his first contract with Sun Records.The next year, RCA Records took on his record contract.

This moment was connected to the MGM label, Apple would become The Beatles label.

2013- The British Invasion Flag flies above Sony, Stages 27/29, formerly MGM Studios.

Take a taste of this. Turn up your Marantz Stereo and light the living room up in colorful patterns with a sound reacting Light Organ… if your hip!

Artists signed aboard include…

Louie Armstrong, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Mickey Rooney, and Tony Bennett graced the stage. Leslie Caron, Richard Chamberlain, and Maurice Chevalier added to the charm. The Cowsills, Bing Crosby, and Jimmy Durante entertained the masses. Billy Eckstien, 5 Man Electrical Band, and Eydie Gorme mesmerized the audience. George Hamilton, Jack Jones, and Hugh Masekela captivated listeners. Donnie Osmond, Mel Torme, and Eric Burdon and War thrilled fans. Hank Williams, Tony Sheridan and The Beatles—also known as “Beat Brothers”—and Three Dog Night were unforgettable. This part of the studio specialized in sounds and soundtracks. Over time, the sounds faded away. They disappeared like the studio itself.

Three Dog Night, an All -Time Favorite of mine, seen here in 1972, on float in the Rose Parade.

Put -some “Whiskey in Your Water” and continue…

Never too late to cherish an iconic MGM experience, A studio most famous for legendary musicals…Many large bands continued on, under RSO Records, Robert Stigwood’s label. The Bee Gees, Peter Frampton, Earth, Wind and Fire, Billy Preston etc, performed on the MGM backlot in 1977. That year became my own “Rocker” on the set of SGT. Pepper.

This label was originally developed for releasing MGM Soundtracks from MGM Films. It quickly evolved to include several musical genres. Nevertheless, it maintained an accent towards Country Western. MGM’s western collection is interesting because it includes western films, trains, and carriages. There are also horses, western streets, and legendary musicians influenced by country artists.

MGM created the old west right here in Culver City. They shuffled in Singing Cowboys. They developed and delivered music for this studio to market.

This MGM label took off as a major player. Its competitors in the early 50’s were Columbia, RCA, Decca, Capital, and Mercury. MGM manufactured their cataloged at the studio more legendary for films. the only label besides Columbia that are dual film/records. But MGM forever will be-King of Beasts!

In the mid seventies, I was found at this studio on a daily basis. I was part of this Rock and Roll landscape. Polygram took over this label as MGM divested all its assets. The 1970 MGM auction was the beginning of the end of MGM as we knew it.

The 50’s and 60’s

Connie Francis, Hank Williams and Conway Twitty led the way for record sells. 45’s turned into ten inch 33-1/3. That brought on album covers, and artwork, instead of paper envelopes with vinyl wrapped inside. In 1961, MGM bought Norman Granz’ Verve record label and MGM became-A rock label. The Righteous Brothers, The Velvet Underground, and The Mothers of Invention.

These artists were not happy with MGM’s censorship, and often released content without artist approvals. Welcome to the world of MGM labels and holding stables. Actors and films came before musicians and tunes. Studio higher ups gave them all a take it or leave it response. Censorship ruled supreme as Rock Music was taking off. In the mid 60’s, MGM distributed a new Kama Sutra label, The Lovin’ Spoonful signed on. Acid Rock competed against Vietnam protests. Tough times make for great music, L.S.D was a music gateway. MGM was buying artists from other labels to hedge the future. This label evolved from singing cowboys to singing hippies!

MGM bought in the the colorful decade to come by signing Eric Burden and The Animals. But profits plunged. MGM Records lost 18 million dollars to close out the 1960s. Records in music stores were unsold.

The 70’s–I became a member of that culture…

Nothing funner than L.S.D on the MGM backlot while listening to Acid Rock, just sayin!

MGM was busy auctioning off their soul right after Woodstock changed the music world forever in 1969. One entity was headed upwards while the other was sinking below the surface. MGM executive Mike Curb, a future Lt. Governor of California, fired 18 groups who publicized …the use of drugs!

“I couldn’t be fired” since I was just a Trespasser with his own personal…Hole in the Fence. I counter cultured and embraced escapism- literally and figuratively. I was a rebel with a cause who did not want to end up in Vietnam. President Nixon agreed and praised Mr. Curb. for his unrelenting attitude against drugs. Drugs became a huge item going ahead in Hollywood. Stars were using drugs. Cocaine use was an issue at every studio. When I began my long career at Universal, several major stars would take “powdered lunches.” Dirty stories for another time. Alcohol and cigarettes were no longer enough.

My hero, WW2, veteran, Lee Marvin. The leader of The Dirty Dozen. In the 80’s, “Maggot” Telly Savalas could be found at Universal. He was often in a limo, at Telly’s Bar at the Sheraton Universal. A big mirror was inside, driven around the property. Prefabbed “white lines” were also inside. The studio that promoted drug films, such as Cheech and Chong, hosted a wrap party on Stage 4. It was a legendary drug fest. Drug use escalated effecting in someway almost every star we had on the lot!

As I was experiencing MGM first hand in the early 70’s, MGM switched to “bubblegum” acts. Sammy Davis Jr, Petula Clark, and The Osmonds. These successful performers helped stabilize MGM financially.

In 1972, a conglomerate of Dutch /German Polydor and and Phonogram was buying into the U.S market. Polyvgram was now the MGM record label. The merger failed and was reduced to going forward with soundtracks from MGM films.

The 80’s

After the merger of Metro, Goldwyn, Mayer Inc. and United Artists in 1982, the label discontinued all together. For me, I became employed at MGM. My dreams came true” and I worked for the last MGM entity still using the MGM logo. MGM Film laboratories was the final MGM department identified as MGM.

My job took me all over MGM Lot 1, Job description” Reel Router.” The processing of film is very involved, from waxing to reduce projector noise, editing of course, and color corrections. Cannery Row was one of our films, starring Nick Nolte, Deborah Winger, and John Huston. Based off a John Steinbeck novel. Almost entirely shot with clever Art Direction using MGM’s main lot. the only lot still standing.

In 1972, Raquel kicked ass dressed like this, in 1982 she” kicked ya and flipped ya.” She won a match race that paid her –extremely well…

I wanna tag team with her…I’m a great skater! I watched Roller Derby, L.A Thunderbird’s, The Olympic Auditorium. Announcer, the legendary Dick Lane.

During the making of Cannery Row, a lawsuit occurred involving the original casted star and MGM. Additional legal entanglements came under scrutiny, focusing on stolen MGM raw stock film. It was being hijacked and resold to Hollywood film labs. The F.B.I arrested the perpetrator “on set.”

Meanwhile back in the MGM lab, I walked in on a pile of cocaine in the “film timers” studio. The color correction involved magenta, cyan, and all things color. It took place in a state of the art post production facility. Expensive consoles corrected the 35 millimeter prints based off the timers recommendations. A huge movie screen completes the interior of this facility. Next to a basket of fruit and tasty munchies was a pile of “blow.”

Cocaine became as prevalent at “craft service” as snacks themselves. no one hid it, you were welcomed by it. An MGM security guard named George Barner was hired to catch me a decade ago. He ran a sting operation to bust employees. He used a famous Hollywood watering hole across the street, still operating as a bar today, The Backstage.

CHiPs Television– wasn’t safe, either. The star, Tom Reilly, was arrested for drug use and relieved of duty. End off Watch, end of his involvement in that hit series. MGM then started searching star dressing rooms when actors on set. MGM Studios would disappear. It would fade to black. Nonetheless, the Acid trips and drug use would continue. I would experience much more at Universal.

The Who “Long Live Rock” was a song and signal of more to come…

Written and lived by…Donnie Norden

Bongs, Backlots, and Rock & Roll: 1970s Tales…

October 13, 2024December 7, 2024 Phantom of the Backlot8 Comments

The “paraphernalia” used in today’s adventure. Bamboo grows along the studio fence on Van Buren Street. A 10 foot high chain link fence is a less than formidable separation. It stands between my friend’s apartment building, carport, and these iconic stages.

The herbal product imported from Thailand that is easy to come by at Public School. You don’t have to go to Thailand, Primo is the word best describing this very tasty and exotic import. Tastes like flavorful dark, rich coffee when smoked in a Bong. Bold, relaxing, and extremely intoxicating…

We start this story on the Main Lot of Laird Studios. We still call it Desilu, since that’s the name it was for most my childhood. In picture 3, top row, you can see my friend’s apartment building-bottom right of frame…yellowish building.

It is on Van Buren, the property line separates the main lot from his apartment complex. This was a popular destination amongst “stoners” since top quality ‘smoke and hallucinogenics” can be obtained. Like a neighborhood “7-11” minus the Slurpees. Run by long haired teenage entrepreneurs named David and Steve. They join me and best Pal “Pat Rich” on all that takes place in today’s story.

Before we head to the backlot where Stalag 13 is located, we go up into the ancient dressing rooms. These rooms overlook Van Buren Street. Bruce Lee lived in a Duplex right below this- no longer existing stage. Amazon Studios casualties include many legendary stages. That’s not -progress.

My hero- not Batman anymore-Catwoman

Here is the rooftop of the soundstage in we are exploring today in a Batman episode. Dressing rooms built on the exterior of these stages. This is the only lot I have seen with stages that have dressing rooms attached to the top. They are accessed by long stairways. Don Kirshner films his legendary rock and roll video concerts here. Often our neighborhood pals would be used as fillers for audience. I saw Elvin Bishop do a taping of “Fooled around and fell in Love” his hit song.

Under that rooftop-this storage area is discovered ...

This beaten up TV is eerily similar in every way. It looks just like the set I’d sneak on the MGM Backlot to watch Twilight Zone. I also used it to watch Combat episodes. A TV you can run with usually ends up looking like this.

This was backlot entertainment…Sadly this cassette player fell to its death on the MGM backlot in the church steeple in Combat Village. A song was playing by Led Zeppelin-Kashmir. It’s a long fall. The music was heard during the fall, before impact crashing down on cobblestones, 4 stories below. Needless to say- all my portable electronic stuff had really fun lives. Tonight’s recordings feature this recently released comedy album that everyone in school listens to…

We arrive at The 40 Acre backlot for uninhibited “fun and Games.” Just four teenage Stoner Boys. We have a bamboo bong, Ty Stick, matchbooks from a local bar “Sarna’s,” and a Panasonic tape deck. I record songs and albums on cassette tapes for studio parties.

Where comedy and rock music combine- in the Guard Tower at Stalag 13. “Take another hit, of fresh air and California Sunshine” Quick Silver Messenger Service gets this guard tower party started! This is how our brains functioned this day…

These photos were taken by me in the grassy hill right above the tree stump, overlooking the camp in 1974. The rigid pipe is for the sprinkler system. We would turn it on and lay in hammocks we put up on top of the hill overlooking the Stalag. Sadly, I was going in to specifically photo expose this Stalag when before my eyes, it was being removed.

They weren’t tearing down the lot. A show titled The Fortune was about to build a village. The show starred Warren Beatty and Jack Nicholson. They only left the utility shed pictured with a snow painted roof. Foreground in last picture are some rope cots and other props stashed behind this house below us. The camp stood until 1974. That’s when I liberated the stump with help from Pat. When entered for the first time late 1972, the camp was perfectly in tact. A native plant you see in the top 3 photos actually is like sandpaper. Finesse is required at this point. When you cut through it, it can scar you up. What doesn’t around here?

From the Front Lot to the Backlot-we double dip this afternoon and evening…Summer 1973

We start our journey “Dazed and Confused”

Pat and I peddle our bikes to an Apartment Complex built behind Desilu Studios. It is best known to kids for what can “be had” from tenants inside units. Two friends live here-Steve and David. Long hair, very popular hippie types, Public School friends.

David shows us his Bong Business. From Bamboo shoots that separate the Desilu Main lot and his parking complex-Pat and I are impressed by his craftsmanship. Airtight with wax inside for sealing and water-proofing this smoking device. They are known to be the best Bongs in Culver City. I’m equally as interested at the main lot behind this free growing bamboo. The conversation shifts from Bongs to trespassing.

Pat and I are told that these brothers often trespass starting from this high fence blocked by bamboo. They then go up into the ancient dressing rooms built along the backside of these soundstages. They point upwards to stages looking down on us where we stand on delineated-painted parking stalls on blacktop. Since Laird became owner, backlot security, more specifically the “Guard Dogs” no longer exist on the backlot. It’s become a “Teenage-Wasteland” that more often than not is completely uninhabited by adults.

These brothers offer us a tour of the front lot dressing rooms. They assure us it’s almost completely safe. They also share some exploits from their life along this fenced property. These two brothers have more history trespassing this front lot than anyone else I know. We shy away from front lot trespassing. The consequences are severe, like a visit to jail. Also, hiding places are few and far between. But-not wanting to be…”Chickens,” Pat and I accept their invitation with one lone stipulation “we carry no contraband.”

This is advanced trespassing when you sneak around soundstages. No distractions needed-bring your “A game”

We climb the fence using bamboo like Koala Bears. We squeeze in between and step on the chutes, like a ladder built by nature. An easy refreshing climb from a bamboo jungle to a concrete, secured jungle. All paraphernalia is left at their house because lots of things can go wrong here. We hug the interior fence line and reach a stairway. The stairway ascends upward to a long walkway. The walkway is in front of all these rooms I have been looking at for many years. I have never attempted to occupy these rooms.

This is so exciting not knowing what’s inside and the adrenaline is more powerful than any drug at this moment. I choose a random room and turn the ornate glass handle to enter…open sesame.

Inside, we are greeted by a musty smelling vacancy that suffered extreme water damage. A smelly couch with room enough to change costumes and mirrors for make-up to be put on the actors. Tiny bathrooms finish the room off. The last stars to be up here had to be long ago. Wood stuff is rotted and the smell gets to ya. The floor has tiles with black and white patterns. We now see before our very eyes something we have been wondering about. We try other door handles that do not even have locks. We enter several other dressing rooms. These rooms all have their own stories-if they speak.

We go back down one of two stairways up top here. We mosey into what was a soundstage. Now it is a stock unit storage area. Props and walls, every studio has storage like this. There is activity on the lot and we are forced to hide as we hear voices. We are tucked away in an obsolete corner surrounded by set walls kept for storage. A hole in broken drywall allows us to peek inside a mysterious room, but not big enough to fit through. What we see is film cans, tiny thin ones with Lucy stamped on them. We don’t see any door attached to this room. Access is maybe from the front where we would most likely be seen. Well, we got our fill and answered several questions on what we have been looking at for several years. We backtrack back to the fence we entered to now exit to head down Van Buren to the backlot.

March on Starship Troopers…

Now we are soldiered up. We are carrying a bong and a Panasonic tape deck for some backlot partying. We choose Stalag 13 as our destination of choice. I was just here a week ago and I still have a “hickey” on my neck, from Maureen. It’s fading like those joke shop tattoos we buy on Main Street. But, this is real-done by a real hot girl.

As we enter, we pass down Western Street. So far, we are the only folks on this backlot. We slowly walk up Western Street and I push play on my cassette deck. “Cisco Kid” by the band War begins to set the mood. It’s as if this song is written for this street. We pass a saloon as the lyrics “Poncho drinks the Wine” is versed. I’m already high and we haven’t partaken in our session yet.

We arrive at Stalag 13, around the corner from Western Street. In minutes, we are in a guard tower. I was just making out in the guard tower last week with Maureen. Today, its all boys as we situate one boy for each of the four interior walls of this guard tower. Our feet connect center stage like spokes on a wheel. We break out the contraband. Before I turn back on the music and comedy, I casually flip the hair off my neck. This exposes hickey for all to see. Boys will be boys

We talk and spark up, we start with “hot girls” as a topic. Susan Dey of the Partridge Family seems to be a topic that gets beat around the most. Peggy Lipton of the Mod Squad is also often discussed. We all agree Linc has a pretty cool Afro. You don’t see “AFROS” on TV, but you do on city streets.

We too are a Mod Squad…

Just the mentioning of all our female actress’s practically ignites our red covered booklets of Sarna’s matches. My pop brings these home almost daily, from a bar right across from the studio.

The bubbling sound of a “Bong at work” intersects with deep conversation. This conversation is sophisticated, as only 13-year-old stoners can deliver. We cover everything from Pro Football and the undefeated Miami Dolphins to the World Champion Oakland Athletics. We also cover Vietnam, a place none of us want to end up. “Our Thai Stick comes from that region. Soldiers smoke this,” I point out as I suck on my bamboo peace pipe. “It’s called the Golden Triangle” as I burn my finger talking too long. Last week- I was sucking on Maureen’s neck up here. Today, she’s been replaced by a piece of bamboo and a stick of Thai.

Must be explained: The object of taking a bong hit is to consume the entire hit. This includes the herb loaded in the chamber. When this successfully takes place, the bubbling sound turns into a hissing sound. This is usually simultaneously followed by coughing. Then a large smoke plume often appears, and possibly death...just kidding.

As my lungs clear up in this Stalag 13 guard tower, I tell Dave and Steve a bong story. The story involves Pat and took place in my backyard. “I have several cartridges of blank ammo I got from MGM- left over from Combat. Pat was coming over to my house. I wanted to greet him with a bamboo bong hit. We never use cheap plastic reproductions. As he walks through my back gate, I greet him with my peace pipe. “I got one ready for ya,” I hand him a lighter and bong and step back. He does not know below the herb-in the chamber is gunpowder from Combat. So I’m not exactly sure what will happen next.

“Ignition” at the spark of the match. A massive flame engulfs his face. It was a blinding flash that disappeared as fast as it ignited. Pat has a goat styled beard growth that was smoldering, after the flame flashed out. He couldn’t see briefly. That didn’t stop him from trying to punch me out. Blindly, his swings miss their target as he smolders. I never laughed so hard. Pat at this moment, as when this happened, sees no humor in this story. Once again, he kicks me with those stupid boots he always wears.

He may need counseling, this event really seems to bother him.

We are sitting cross legged on the floor, our heads still remain below the frameless, glassless windows overlooking the Stalag. We can’t be seen, the tops of our heads are below wood framing. But I’m sure at times can be heard- a long ways away. The more we pass the bong the higher each of us gets. Faces change shapes as the effects of being stoned are happening before our eyes. “Take another hit-of fresh air”

We all do Sergeant Schultz impressions …”I see nothing but colors” is my anecdote as each stoner does his own Sgt Schultz. The beauty here is we go home and watch the reruns on T.V, at home- it’s like this series is still going on. In our lives it is. David does a solo verse of a song titled Sweet Leaf by Black Sabbath.

David says he ran into Tom Laughlin, better known in these parts as “Billy Jack”

He continues, ‘We were skateboarding down Ince Blvd. He passed by us on a motorbike and waved.’ “Interesting,” I exclaim! “Every set on this backlot has Billy Jack written inside it, you know.” I elaborate on his story. “Someone has an obsession for “One Tin Soldier” around here.” I continue “I’m glad Billy isn’t security around here, then again, he’d work with us. “

Cheech and Chong take stage in this guard tower. Sister Mary Elephant opens the comedic part of this deep mind journey. Pat and I find anything to do with nuns extra funny since we both served a long sentence at St. Augustine’s. We were both kicked out before 8 th grade. We were told, as were our parents, we have been seen trespassing out of MGM. We were spotted by a station wagon full of nuns, of all things.

The final straw was attaching a strange boy to a rope attached to the school flagpole. We buckled his belt to the rope reserved for flags. They then hoisted him upwards. The school had lots to explaining to the parents and we were told to get our education elsewhere. That leads us to where we’re at now…elsewhere it is!

After spilling the Bong water, a necessary component in Bonging, “we- cotton-mouthed long hair freaky people,” call it a day. We have been laughing non-stop for what seems like days, as for now, we’re just really thirsty…

Written and lived by…Donnie Norden. R.I.P. Patrick Rich you are missed.

Universal Studios 1967 Fire

August 1, 2024 Phantom of the BacklotLeave a comment

Universal Studios European Village in the 1930’s era…Sets I would never get to explore.

1967- Sets affected that remained for decades more, include The Court of Miracles, buildings closest and not entirely engulfed and Spartacus Square. In this photo, a section of buildings on right of frame would remain standing. Paint, wood and stucco would repair the cosmetics as firefighters preserved the integrity of the stairway leading up to the structure itself.

The rooftops I’m on in this picture were built to replace the buildings devastated by the fire.the 1987 fire. This section burned twice, 67 and 87. Construction would start immediately after clean up. The buildings on the left -across the way are in pictures where fire department was battling the blaze. They saved the front side and that street was repaired. Spartacus-most distant- right side of frame avoided any damage. These rooftops pictured-have burned down twice.

Both sides of street burned below me, the cobblestone road is original as buildings went up in foot print of original.

You can see this building from rooftop pics-notice the gated columns. Building salvaged and repaired.

Same building in flames 40 years later…Dressed for- Monuments of Men. A George Clooney film 2014

Buildings in Spartacus Square that survived and were repaired. No longer do they exist, Sound Stages fill this area now.

This building survived and was repaired…Same courtyard, fire department is seen battling in 1967.

Universal color photos from Company 51, Our Emergency Fire Department on the lot.

Spartacus- not touched but as close as you can be. This photo is “Berlin” in Monuments of Men. 2014. Spartacus was torn down, deemed unsafe by the fire department.- I can vouch for that, we had electrical panels on the backside where we ran cables for lighting and transportation power, The floor caved in on me one evening carry a heavy load of electrical cables. Wolfgang Puck Food and Wine festivals used this section of the backlot for magnificent parties. All the food and wine you could handle, entertainment, fancy lighting and movie props, such as statues, sarcophagus’s, chariots, and harems. An annual huge event…some buildings deemed unsafe basically ended this event. Now, brand new stages stand in this area.

Spartacus Set survived as flames surrounded it. In the two New York Street fires I experienced, helicopters were key to saving the lot, especially the film vaults. The main focus was film storage and water dropping helicopters filled up “rapid fire” from our Red Sea. Our lake helped fight these fires.

Spartacus Set-The Long Building in right of frame with a dirt road behind it miraculously survived this event. Universal Studios hosted a party sponsored by Wolfgang Puck, annually, called an American Food and Wine Festival. Mood Lighting, Music, Set Decorations, Spirits and Gourmet Food awaited you. Often used for Basecamps, trailers and tents packed this square. No longer exists…

I would guess this is after the 67′ fire. Everything is exactly detailed as it was. every doorway had an electrical panel inside. Called shore power, we could handle large events here power wise, plus, we back it up with generators in case something gets over amped! The show must go on…

Replacements of what burned down…

“And on my side of the tram”…I did this a thousands times at least….Trams exiting the Parting of the Red Sea next will end up here…

My focus of amazement is not the fire itself, it’s the Showboat in the Black Lagoon. McHale’s Navy filmed in this quadrant of the backlot from 1962 to 1966. In fact, I see P.T. Boats next to a structure we called the Snow House. Fake snow was stored inside. The River Boat would be relocated for a Studio Tour highlight at the opposite end of this lake. The lagoon branches off the lake. This is also where The Parting of the Red Sea animation on your Glamour Tram Tour would be built. The sea would part and trams would drive through here on the way to European Street. That Showboat had 3 separate locations on this lake that I know of. It was not seaworthy when I explored it. This Showboat, Lagoon, and The Parting of the Red Sea no longer exist. The Lagoon became a Satellite Farm for large Satellite Dishes for NBC to broadcast live.

Everything with a gray roof pictured here is a rebuild. Fringe sets, farthest away survived fire.

Court of Miracles is about to become engulfed.

This alley still stands today- all this burned in 1967.

Cobblestone still remains from this fiery event. Castle from The Scorpion King.

This “Court of Miracles” area is often used for catering-tents, tables and a nearby catering truck circle the fountain. A nice place to eat!

It’s a miracle what this fountain has “lived” through…

Our fountain survived the fire, and sits in The Court of Miracles to this day. The most special “prop” on the backlot. It has four flying Lions, and has been used in everything from Monster Movies to Playboy shoots. This fountain has seen it all!

Court of Miracles fountain withstood this holocaust but this village burned. The building in background is the final stop of the Universal Train used in all our old westerns. The tracks continually do a slight curve to give impression they disappear into the frontier. I will take down those tracks in future post.

That’s where my beloved fountain was located in the 1967 Fire.

Every picture tells a story…Be Cautious and follow me, this is my home away from home!

Let’s begin in a blaze of fire-1967. Historic sets, chateaus, and villages, areas most utilized in classic Universal Monsters Films. Chew on that for a moment.

Strange Things Lurk Here

The staple of Universal Pictures, Monsters roamed freely here. It’s almost fitting these ghosts from the past disappeared in one flaming afternoon. Only they didn’t die, nothing really dies around here…it’s the very place I take you through today. Walk softly, trust your instincts, you’re in the footsteps,,, of Monsters.

Two stages still exist that were used in Boris Karloff and Bela Lugosi films-a third, Stage 28, the most haunted of all-has been removed- willingly by NBC Universal. Shame on them, you have unleashed a curse! Stage 12 and 27 remain as testament to studio origins.

Monsters are our Friends

Personally, I would have made Stage 28 the defacto museum of Universal history. The Paris Opera House was built inside and these walls from the Original Phantom of the Opera have been witness to all our history.

Better known as- The Glamour Tram. Celebrating 60 Years on the Backlot

Who Didn’t watch- The Munsters.

Even the Beatles watched them– then they all met in person when the Beatles played in Dodger Stadium in 1965. Unable to book hotels because of potential of being over run, Founder Lew Wasserman put them up here at Universal. If you do not know-MCA stands for Music Corporation of America. That’s who signed my paychecks -those three formidable letters. Monsters and Rock Stars united. A decade later Paul McCartney would return with new friends who love monsters…

Everyone loves our Monsters…

Even Steven Spielberg...This Frankenstein set is located inside Amblin Entertainment. Steven always uses our oldest biggest stages- where all our monster history took place on the front lot.

Let’s Tour the Backlot Sets used in these iconic films…

“All Aboard-I’ll Drive!”

No Smoking is the first rule you will hear from these pretty ladies. To build up enthusiasm, guides are provided “call sheets” to point out who and what we may run into on today’s tour. In 1967-these were the studio productions…

Tram Keeps a Rollin…

After a leisurely tour outside stages we enter the backlot. “All original streets back then.” The P.T. Boat 73- from McHale’s Navy still sits in the lagoon after the show was canceled,” points out our beautiful Glamour Tram Tour Guide. Let’s push on through the Red Sea- ‘Part the Waters Everybody.”

“My cue” to activate the genie that triggers a drain to lower the water level.

“Ahead you see trailers that are used as dressing rooms during filming.” says our expert sitting next to me.

Sometimes – the water level is higher than other times creating severe drag on these vehicles that carry 125 passengers. With wet tires and wet roadways from previous trams ahead of us-this can be a “spinning tire- 16 wheel battle.” On the other side is our Little Europe Set, Spartacus, and the Court of Miracles.

As Blood, Sweat and Tears would sing back then “Spinning Wheel got to go ’round.” No truer words here…I sang that in my head. High water level also sometimes snagged women’s purses if they were on the steel plated floor. Once that happened on my tram with cash spreading into lagoon. The Tour Guide warns you to not leave things on the floor before proceeding through-“So we’re covered-pay attention!”

What a difference a year makes, Red Sea Location – Right before the 1967 Fire McHale’s Navy was still on the air. Dry docked in photo on the right. The Creature from The Black Lagoon set became the Parting of the Red Sea for a rapidly and successfully developing Universal Studio Tour.

“Are those flames ahead ?”

Our vintage tour ends here in the first big Universal Backlot Fire. I saw three huge backlot fires in my career. Two on New York Street and one in our European street area featured today. That was quickly contained limiting damage, so fact is -this area burned again in 1987. It was contained to 4 structures and rebuilt very quickly.

History repeats itself around here…

Written and Lived by…Donnie Norden

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