Tag: travel

Exploring MGM’s Backlot -Time Machine Journey

Phantom of the Backlot3 Comments
Website header for 'The Time Machine Project' featuring a timepiece and a futuristic device on a red background, endorsed by the George Pal Estate as a tribute to the 1960 MGM movie 'The Time Machine'.
Don and Mary Coleman own this site and asked me put my own spin to match their excellent work. I am honored to participate in this First Class presentation they created. Don is al things…The Time Machine. A must visit site for those of us who traverse through time’s wormholes…
Black and white photograph of a film crew on location, featuring a table discussion among actors, a large camera setup, and various crew members in a sandy landscape with oil rigs in the background.

A mystery of mine has finally been solved regarding the making of ….The Time Machine in June 26,1959.

A scene from 'The Time Machine' featuring several characters observing a large, steaming volcano while exhibiting expressions of fear and concern.

I’m at this set everyday with my free range dogs-only very recently did this area directly connect to this set. Basically still untouched as it connects directly to MGM Lot 3.

A blonde woman in a pink dress standing beside a man in a white shirt, both in a natural outdoor setting with unique vegetation.
Black and white image of a film set with a woman and man sitting on a ledge engaged in conversation, while crew members are visible in the background adjusting equipment.

Tape Measure for camera setting…This set is not on MGM Property, rather-Just beyond the fence in the Baldwin Hills Oil Fields. I go here everyday with my dogs…

A blonde woman in a pink shirt and a man in a light-colored vest lean over a stone well in a natural outdoor setting, engaging in a serious conversation.

June 26, 1959 puts you…HERE!

A man in a white shirt examines a large, dome-shaped structure in a barren landscape, surrounded by unusual vegetation and other similar structures.
A group of people gathering around a large, round cauldron in a desert setting, stirring a mixture while others watch attentively.
A volcanic vent emitting a cloud of steam and ash into the air, surrounded by sparse vegetation.
A large metal object emitting flames in a barren landscape, with sparse vegetation around.
Cover of the book 'George Pal: Man of Tomorrow' featuring a smiling man in a suit with a futuristic landscape, including spaceships and a sunset in the background.
Absolutely Brilliant Visionary and Effects Genius-George Pal
A production schedule document listing scenes filmed on specific dates, including details about exterior shots at wells and a sunset landscape, with annotations about actions and timings.

The oil derricks were removed but oil production still takes place and outlasted film production. Oil started being drilled in 1924. “Wells” refers to this location. Barb wire follows me everywhere…

A sunset casting warm hues over a tree line, partially obscuring a house in the foreground.
A silhouette of a dog walking in a field at sunset, with the sun rising behind trees in the background.

Landscape at Sunset, as described on call-sheet.

View from a hillside overlooking a landscape with a sunset, featuring a metal railing in the foreground and distant structures below.

Sunset- Looking down on MGM Lot 3 and this set- Time Travel in the 1990’s.

Close-up of a light-colored dog with blue eyes and a relaxed expression, panting with its tongue out against a natural background.
A close-up of a smiling dog with a speckled coat and bright eyes, standing beside a wooden surface.

“Tell me more about this place” says my Husky Nico. “This field where you chase coyotes is most legendary for MGM T.V action and can be seen in The Twilight Zone- “The Hunt,” Old Man Hyder Simpson and his (Coon Hunting) dog RIP. Garrison’s Gorillas, Combat, The Outer Limits (Zanti’s) filmed all along side this area that only a rusted barbed wire fence separated the MGM wild kingdom from (Boom Town) Oil Production. “We found a buried puzzle piece today- Boy -YES!” says Donnie the MGM Time Traveler

Two men standing beside a fenced area, one holding a leash attached to a dog. In the background, there is a small watchtower and trees.
A man in a plaid shirt interacts with a dog while sitting next to another man in rustic attire, all set against a wooden fence.

“We are looking for a dog named…Lassie” – “No Dogs allowed in here!” says the devil.

A tree-lined path with shadows on the ground, leading towards a distant structure.

This fenced road separates MGM Lot 3 and the Oil Fields. The Road to Freedom in a place where anything can happen and did! –We all time traveled here…

A barbed wire fence in the foreground with a hilly landscape and power lines in the background, under a cloudy sky.

A road to West L.A College cuts through here today.

Silhouette of an oil pump jack against a cloudy sky with the sun partially obscured.
A row of tall eucalyptus trees lining a field with a pile of cut logs in the foreground.
A scenic view of a grassy area with tall, wild vegetation under a cloudy sky, featuring distant hills and scattered trees.
A scenic view of a grassy field with wildflowers, surrounded by trees under a cloudy sky.
A serene landscape featuring tall grasses and wildflowers under a partly cloudy sky with a setting sun.

These landscapes around MGM have barely changed.

Close-up view of a chain-link fence with a rusted metal post and barbed wire in the background, surrounded by greenery.

My old MGM Lot 3 (Get In) spot still has a rusted original MGM barb wire pole. This Morock Village we visit was located just the other side of Eucalyptus Lane.

A tranquil scene featuring a vibrant green pond surrounded by lush trees and palm plants.
A serene landscape featuring a body of turquoise water surrounded by lush greenery and trees on a sunny day.

Morock Location -Raintree–Lot 3 Lake

A black and white photo of four people playing by a river. A man is lifting two women while another woman stands nearby, all enjoying a sunny day outdoors.

MGM Lot 3 lake- 1959

A view through lush greenery overlooking a tranquil scene by a river, with people engaging in various activities along the water's edge.
A serene outdoor scene depicting a group of people gathered near a riverbank, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers, enjoying a leisurely moment in nature.

MGM Lot 3 Lake- Time Travel happens here- here are a couple kids arriving from…The Twilight Zone

MGM Lot 3
Children playing in a garden, with two boys on a seesaw and a girl holding a stick nearby, in front of a rustic house.
Children interacting with an elderly woman in a kitchen, with a large cake on the table and a variety of fruits in the foreground.
A wooden sign displaying '5002-5010 SHOWBOAT PLACE' surrounded by lush greenery and garden plants.
A historic steamboat named 'Cotton Blossom' with multiple decks and smokestacks navigating a river, decorated with flags and a few people aboard.
Cotton Bossom -Showboat MGM Lot 3.– Traveling back in 1951.
A rocky shore with colorful leaves and a serene, green pond in the background, framed by lush trees and buildings.

A pristine Utopia-Raintree Town Homes maintain this former MGM Backlot 3.

A man with a beard wearing a blue shirt and hat sits beside a woman in a light jacket, both smiling while sitting on a large rock surrounded by greenery.
A weathered wooden post surrounded by dry leaves and underbrush, with trees and a body of water in the background.

Don and Mary Coleman-at the MGM Lot 3 Lake. It was my honor to assist these Time Travelers in an attempt to locate the exact location of the Morlock Village set. I insisted it was on the backlot-until a call sheet and a picture drew the conclusion that this set was just behind Lot 3 in the neighboring Standard Oil Fields that are still pumping oil here in 2026…Oil Production dates to 1924.

Two young men sitting on a rock by a river, wearing light-colored tunics, with water and greenery in the background.
Children playing in a lush outdoor setting, with two girls in light dresses reaching out towards a boy standing nearby among tropical plants.
A man standing in a lush, tropical garden surrounded by vibrant green palm leaves and colorful flowers.

This space remains untouched by time.

The inside view of a traditional Scottish flat cap featuring a red and green tartan pattern.
Interior of a hat featuring a plaid pattern and a quilted red lining, with a label visible at the edge.

Time Travelers wardrobe – Fabric from Rod Taylor costume…

Image of a typed schedule document with various scene descriptions and details for the film 'Time Traveller'. Contains sections labeled with dates, scene descriptions, and notes about filming locations and actions.
Black and white photograph of a barren landscape with sparse vegetation, including various plants and tree stumps, with a sign labeled 'Exit Wells' prominently featured.

Oil Field side of MGM Lot 3. Eucalyptus Road on MGM Maps is the trees in the distance.

A landscape featuring two people walking through a barren area with sparse vegetation, including agave plants and unusual shrubbery, under a clear blue sky with trees in the background.
A view of tall trees and shrubs along a gravel area, with a cloudy sky in the background.

Morlock Village Location-Baldwin Hills oilfield, as it looks today, the tree line is MGM lot 3. The area I’m in is the oil field side. Match this area where number 55 on map below, this is oilfield side of fence line.

Detailed topographic map showing various features such as a river, an island, and tank areas, labeled with numbers and annotations.

MGM Lot 3 Map – Tarzan Jungle is part of backlot closest to this oilfield. 55 is Eucalyptus Road, a dual Eucalyptus Road also existed on the oil field side. Eucalyptus trees thrived in this area, both in hills and MGM Lot 3. Many still exist that laid witness to all things MGM.

A desolate dirt pathway surrounded by sparse vegetation and trees under a cloudy sky.
A natural landscape featuring various trees and shrubs, with some bending in the wind, set against a backdrop of lush greenery.
An abandoned concrete drainage area surrounded by overgrown vegetation, featuring a dilapidated wooden bridge and a large cylindrical concrete structure.

This is a catch basin hat existed before the Time Machine was filmed here and is still here today to prevent rainwater flooding on the MGM Backlot 3 on rainy days from Badwin Hills runoff, water drains from this basin to La Ballona Creek. This Morlock village incorporated itself all around this area, the trees are MGM Lot 3.

A production schedule page detailing scenes from a film set in a great hall and a sphinx, with dates, scene numbers, and cast members including the Time Traveller and Weena.
Production documents
Schedule document for film production with scene details, dates, and cast information.
Production documents
A detailed steampunk-inspired time machine featuring a luxurious chair, intricate brass and glass components, and mechanical gears.

“Hop on- We are headed to all the exterior sets used in this film.

Cover of 'Time Machine II' featuring a time travel device and a character seated inside, with a colorful background.
A vintage film set featuring an elaborate, futuristic vehicle against a backdrop of stone walls. The scene is dimly lit with a misty atmosphere, and there is a sign labeled 'INT. SPHINX BASE' positioned near the vehicle.
A mythical creature with long hair and animal-like features is holding a woman in a white dress, smiling, in a lush, prehistoric setting.

Beauty and The Beast

A Rottweiler facing a coyote on a sandy path surrounded by vegetation.

Predators still reign supreme, dating back to dinosaurs that are buried here that provide the raw material for the oil business taking place alongside MGM Lot 3. Coyotes, foxes, raccoons, owls and hawks have taken over this Movieland landscape I visit everyday.

Close-up of a decayed animal skull resembling a lion, showing hollow eye sockets and exposed teeth, lying on dirt ground.

Nature has its own Time Travelers constantly coming and going in this space devoid of clocks.

A black and white photograph of a film set resembling a dense forest, featuring large stone structures and various types of foliage. Visible lighting equipment is mounted above, indicating stage production.

The Great Hall, a set built on stage on MGM Lot 1 but also a partial Great Hall exterior built on the MGM Backlot 3. This set also existed on Stage 20, MGM Main Lot. Notice the lighting from perms on stage.

Large, abstract stone statue resembling a head, surrounded by lush greenery and tropical plants.

The Great Hall- Lot 3. The head was added in post production on to this backlot set.

Black and white photo of a toppled vehicle in a lush garden, featuring ferns and tropical plants, with a modern structural background.
A man wearing a checkered jacket stands with his back to the camera, looking at a large ornate door. Beside him is a colorful, vintage-style time machine with red upholstery and various decorative elements.
Movie poster for H.G. Wells' The Time Machine, featuring a time travel device and a man seated inside it, with motion effects conveying speed.
A person seated in a mechanical device resembling a futuristic machine with large, intricate components and transparent panels.
Fortunately- I too am a Sky Pilot! –Mach 4 version.
A creative depiction of the 'Twilight Zone' featuring a large eye, a clock, and a figure floating in a starry background.

This is how time flies by when you push the handle forwards or backwards.

Film schedule document outlining scenes, locations, and dates for filming, specifically for a time travel-related project.
Production documents
A lone figure stands before a large, dilapidated structure with a dome-shaped roof, featuring broken elements and overgrown surroundings.

This set has a matte painting incorporated- only the stairway is real and located on MGM Lot 3 -Set 59

A detailed land survey map displaying various lots, structures, and roadways, including labeled sections such as 'M.G.M. LOT 3' and 'D. WELL'. The map features marked drainage pipes, hydrants, and topographical elements.

Set 59 on MGM maps. A Matte painting combined with the actual stair set.Best remembered for library steps in a Burgess Meredith Twilight Zone where his glasses break as he just finishes sorting out his favorite priceless books…(Time Enough at Last). Also filmed in 1959…

A black and white image of a person walking up steps in a park-like setting with bare trees and lampposts.
A smiling man wearing glasses is sitting among stacks of books, reading a book with enthusiasm.
A man sitting on stairs surrounded by stacks of books, holding a few close to his chest, with a distressed expression amidst a chaotic backdrop.
A man with gray hair examines a pair of glasses while surrounded by stacks of books on steps.

Twilight Zone connection – this aired in November – 1959. As time would have its way-this was most likely the next thing filmed at this stairway set following- The Time Machine. Time again was the featured narrative- Time Enough at Last-Who didn’t tear up when this happened?

The living room of Mr. Henry Bemis from 'The Time Machine', featuring a man reading a newspaper.

A Matte Painting tops off this set-the dome head top is the painted-finishing touch. Clues and props used in both Time Machine and Time Enough at Last. Absolutely Fascinating, Time tells its own stories. In my Time travels I met Burgess Meredith at MGM Lot 1- under the water tower as he was taking a break outside while filming ROCKY. Mr. Dingle and I cross paths in a brief moment in time that became a precious memory as it aged and faded into time and space.

Two male characters in colorful robes, one in gold and red and the other in pink, standing together indoors with a serious expression.
A black and white photo of a young man smiling, wearing a turtleneck sweater.
Close-up portrait of an elderly man wearing a black beret and a light-colored jacket, looking directly at the camera with a serious expression.

A most famous Time Traveler in this area close by to Desilu where he portrayed a villain named-The Penguin.

A cozy cottage surrounded by trees in autumn foliage, with a snow-covered path leading to the entrance at night.
A scene from the library in 'The Time Machine' featuring vintage furnishings and a large clock.
Black and white photograph of a rustic house surrounded by trees, featuring a white picket fence and a 'Private Property, Keep Out' sign.

This set is known as The Vinegar Tree House. A friendly guard told me all about this set being used in this film and that’s what he called this set-Vinegar Tree House -do to particular trees that grow on the flip side of this set.

A horse-drawn carriage parked in front of a house surrounded by autumn foliage, with a driver in a hat sitting on the carriage.
A hand holding a small, intricately designed toy vehicle with a large wheel, decorated with various components including a cigar and colorful embellishments.
Two men in vintage clothing examining a complex mechanical device with colorful components in a dimly lit room.
A vintage-looking time machine model featuring a colorful design with a seat, spinning disk, and various mechanical components.

The 4th Dimension miniature.

A miniature time machine inside a small box, held next to a coin for scale.
A vintage workshop interior featuring a large, whimsical time machine with colorful details and a prominent wheel, alongside various tools and items scattered around.

Full size-first class Time Travel

A potted plant with vibrant orange flowers and green leaves, sitting next to a snail on a stone surface.
A close-up of a spiral shell resting on a green surface, featuring a smooth and patterned exterior.
A close-up view of several striped snails climbing on a textured white wall, with some green algae visible.

“I can make snails speed up or completely stop still” …MGM Lot 3 snail exodus.

A man standing at the entrance of a barn, gesturing with his hand. The area features overgrown grass and bushes, with a decorative garden feature visible in the foreground.

1917…

A dilapidated house with a partially collapsed chimney and overgrown vegetation in front. The building features a mix of stone and wooden materials, with several broken windows and a neglected appearance.

East Entrance -Vinegar Tree House–1972

A man in formal attire stands at the entrance of a house, surrounded by a snowy landscape and icicles hanging from the roof.
Black and white photo of a partially collapsed building surrounded by trees, featuring an open balcony and ornate architectural details.

West entrance-A Vinegar Tree-this is same set. Walk in this door and exit 20 feet away, across from the lake out another door that make this set a dual set. this home has two different entrances and identities…Recognise this from “A Thing About Machines,” a Twilight Zone episode, Albert Finchley’s home.

A man in formal attire walks towards a vintage car parked in front of a large, shadowy building at night.
A man in formal attire walks towards a vintage car in front of a large, shadowy house at night.
A man stands in front of a vintage car with headlights shining, set in a shadowy outdoor environment at night.

A man who has had it -with machines.

A vintage photograph showing a stone bridge with arches, surrounded by wooden structures and construction elements in an open area.
A snowy city street scene featuring a storefront labeled 'Wylie's Dainty Store,' with shop windows displaying items. People dressed in period clothing are gathered outside the store, and a lamp post illuminates the cobblestone path. The architecture reflects a historical style, with brick buildings and a staircase leading to a nearby structure.
Abandoned building with peeling paint and broken windows, featuring a decaying facade and visible structural damage, surrounded by overgrown vegetation.
A vintage black-and-white photograph of a street scene, featuring an underground entrance marked as 'UNDERGROUND' and 'AIR RAID SHELTER.' Several classic cars are parked nearby, with people walking and standing around, set against a backdrop of buildings and structures.
A busy urban street scene featuring vintage cars, pedestrians, and a historic archway. The foreground shows people walking, with a shop sign visible in the background.
A vintage scene featuring two classic cars parked near an underground air raid shelter sign, with greenery and skyscrapers in the background.

A split set – notice curb line is the delineator off Copperfield Court and the landing spot of this the Time Machine stopping point.

Exterior view of Gilby's Department Store featuring large windows with a mannequin display, steps leading to the entrance, and a vintage car parked nearby.

A MGM Guard named Al Marioenzi was a veteran officer who shared what it was like to be on this set at Filby’s as they continually dressed these mannequins, over and over. I lived time through his eyes and spoken word. This wonderful friend also shared Louie B. Mayer’s office with myself and my side kick – Maureen. Overtime-Gaurds had a thing for this most pretty trespasser of all-time. Al was suspended for 3 days for befriending us as he was turned in by another guard. The Watch Commander had a rule posted in security -“Do not befriend this Phantom Trespassing Kid” I was a thing-Once Upon a Time!

An abandoned brick building with broken windows and a decaying facade, surrounded by overgrown vegetation and an empty lot. In the background, a construction crane is visible against a clear sky.
A man in a stylish outfit, consisting of a plaid jacket and vest, walking confidently in front of a storefront with a red cross sign and a mannequin in the window.
A man in formal attire stands in front of a building with a sign for 'Perfumes Lingerie,' holding a drink and looking at a poster for 'Shave Clean with Delby.' In the background, another man dressed in silver is exiting the building.
A man in a shiny silver suit holding a round object is gesturing animatedly while talking to another man in a dark blazer. The background features a vintage poster on a textured wall.

Time Travel to my Birthday-June 13-I always visited the backlot on this date.

A close-up view of an abandoned building's entrance, featuring broken windows and dilapidated steps surrounded by overgrown vegetation.

1980 photo of a street ravaged by time.

Historic black and white photograph of a pawn shop named 'Hawkins Pawnbroker' featured on a street with brick buildings, benches, and steps, taken in Copperfield on February 2, 1949.

Before Time Machines were invented-“Lassie Come Home” set in 1949.

A wide shot of a dilapidated industrial building with exposed brickwork and metal staircases, showcasing signs of decay and neglect, surrounded by overgrown vegetation.

Copperfield Court and Filby’s Department Store set.

Looking up the wooden stairs of a tall structure, emphasizing the perspective and depth of the climb.

Catwalks above Copperfield Court-the skies our the limit in Time and Space…

An aerial view of a vintage house with a sloped roof, featuring multiple windows and a central chimney, surrounded by empty outdoor space.
Black and white photograph featuring several vertical wooden posts and a structure with a door and railing, casting shadows on the nearby surface.

“Being There” set for character Chance Gardner/Peter Sellers for last film ever on Copperfield Court…1980. Pictured right-the backside of of Copperfield Court.

A black and white image of a wooded area with trees casting shadows on the ground and a footpath visible.

Time Machine landing spot in this 1976 picture on MGM Lot 2. Through the forest best know for Tarzan an enormous set is being built-look closely- the King Kong walls of Skull Island are being built.

A man sitting in a futuristic, wheeled device in a garden setting, with a stone monument and a decorative structure nearby, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

Same angle in 1959-notice the tiny brick wall still remains undisturbed.

An overgrown area featuring a wooden structure partially hidden by greenery, with trees in the background and a grassy foreground.

My 1974 picture of this stairway used as people try to escape the Mushroom Clouds…

A group of people, including children and adults, walking down steps surrounded by greenery on a sunny day.
A devastated landscape featuring ruined buildings, debris scattered on the ground, and bright red liquid resembling lava flowing through the scene.
A man operating a whimsical time machine with a large clock face and intricate mechanisms, set against a grassy landscape.
A desolate scene depicting a ruined city with destroyed buildings and abandoned cars, covered in debris and dust.

Time to move on – this is one handy machine.

A detailed map showing a residential area with labeled streets and numbered plots, including structures like 'Green Spray Shed' and 'Copperfield Court'.

75 I- is the stairway that the Time Machine is parked – Copperfield Court is Filby’s Store-set 3 # 462

A man in a formal outfit stands near a decorative compass on a pedestal, with a stone plaque beside him, set in a lush garden.
A metal plaque on a stone surface with engraved text dedicating a park to George, by James Filby, in honor of his father's devotion.
A vintage photo service advertisement featuring the words 'BONUS PHOTO exclusive with Snap-pak' and an image of a partially constructed industrial building with steel framing.

All this Time Travel takes place just on the other side of this fence. From the Twilight Zone and all points beyond…

A vintage black-and-white scene featuring a horse-drawn carriage on a street with buildings and people in early 20th-century attire, overlaid with the title 'BACK THERE'.

No Truer Words- I throw in a Bonus Picture from the MGM parking lot. The other side of this steel fence is Filby’s Department Store. The front side of this set pictured was the exterior set of the Twilight Zone-“Back There”

A man in a lab coat stands beside a large, angular scientific device with a transparent top, surrounded by various dials and instruments, depicted in black and white.
Russel Johnson tinkered in time travel is the Twilight Zone episode…”Back There” This Time Machine was stored in a Lot 2 warehouse and a kids favorite capsule to play inside off.
A man inside a glass enclosure, exhibiting a distressed expression while struggling to break free from the restraints.

Time waits for know one in a capsule that bends and manipulates this consortium.

A figure stands in front of a large golden clock set against a starry cosmic background, symbolizing the passage of time.

Time Travel Exits…Let’s Go Reeling in the Years

Today, June 13, 2026-we unfold time to to June of 1959, to see the changes time has bestowed upon us…

This story involves 3 different Time Machines of which I am lucky enough to have history with. I’m qualified to pilot all 3 machines. My first certification was the machine used in…The Twilight Zone. An MGM favorite prop for teenagers of the 1970’s-built for traveling in and out of Rod Serling’s time travel needs.

At that time in space-we lived on all these backlot locations used in 1960’s time travel. In the year 2000, I worked on my own – Time Machine Project on the Dreamworks remake. I’m living proof Time Travel exists-at least when mixed with the backlot magic that resonates continuously under the Power of Now manifestations.

This is a follow up on today’s version of yesteryear. Let’s see what has changed and what remains unchanged as time picks and chooses what fate has in store involving past, present, and future. There are no guarantees- when you tug on that tiny diamond handle that propels backwards, forwards, sideways and in some cases -upside down.

Don’t bother reaching for your seatbelts, non exist!

The MGM Studio Backlot 3 disappeared in 1972 as our time traveling begins. So that’s the future of this studio 12 years after Rod Taylor and Yvette Mimieux visited this landscape.

A smiling couple posing together against a light blue background, featuring a man in a brown jacket and a woman with long blonde hair in a white dress. The image is promotional for the film 'Joy in the Morning.'

In 1965, I see Yvette has a new boyfriend-Dr. Kildare now carries the Trophy as we move forwards.

The area surrounding the Morlock Village is relatively unchanged as we trek forward through the 80’s. But the nature surrounding this set is alive and well, let’s get out and walk.

Listen… Let the landscape tell it’s tales

The quiet is deafening. An occasional oil pump is the most common sound that reminds us man coexists with the predators in this area today. Animals here are generational. They are ancestors from the distant past to present day. “Resilient” best describes their survival. Predators thrive in this Morlock Landscape.

Nice animals monkey around in the daylight, squirrels go in and out of the Raintree Complex that replaced the backlot. Rabbits provide high speed chase opportunities for the coyotes that torment the friendly critters. No wonder “The Hunt” was filmed here with RIP and Hyder Simpson. I am reminded everyday that ” Even the Devil Can’t Fool a Dog.” No truer words…

Lizards sun themselves, turtle doves coo, occasionally, skunk and raccoons pass by. A tiny fox is a rare but dignified grand traveler – for centuries. Fireflies love to show of there ability to hover, disappear, then reappear like they are miniature Time Machines. Butterflies, colored birds of all sorts and sizes frolic happily. Crows are the dominate species and often sit proudly in large numbers on the still remaining eucalyptus trees from MGM. A daytime hunter is the beautiful red tail Hawk, soaring upwards with a couple of flaps, then reversing it’s course and effortlessly doing a 180 degree downward look on all things taking place below.

Often “take- offs” from the large portion of the MGM Lot 3 lake soar over your head as Ducks and Canadien Geese venture…off lot. Frogs and crawfish peek out from the well maintained MGM lake that was often the African Jungle for Tarzan. MGM had its own zoo and horse stables. Elephants called this backlot their home as a Big Top that was bigger than Barnum and Bailey’s traveling animal entertainers.

In the 60’s, the MGM backlot was most famous for War TV. Combat, then Garrison’s Gorrillas and The Rat Patrol filmed this backlot non-stop. The quiet area became a battlefield for gunfire and explosions as all the nature on the studio lot felt the need to escape and headed out of the studio and into the hills…literally.

Animals had to tolerate being in the middle of WW2.

Predators-Visitors in the dark.

Owls are the official “backlot bird” and thrive on reducing the rodent and snake population. They “hoot” passionately when humans explore areas near their nests. MGM Gaurds had the best job in the world-having the keys to this kingdom. Security was the most feared predator for our trespassing generation. The guards on Lot 3 use salt rock guns to emphasize No-Trespassing. A land patrolled by Sharp Shooters…

A vintage police sharpshooter medal from 1938, featuring crossed guns and the inscription 'MGM POLICE DEPT'.
A historic black and white photo of a smiling police officer wearing a cap with insignia and a uniform adorned with badges, focusing on a specific badge highlighted in a red circle.

Don’t let looks fool you-he’s armed and dangerous.We were told this by trespassers we ran into oder than us and who were being chased through this exact area

A bright yellow flower with petals surrounding a dark center, growing on a green stem with leaves in a natural setting.
A dry landscape featuring wilted plants and sparse foliage under a clear blue sky, with sunlight shining brightly from above.
A foggy landscape with trees and shrubs partially obscured in mist, viewed through a chain-link fence.

I push the handle forwards as flowers turn from full bloom to no bloom, low clouds turn to high clouds as the warm summer sun takes its annual foothold, as regular as any clock. I glide into June- 2026 as easy as I left 1959. I’m my own version of Homer’s Odyssey, this time I’m Odysseus.

Wars were once fought here by both ancient armies and popular MGM TV. Steeples, castles, and forts have been replaced by luxury condominiums. Creatures that disappeared long ago just took refuge in the oil fields.

A surreal black and white close-up of a creature resembling a spider with a human-like face and large, expressive eyes.

Since 1959, so much has changed, yet nothing has changed. I’ve just grown older, the earth doesn’t age, just man and his technology. Newton and Albert Einstein’s theories on time travel are backed up now by an Artificial Intelligence, a technology that will change each forever has arrived, butis it our friend ?

It seems friendly, driverless cars now exist and are much more courteous sharing the road than those driven by humans. A.I just informed me several living rock legends are- still, alive and well.

Mick, Kieth, Paul, Ringo, Frampton, Clapton, Dylan and Steely Dam still tour. Don’t be surprised if you see my Time Machine parked at The Greek Theater. Music defies time and plays continously…in outer space. It’s needed. Star Wars bars still play Juke Box music from the 70’s. Mad Magazine is still popular for 70 year old kids. I don’t know how many hours Maureen and said we were studying when we were actually reading this interactive piece of literature, always trying to fold exactly the trick page. Now, I realize there is no such thing as …waisted time.

Speaking of which, the pot has gotten a lot better and expensive. The Twilight Zone Time Machine was enclosed plexiglass and captured all the smoke inside making all those who dared entry disappear in a clouded veil of cannibas.

Time gets warped, twisted, and only exists in the present, worm holes allow for safe off ramps when on a night out-cruising.

Another change I notice is : Robots no longer look and act like “Robby”- they are much more human in appearance. They can be peaceful and desirable, or ready to kill you in whatever Combat is taking place. Soon everyone will have at least one robot in their possession.

A Zombie Apocalypse was predicted, usually in movies. But it turns out in 2026-Zombies are EVERYWHERE…

Every street corner practically has these lost souls-what’s changed in the last few decades?

“Oh my” how civilization has changed since 1959. I take notes wondering where civilization is headed.

Kids play computer sports rather risk getting hurt, even their bikes pedal themselves at literally-Break Neck Speeds. “No truer words” describe describe the risks inherent. We just used skate boards, roller skates and Sting Rays. Sure seemed fun back then. I wish we had these two wheeled battery powered chariots.

Kids now E-Bike as if they were on a Time Machine with wheels attached. Maybe, I’m one of them, but from the past!-

Maybe, I’m seeing myself in a a different time and space…

I wish to sincerely thank Don and Mary Coleman for inviting me into their world of Time Travel, I to am a Time Traveler and loved going…Back to the Future.

Final thoughts…The Time Machine used in The Big Bang Theory is not the original, it is a mock up owned by Fred Barton. Not the original. The last use of the real one was in -Time Machine-The Journey Back in 1993. Don Coleman was given a “Thank You” in the credits. Don supplied the console and lever the actor held up to polish the wheel and a few bits or props on the work table. Some of Don Coleman’s pictures are used. Don came up with a way to spin the dish in the workshop.

We conclude with knowing this origin Time Machine is alive and well and being stored in a warehouse pending litigation of who will take ownership now that the estate is in transition. This machine will someday travel again and will be forever captured in recounting- Time Travel.

Treat yourself to this classic film knowing what you know now-it is truly- One Fun Ride

Written and lived by…Donnie Norden

Big Old Jetliners

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Notice the bloody tree branch that killed the pilot.

“Pilot Error” ruled as cause of crash. Tree branch dislodged his cap and a section skull.

Inside-no passengers involved-more mystery

Falls Lake -Universal Backdrop film set. I actually forgot what set I was on here-I ask my audience for help. Does anyone recognize this plane wreck? After 35 years off non stop Universal Movie sets-this crash flew under my radar. I would love to match the show to the pictures I took here.

The tail piece beyond the cockpit/fuselage is a different film than this-both involve huge plane crashes.

Falls Lake snowed in.

Landing gear behind our fake forest set up. This usually has 7 to 10 feet of water here in the basin beneath the sky backdrop.

From this mysterious plane wreck to a more famous crash that because of great piloting, everyone on board walked away. “Sully” lands where others crashed before.

“Sully” recreation of The Hudson emergency, Universal Falls Lake Backdrop.

Plane interior at lake

A successful “saving grace aviation moment” captured at Universal Studios.

This plane died a movie star death for War of the Worlds…

Location-Victorville, Ca- same ANA Jumbo Jet being packed up for transport to Universal Studios Backlot.

Here is that plane on the set of War of the Worlds. A Paramount Blockbuster, directed by Steven Spielberg, starring Tom Cruise. It still sits as viewed here, a very popular Tram picture stop.

The street light remains on after the crash and the car alarm goes off when trams pass by.

“Welcome to….Los Angeles”

“Is there a doctor on board?”

A news copter view of this -Breaking News!

We fly back in time now….
The fictitious Columbia Airlines
Good luck with this plan…
This guy can fly…At this time in the early 70’s-Mr. Heston did 3 movies as a pilot. Airport, Midway, and Sky Jacked. If he’s your pilot, your in for a wild ride!

TRUST ME-I”M GOOD!

Screenshot

Pictured right-Director Jack Smite at work.

Success breeds sequels- “We are now boarding–Dean Martin is your Captain”
“I didn’t know this guy was our pilot-I saw him at the bar with some stewardess’s”
A Harbinger of things to come…

I did not realize – we did this Tour Show. I wish it was there when I started…I had my own airplanes I pretended to fly at MGM in this era.

The Captain left his Heineken bottle behind in a hasty exit with a group of stewardess’s…MGM

1970-Airport- 1

When I started my Universal career, I worked with guys who were on this film. Wind Machines, my department operates Ritter Fans used for special effects. We maintain and operate these and supply the necessary Direct Current needed for their operation. Effects would in this case toss snow flakes in front of the fan blades creating a blizzard. Fun stuff.

Key scenes were done in our huge parking lot located on Barham Blvd. A plane was stuck on a snow-covered runway.

This story paints the picture of what all took place. The studio parking lot was not the intended location. Conditions made it impossible to film at M.S.P. Back to Hollywood we go, the Art Department cleverly decided to utilize our huge parking lot. We can make snow, even in comfy temperatures. No pictures exist, I would have took some but this is before my employment.

But I was lucky enough to work with the guys who created the snow storms and shared stories with me.

2005 War of the Worlds

30 years after Airport 1975- Steven Spielberg creates a town that has a 747 crash into it, because we are at war with Extra -Terrestrials. Not the friendly kind like E.T, ones that don’t really like us- humanoids. To finish off a set just built specifically to appear ravaged by a 747 crash, all we needed now was a Big Old Jetliner.

Out of a scrapheap in Victorville, we found our star. A Boeing 747 S.R. A domestic wide body built for Japan. ANA painted its emblem on the sides and the initials stand for All Nippon Airways (ANA). The plane was bought for $60,000. Transporting it to the studio cost 3 times more and the logistics were difficult since-we really don’t have an AIRPORT-at this studio.

Using a helicopter, as well as a series of lorries that were escorted by police, it spiraled the cost upwards into the $ 200,000 thousand altitude. This set was only a 3-day shoot, critical in the film. On my Phantomofthebacklots -Youtube Channel, I have film of these scenes on my tutorial site. I highly recommend a visit to the behind the scenes making of this movie.

This crash never left, this Paramount film had the responsibility to strike this set located in between The Psycho House and The Greeting Center when visiting-Jurassic Park. Universal waved the “strike – phase” and accepted keeping this set up for the Studio Tour.

This is a fun story to read next time your waiting in an airport…

Written and Lived by…Donnie Norden

Film Universal- The Brochure

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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.“
Screenshot
Screenshot
Amazing Stories take place here
Looks like my childhood!

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

For a nominal fee…

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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 !

Easter Egg Hunt at MGM

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The final scene from MGM’s Easter Parade 1948. I have my own special Easter celebration on MGM Backlot 2.

Easter is when the difference between Catholic School and Public School is most noticeable. The days off don’t line up at all. Catholic kids wait for the resurrection before being cut loose with days off. Public School just calls it “spring break” no morals or scruples, just colored eggs and time-off. We pray- while they play!

But on Easter Sunday…all is forgiven. We all unite as one-under the guise of a good Peter Rabbit story. This is the time east meets west, all roads lead to God.

Jews, Catholics, Muslims, even Atheists, can come together as flowers start their magnificent blooms. Today, God, in his magic, created colored eggs and chocolate bunnies. These are for kids of every age and color to unite in this small, small world. It’s amazing what candy can do…it breaks down fences and barriers.

My Easter lasted three months last year. That’s when Jimmy and I finally finished finding all the eggs. Two stubborn faded hard-boiled guys stayed hidden until around the 4th of July. Their odor and decomposition finally gave them away. They were lodged inside the steel bumper of an old Rambler that my dad has parked in our long driveway…

Odor solved; it was beginning to affect our kitchen table breakfasts. “No mom, I don’t want any eggs today or ever again.”  We’ve been living off pancakes for over a month due to the foul effects of rotten eggs.

This year, my mom has encouraged me to do this elsewhere, like Jimmy’s house. She still wants to spend Saturday coloring a couple dozen fresh ones. Mom’s quite the artist. The rule this year is to hide them somewhere else.

I am walking home from Market Basket with 2 dozen eggs in tow. I also have a box full of chocolate marshmallow bunnies. I see Maureen as I turn the corner headed home for the decorating party. She is wearing a new Led Zeppelin t-shirt. We both attended the concert at the Fabulous Forum. However, we were not there together. We excitedly exchange notes: “My seats were terrible” she says, “My seats were great” I brag. “They sounded sloppy drunk” she complains but it was mind-blowing!” we agree. “What ya got there Donnie?”

“Oh yeah, eggs!” then I ask her, “do you want to sneak in MGM and hide these with me?” “You hide a dozen. I will hide a dozen at the same time. There’s no better place for a hard-boiled egg hunt than MGM.”

“Of course, what time?” she chimes. “Bright and early. I have to go to church about 11.” That was the one condition I had to agree to, to get this bag of Easter goodies.”

My mom loves MGM, if she didn’t walk with a crutch, she would come with us, I’m sure…bless her heart. In the spirit of living through her son, she has helped me decorate my eggs. We decorated them after MGM movie stars!

We are talking an Easter Parade of eggs, saluting MGM legends. Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Liz Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Ricardo Montalban, Roddy McDowall, Clark Gable, Judy Garland and Laurel and Hardy. MGM’s big hitters made up and ready for their 7am backlot call times.

A Bright Easter Morning – 7am

Maureen greets me on my porch, my parents are still asleep, we sit on the stairs admiring these hard-boiled legends. My mom should work for the MGM Art Department. Fantastic stuff, mom outdid herself on these hard-boiled entertainment legends!

We know these will end up being pulverized, that’s how most our egg hunts terminate, with a Battle Royale.

We load everything in a canvas bag with handles. It’s easy to run with, just in case a whiskered easter villain with a badge interrupts us. TWA has its logo stitched on each flapped side; it fits nicely on my shoulder. I feel like a pilot. Why not? We do have a jumbo jet inside the airplane hangar. It was used in the movie Skyjacked, starring Chuck Heston.

TWA meet MGM as 4 tennis shoes hit the ground at the same time at our Grand Central Train Station. We quickly occupy a seat in the Pullman train cars to get a feel for what’s up on the backlot. I expect zero security, or a courtesy Bronco drive through at best. Maybe the White Rabbit will run by, anything can happen here. We’ll tell him a hookah-smoking caterpillar has given us the call.

The sun enters through the train windows. These windows are caked with dust patterns on the east side compartments. It shines on the eggs we are looking over one last time…Nice, mom made a Louis B. Mayer egg, and it’s gold, with round glasses!

Maureen finds a special egg in her carton… Lassie… mom painted the dog!

We love all of Lassie’s shows. I should have brought my dog Pebbles with us, that’s all that’s missing here. This is like That’s Entertainment- hard boiled!

Ok, here’s the rules…Catholic kids always have to have rules, it’s the law.

“You hide yours here, in these trains…and inside the Grand Station,” as I gesture with my arms. I will go to the cemetery behind the Romeo and Juliet sets. Your hunt will be in the graveyard.”

“Sounds fun …get out of here!” as I am pushed out the side train door back onto the cement platform. “I’ll be back after I hide these guys, you have this entire train station to work with…see you in about 15 minutes!”

Twenty – minutes later, at the depot…

There are five trains at this depot. Each train has its own long aisle with rows of seats. The seats provide hiding places.

I find my first egg, sitting proudly like the head of a movie studio would. It’s the Golden Egg, with Louis B. Mayer on it. It is in between the arm rests separating two reclining seats. His glasses are facing forward, as if he’s ready to have his ticket punched… in the first-class section.

He is the first one to go back inside the egg carton. Maureen is upset I found that one so quickly. She said, “I think he wants out of this dusty train.” He would like to head back to his clean white office as I shut the lid on this mogul.

Peter Lawford has just been located, in an overhead compartment, he is yellow and hidden properly. The initials P.L. are on this egg in case we couldn’t recognize this member of the rat-pack. One of my mom’s heart throbs. This is so fun!

Maureen says there are a few outside also… I climb down the steel steps. I examine the exterior, underneath the carriage, the train’s massive wheels, the couplers, and the air hoses. It feels like a conductor doing his pre-trip inspection. As luck and hinting would have it, Fred Astaire has been spotted on the sprouting grass between the rails. This spot is where he filmed the Band Wagon and the classic song –By Myself.

Astaire… scene from the Band Wagon, but mom has drawn him in his more familiar top hat. (Grand Central Station MGM Backlot #2).

My Easter Egg Hunt location (Grand Central Station MGM Backlot #2).

Free Range Fred Egg

Roddy McDowall is hiding around here I’m told. That hint takes me to the doorway he walked through when we both met him on Planet of the Apes. As I walk through that same door today, his egg appears, it’s on the fence cross brace in plain sight. It says Roddy on one side and is died Purple. That is a perfect color for the Bookworm.

I met Roddy McDowall for my second time on this TV series in 1974. He greeted all the kids who were watching these scenes filmed at Grand Central Station. The series wanted an abandoned look, bringing in cement fragments. The station was used in Young Frankenstein right before this and was very fancy. Both Planet of the Apes and Young Frankenstein were 20th Century Fox renting the MGM backlot. This station would get fixed up nicely for The Fortune, this deterioration is set dressing. This would become fit for a Band Wagon, once again.

The hunt begins here, we climb in where these train tracks enter the backlot.

We’re leaving the Train Station and off to the cemetery! -There is a fence in this picture laying on the ground, white and dented, a car crashed through it. It was a traffic accident, not a stunt. Imagine crashing your car on the backlot. I’d keep driving around, leave out the main gate. The studio added a replacement fence. Funny enough, it was the side of a ship. It had port holes to look into the studio. That’s the story behind this picture. Look closely, the rear of the train has a guard getting out of the Red Bronco. They patrol this area knowing this is our favorite way in.

My partner in today’s story…This picture is from Maureen’s balcony seen here holding her nephew Shad, In the background is Lot 2. Yes, she had balcony MGM seating. We watched filming from her bedroom. So much fun…Notice the fence and you will see two-port holes. That’s the replacement to the fence-the side of a ship. Only in Hollywood…

MGM Lot 2 cemetery in its glory. Site of my original Hole in the Fence. When we entered, we were scared stiff, we crawled in the high grass along these tombstones. This cemetery was moved around to different locations. NY Street used it on Soylent Green. Also, The Phantom of the Backlot used these graves at Tarzan’s Lake. Then Young Frankenstein made a graveyard below the Girls Reform School I still call Boystown. These are Styrofoam. Some are wood.

These gravestones were used in “Young Frankenstein” and seen here in transit.

A picture I took of the location of the Lot 2 cemetery. I’m peeling apart Peter Lawford as we head over to the next set. I’m hungry… it’s always fun when you can eat game pieces. The cemetery relocated for more filming.

We are done on my part of the hunt, next it’s her turn!

An egg hunt in a haunted cemetery…

“OK girl,” I kept it simple; most are in this cemetery but two are at the pool, just sunning themselves.” She scans the field of retired souls, and now slowly walks apprehensively in search of…movie eggs. Cautiously, she touches the tops of the graves, like she’s knocking on a front door. She is warming up to this macabre environment. I bet no kids anywhere are having an Easter Morning quite like this… except maybe in Transylvania.

That’s good because I hid a white egg with Red Slippers on it- inside a coffin. This coffin has weeds growing out of the partially open lid. The egg just rolled under a wad of ancient and current spider webs. We will see if these slippers can be recovered. Otherwise, Boris the Spider is the new owner of these painted on Ruby Red Slippers.

She points to the sarcophagus, looking for some reaffirmation, I blankly stare back, “Open it!”

Knowing she hates spiders -her head turns as if she’s seen a Phantom, perhaps Lon Chaney. He lurked this lot in the silent era after all… Boldly she grabs the Judy egg. “It’s cracked”, she says. Then in one smooth move as I approach her, she throws it at me sidearm.

Bullseye! She’s good… she can turn a double-play, she’s that good. The cracked egg is now pulverized as I tumble backwards alongside someone less fortunate than me. From a horizontal position, I look up at the graves as the dust settles, I slowly lift myself back up. We both bust up, “keep hunting”-as I think-your time will come!

I left this simple. A six-year-old could do it. Most of these hard-boiled movie stars are now recovered, except the two “E’s”…Elvis and Esther. Esther sits balanced on the edge of her own diving board. Skateboards have replaced swimmers nowadays. Maureen examines this blue egg with Esther on it. We agree to let her roll off the diving board. This will be her final plunge. We will leave her in the pool for eternity… Elvis, with your collar and fancy hair, you just stay seated in that metal lawn chair.

We sit next to King’s egg and talk. Just Maureen, me, and an egg painted with hair, glasses, and a collar. We decide to leave him be, “Happy Easter Elvis, if you get hungry, my mom’s having a buffet, around 2-ish”

Written and lived by… Maureen Miller and Donnie Norden

The Scenic Art Department…MGM

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Is it real bird, or is it a painting?

In the movie business, there is no such words as TWO BIG…

We will explore this iconic building. Scenic artists created canvas paintings large enough to change the view out of the living room. They could even cover your house completely. Anywhere and everywhere, pick your era, it probably is rolled up inside here. The creations made here are museum quality, and J.C Backings operated out of this iconic building from 1972 until recent. The building and the Art Department itself date much farther back. Basically, this place is the museum of movie backdrops.

The building itself is so iconic it has doubled as an exterior film set. In Somebody Up There Likes Me, it is part of a prison. In Soylent Green, it is hidden in a matte painting of future New York.

The elevator that greets you as you walk inside this structure is fit for a king. A king from the thirties named Irving Thalberg. In the 1950’s, his personal elevator moved from the Thalberg Building. Louie B Mayer resided there. It found its way to this iconic facility. It does more than just take artists up to the painting platform, it’s more like a Time Machine.

The fact the vendor J.C Backings has relocated has created rumor’s this building may be torn down. It has outlived it’s usefulness if there is such a thing. CGI can green screen images where paintings once occupied window and patio spaces, along with rolling vista’s.

This building is designed to capture all the natural light the sun has to offer. I will take you on the roof as to show you the concept capturing sky light through clever engineering. This place is a palace few outside the studio know or appreciate.

If indeed Sony does remove this iconic building, Hollywood needs to salvage Irving’s Thalberg’s elevator. This building in it’s entirety should be a Hollywood Museum.

This scenic backdrops still get rented and are part of J.C ‘s stockpile of history that sits silently, collecting dust. Many canvas paintings have been rolled up for decades from the looks of things. The Sony Tour refuses to walk you inside even though the tour starts right outside. They should at least allow you to poke your head inside. You should at least look up at this uniquely designed art house. At least, let folks see this elevator.

Today, I will take the liberty to show you around the MGM Scenic Art Building…

Irving Thalberg’s elevator!
The upstairs exit
The coolest elevator I’ve been in since Blade Runner at the Bradbury Building. My pictures don’t do it justice, this is a thing of beauty.
The West entrance to the scenic art building…
The entry as you walk inside the Scenic Art Department
This not look like much but, there is a ton of engineering involved here. To get these massive canvas’s to become a picture easel. Old artist’s would teach “hands on” to the next generations of artists. This place was integral to the Motion Picture Industry.
A Quote from Arnold Gillespie, Art Director, Head of Special Effects. 1924-1965. The True Wizard of MGM. Grasp this depth best needed by these artists.

Let’s take this opportunity to access the roof…

Even the roof is slotted and glass. Painting can be done at night and lighting used on sets helps light these backdrops inside this department. In the day time, existing day- light is sufficient.
The studio water tank for filming actors swimming while the camera never gets wet…This was removed a few years back. It sat at the base of the side of the Art Building that has all the windows.
This area doubled as a prison in Paul Newman’s- Somebody Up There Like’s Me
The bottom of this picture is the live half. The top is a matte painting. This scene took place on Lot 1 below the scenic art building. Soylent Green 1972
The scenic art building in a matte painting in Air Raid Wardens
The Overland Gate expansion. This picture is taken from upstairs in the Filmways building across the street. It is the Sony Studio’s west entrance today. It was still MGM when this was taken. It is a construction entrance only at that time. The right side of the photograph has an edge of the scenic building. The movie sign above the studio, left of the water tank has the title… Why Would I Lie ?
Hopefully, The Clock never strikes Mid-night at this legendary Scenic Artist Facility that almost secretly ignores time…

Written and lived by Donnie Norden

Windy

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I Share with you a story on this Windy Christmas Morning about a windy day on the MGM Backlot. Follow me knowing this -“If I run- you better run faster!”

Picture taken from same roof as the picture below– the Small Town Courthouse

Windy days on the backlot are exhilarating. The wind can choose to be gentle, romancing you into the peaceful backdrop, or she can irrationally shift her mood. You can hear the rustling when her temper gets riled up. My eyes get wide at her warning not knowing how tumultuous her fury may manifest itself.  It’s wildly fun.

During the day, rooftop views are those of fairy tales. The distant villages and steeples have extra vibrancy, like a brand-new color TV. Chimneys on the cottage roofs endure another high velocity test. They still maintain their fake red brick storybook appearance.

The rooftop of the courthouse in Small Town Square is located at the center most point of the lot. This roof is equal in distance to the fence in almost every direction. This is dead center of this lot-Looking North.
Andy Hardy’s House is behind the Arco sign, the opposite side is the Hardy front door.
Pictures taken on a windy afternoon on the MGM backlot from the same rooftop…

Who’s peekin’ out from under a stairway
Calling a name that’s lighter than air
Who’s bending down to give me a rainbow
Everyone knows it’s Windy

Who’s tripping down the streets of the city
Smilin’ at everybody she sees
Who’s reachin’ out to capture a moment
Everyone knows it’s Windy

And Windy has stormy eyes
That flash at the sound of lies
And Windy has wings to fly
Above the clouds

-The Association

Earth, Wind and Fire are three elements. They have shaped not only this planet but also the backlots I traverse daily. When the wind howls at my house, it’s like an invitation to explore my backlot under conditions similar to war. All my friends know what I’m talking about. The wind opens up new horizons and changes the landscapes, then slams those same doors shut, all within seconds. Like some backlot magic act by invisible magicians.

The stirring breezes invite you, no words needed. It’s magic time on a backlot, cherishing the earth’s moods. The planet must feel exceptional today, every direction I turn is pure crystal blue persuasion. Accompanying sounds can be deciphered many ways. A mad influx of studio history mingles with the present-day vibrations. These vibrations resonate all around us. We enter this windy old place for an unplanned, spur of the moment afternoon…

Don’t be afraid…it’s just the wind!

Wind inspired this Twilight Zone episode–The Grave
The Wind Cries...Lee Marvin!

The MGM sound department should record these haunted wisps. They conjure up so much imagination on windy days and nights on their ghoulish backlot. The winds kick up swirls of dust. It’s as if they are trying to recompose famous scenes that took place on these dirt and cobblestone roads. Ghostly images dance in period costumes. Spirits come and go through doorways as they wish. They magically disappear only to reappear in a window or archway across the way. It’s playtime, spirit wise, in this dream factory.

Every landscape, village, and courtyard come to life in its own unique style. Tall mature trees dance to whistling howls. Revolving doors on the fronts of New York Street try revolving. They muster up just enough energy to partially turn. But it’s plenty enough to scare any nearby trespasser. But this is the fun part, everything is alive inside here.

An Eskimo has no life– an igloo at the base of this old castle


I imagine security has a hard time, noise-wise on patrols. It’s like kids are everywhere. At nighttime, I bet the guards are even a touch frightened. Strange goings on take command of the landscape. Old, decrepit walls often blow over. Even the arch on Combat Street met its fate from a very strong wind recently. The weather finished off what W.W 2 couldn’t.

Rooftops are supreme on these windy afternoons, the views are sharp, clear and priceless. The keys to my imagination are engaged, the breeze of MGM’s past filters through my lungs and into my brain. I never want this moment to fade away. This magic is what life’s about!

The wind only enhances what is always here. The spirits use the opportunity to present their pent-up energy and flirt with us. A glimpse, a feeling, a hint of where they want us to go next. Whose memory are we chasing? Is it The Little Rascals? Or perhaps Laurel and Hardy. We often feel them here with us. The wind is a stimulant and makes my senses keen. Wild eyed and willing to follow wherever they push us.

I think Rod Serling probably did exactly what Jimmy and my other friends do on these special spirited days. The Lee Marvin episode, The Grave, about outlaw Pinto Sykes seems inspired by a MGM backlot on a windy night. “Hey- is that Lee over there, with Battling Maxo?”

Anything and everything has happened here, the wind simply turns back pages in the MGM history book. The wind creates sound from past troubadours and whips them into spinning shapes that appear as fast as they disappear. Each page is its own story. It is its own place. It is not linked to a clock. It is just a magical place built with extreme imagination.

Battling Maxo, fresh off the bus, Small Town Square-MGM lot 2, on skates no less. I’ve roller skated there too...

Writers often wander this lot for inspiration which can easily be drawn into their imaginations from these desolate villages. Every twist and turn is stirring in some way when you take a walk around this lot. You might jot down notes with a pencil and paper. Alternatively, you could talk into a cassette recorder. Many stories actually originate from inside here, from the backlot. It’s where they will be filmed so the saying, “You got to see it to be it”, applies here.

I’m caught in the MGM jet stream. It’s like I’m a character in a book or movie. The backlot will become my personal Genie in a Bottle, where all my wishes come true.

Curtains in ancient windows move about behind the dirty glass, like they’re exercising. Soon again, they will hang stagnant, like in a picture frame. But today is play day, like a ghostly, haunted Disneyland. Some fabrics dislodge from their present location with large gusts. They take flight back to the past, as if they are magic carpets. Romeo and Juliet’s balconies seem extremely active, as glass doors reverberate off the door jams. Eucalyptus trees bow under the pressure and leaves fly into the village below. The rustling trees blend in like musical instruments in the wind…

Doorways, rooftops, real windy-special effects

My best friend Jimmy and I enter today at the Grand Central Station, the train compartments are alive this afternoon. Curtains blow through windows that are open in these old Pullmans. They greet us by waving, full of exuberance, like an orient express. Everything on this lot is alive today with a little help…from the wind.

Next to the trains is the snow room, even the slightest breezes create blizzard-like conditions inside this old dungeon. We open the thick ancient door. We stare at a calm environment of stacked boxes. They face every direction and are packed with plastic snowflakes. A huge gust kicks this place back to life. It is as if Wizard Arnold Gillespie turned on a switch. I bet he’s in here laughing at us, MGM’s effects guru for four decades.

It’s windy and clear on the lot, but a snowstorm is underway in this storage facility. We shut the door and walk away from the weather effects we just created. No wind machines are needed today.

The first backlot cemetery I explored is located just beyond my original Hole in the Fence. It was also the first set I ever hid in. It is as spooky as any cemetery I’ve ever seen, day or night. A coffin sits waiting to be buried or maybe it was exhumed. I want to climb inside, but it has too many spiders, so I lay alongside the sarcophagus. Jimmy and I recreate our own graveyard scenes as blowing tumbleweeds bounce off tombstones. I laugh like a witch as Jimmy pretends to get killed. This is how we have fun. Watching TV shows and recreating cool scenes. We just happen to have our own graveyards.

We hide here often, the outskirts of a cemetery. It’s close to the fence on Elenda Street and the pool set. I was laying in the weeds for this picture- like a corpse.

Dirt blows into the sets adjacent to the many dusty roads that remind you you’re on an ancient lot. Most roads are dirt here. Cobblestone is the pavement of choice, except on New York Street. We often skateboard down the metropolis’ sidewalks, under the famous 5th Avenue marquees. Yes indeed, I’ve been chased on my skateboard. It’s plenty safe, faster than any guard, and portable to climb with. Tools of the advanced trespasser. The pavement here is smooth enough for a movie star…

I sing and dance in the rain on rainy days. It’s just around the corner on Waterfront Street. The sidewalk and street still exist long after the 1967 MGM New York Street fire. Gene likes baseball too, he’s a Pirates fan he told me- we have backlots in common.
Anything not anchored down takes on a life of its own.
The theater district on a stormy, windy day

New York Street is an orchestra on days like this. The rest of the lot is just a series of small clubs. This pales in comparison to all that takes place on this street of a thousand doors and windows. Today, we can slam doors if we wish, throw stealth out the window. We might as well have cymbals to smash together on large gusts. We try to imagine what we are hearing all around us, what sets have become active. So much is alive in this deserted, desolate landscape.

Look what the wind blew in...

The Bronco makes its first appearance of the day and drives slowly below us. A black sleeved left arm extends upward out of the window like the long arm of the law. The guard, Bronco Bob himself, clutches the top door of the vehicle. It safely passes by. He is unaware it has an audience above him.

“Will the wind ever remember the names it’s blown on in the past?” “Yes forever” they whisper to us; “the spirits will never leave here, and they enjoy your company”

The wind cries for Donnie, Jimmy and Maureen too-

Written and Lived by…Donnie Norden

My Female Side Kick at MGM

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Her friends call her Esther…I call her Maureen

Let’s Go Back Jack and Do it Again… There’s those old kids again they never stop climbing fences

Book signing at Sony – If MGM Guards could see us now. They are represented fondly in this book Maureen is holding.

I hear sirens , Hurry up and get this shot!

Huron Avenue, that’s my street, and all the kids who live on it know my new hobby… Trespassing MGM.

My helmets and ammo made a big impression. While playing Combat, I had a belt full of blank ammo shells and a fancy helmet. I had found the helmet in a building in German Village, when we first met.

Her backyard is France …1944. I was at war. While running through the neighbor’s yards, I met this girl while I was shooting other kids. Now, I just tolerate girls mind you. She is different. I think- I kind of fancy her, and her bombed out backyard!

I always thought she would have made a swell boy. Her name is Maureen. The prettiest girl around these parts, I find myself wanting to impress her. I want to show her around MGM,  but I am torn. Jimmy and I have an alliance that girls do not belong there. They would slow us down and they scare too easily.  Dare I say our first crush is MGM lot 2. I figure she will probably say “No” to trespassing anyway. I casually ask her if she would like to come with me. I offer fair warning: “I guess this is illegal.” She rubbed her hands together and said “Let’s Go.”

Understand, most of the boys are scared. The prettiest girl around is all in. That is, if she can climb.

Well this Saturday morning she strolled down to my house in comfortable pair of running shoes. We walk the tracks on the steel rails themselves, like a tight rope. When we arrive at the barb wire pole behind Grand Central station. I brief her. I fill her in on what to expect. We kick at the gravel alongside the rails. This is where the rubber meets the road, literally. If she climbs this successfully, it’s a good sign we will work out. She is dressed in cutoff jeans and a T shirt, not a whole lot of protective clothing. I am going to get a kick out of this!

” There you are, that’s the climb, I will go first, watch where I grab.” I say

I’m now inside as her pretty little head pops above the fence, followed by her pretty behind. The prettiest climb I have ever seen. Slow-motion, pretty, like a shampoo commercial. She jumps down and looks thrilled. I dampen her enthusiasm by letting her know she needs to do it faster … next time. Silently, I am Frigging impressed.

I first show her the trains. We sit in the plush but filthy seats and talk about things. We avoid sports and the army. We just talk about stuff. There is really nowhere we have to be…any set is cool. Somehow, I am relaxed. This is going well, this girl thing.

I feel brave and we cross the field to a building we named Boystown. We named it after seeing a movie that used it called- Girls Town. Jimmy and I changed it to Boystown, since we’re boys…

We find a bench on the bottom floor. I wanted to bring it up to the top of this building. We can sit and view the Tarzan lake from a nice high vantage point. She helps me get this bench up to the top of this 4-story maze. I couldn’t do it without her so she is already paying off.

She is covered with dust but she even looks prettier filthy. Plus, none of the guys smell this good. The first piece of furniture is in the new Penthouse fort we are building. The Red Bronco has come in, and does the the rounds, below us. We can see the main gate from here, that’s big. We know we are alone when the guard exits that main gate. Not sure when he comes back, but, he is gone now…we are alone.

Jane’s looking pretty good to me right now …up here, not wanted or being chased. She’s is an angle. She glows in this dim room. Sun beams direct themselves on her glittering blonde hair. Her blue eyes are silver. A strong attraction takes over. I release a Tarzan like yell projecting over her towards Tarzan Lake. It is powerful enough for the birds in the forest below to take flight…

I lead her down from this maze of a building. We run across a dirt road holding hands. So Romantic, we our overdressed for this party.

Then, we cross over the lake. on a tiny foot bridge. I have a row boat stashed with a couple of paddles, just above the pond edge in thick bushes. Aah, the perfect way to end this afternoon. We float around listening to a transistor radio playing 93 KHJ…Boss Top Thirty hits.

The Real, Don Steele. Charlie Tuna, Humble Harve and Robert W. Morgan spin classic vinyl on a classic lake. The prettiest girl I know framed by this exterior,

Jethro Tull’s hit song Bungle in the Jungle evokes a journey to the jungle. The lyrics take you across the green pond. You traverse under two bridges. Meanwhile, the sun slowly begins to sink into a blaze of orange blinding light.

This area is secluded and a guard would probably have to leave the vehicle to see us…that rarely happens. We even doze off as we sit low in the boat. Hazy sun reflects through the trees and off the water. The lake is the sky as clouds in the sky duplicate their image on the water, as do our faces. The lake is a giant mirror of its environment. A pair of ducks mingle around us, as does a bull frog. This lake is loaded with crawfish, minnows, and carp but more so than anything else- history!

This is like dream, this legendary place is my new backyard. And, I have a new friend to explore it with. We dock and step off into the jungle that is magical and gigantic. I step on a twig, as it snaps, a thousand birds took off like a Hitchcock movie.

That can work for us. I remind myself of this. If the birds suddenly take off, it’s a signal someone bad may be coming.

The only problem the lake has for us is that it is located in the middle of the lot. This means you have a long run from here to the fence if things go bad. Better off hiding, most likely. I am always thinking ways to keep ahead of my pursuers. Small stuff adds up. I’ll take any advantage I can.

We end our day hungry like typical teenagers, so climb out over an old green wood fence. Maureen is probably the dirtiest kid in town right now. Using lake water to clean up smeared dust and created mud. She looks like a native in war paint. and now she smells like an aquarium. There is just something magnetic about her…

We picked a spot not barbed to exit. Maureen has already earned an advanced climbing badge. I grade kids on my own set of expectations like an Iowa Test at school. swears she will someday pole vault this sharp obstacle.For now…she’s one pretty -pole dancer.

Donnie thinks he so tough…Guys are the biggest chickens! That fence is nothing…

 She runs over to her apartment. “Wait till she looks in the mirror. Good-by Jane,” I salute. She looks like she exited a Hollywood Movie.

I thought to myself as I was going to bed…”Girls aren’t so bad after all!” 

Maureen and nephew Chad… notice MGM in background…German village and China St.

Leon, you asked for more Maureen, who doesn’t. Try this on for size.

A typical day in the life in our private Disneyland…

Written and lived by Donnie Norden and Maureen Miller…

Behind the Scenes: Animal Actors at Universal

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“Welcome” from some of the most friendly stars in Hollywood.

It’s a Wild World- applies here. You may remember the Eagle that would take paper money from visitors hands and bring it back to the handler. That’s how we pay these guys…

Things to note; Three car Pink and White Glamour Trams, an open air Universal Amphitheater. and Castle Dracula towers above the theme park.

Lassie made this show famous. “He” had his own T.V series at Universal.

I was wrapping out a show one late Friday night. I ran into three escaped dogs on New York Street. They were taking their own guided tour. Because of predator dangers, I wrangled them up, put them in my vehicle, and security reunited them to their handlers.

Before it was an actor stage, we had a zoo. It was located behind Courthouse Square.

This guy is the biggest star and has been know to escape into the studio. He has a mind of his own.

Every Which Way but Loose… describes my animal tale.

Who’s the bigger Ham here? I say Erik!

I saw this scene filmed…This is Culver Blvd, my street corner. Erik and his Kawasaki are on back a trailer, attached to a camera truck.

Get me outta here…

“I love donuts” this was how my boss was confronted… face to face.

These actors never strike or complain…

In my career at Universal, I saw a lot of things. Early on, I worked as a tram driver. On this particular morning, drivers and guides were notified. An Orangutan was on the loose somewhere on the backlot. Apparently, it escaped its cage, located just behind the famous Universal City sign overlooking the San Fernando Valley. But the tram tour must go on, “Keep your eyes open,” was the orders issued. A manhunt was on, an all points bulletin that affects the entire studio.

A Dragnet was taking place, but no need to panic the public, act like it’s part of the tour. Animal trainers scoured the lot with tranquilizer guns, because this “most wanted” could kill you bare handedly. Not that he would. He’s a friendly beast. He works around the public all day performing at The Animal Actors Stage. When not guest starring in some movie or T.V show.

As if King Kong was loose, undercover operations vehicles scoured the backlot. The theme park had to be cleared first, because the paying public had to be provided a safe haven. That sequence took place before the park opened. He could be anywhere, on our 473 acre movie studio.

I was one of the first tours to embark that summer morning. I drop off guests at the I Love Lucy stage for a taste of Movie Magic. Videos of Robert Wagner welcome you. I take my empty tram back towards tram dispatch to grab another load of customers. As I drive behind our original Property Department, I notice it is full of ancient Chinese vases. Night Gallery Pictures from Rod Serling’s T.V series also fill the department. I see commotion on the hillside above. Branches snap and foliage disturbs in a jungle type setting. This setting connects the lower lot to tours. He is swinging vine to vine, like in a Tarzan Movie.

Our featured star was just playing in his own rain forest, having escaped from a barred, dank cell. Who can blame him really, I sadly called in his location and he was instantly apprehended without incident. He even performed at his 11 A.M showtime in the popular stage of unemployed movie animals. This show is their back up gig when not in front of the cameras.

The 90’s have arrived quickly. I am now an electrician. I am part of all production taking place on the lot. A de-ja-vue is taking place, I’ve seen this movie before. An orangutan is once again on the loose, this time it’s 5 A.M, as employees are arriving for work. A misty mountain fog permeates the parking area above the collapsing bridge animation. I was driving up to pick up my boss, Tony G. He arrives an hour after my call time. He parks on a steep hillside. It’s pitch dark, and the fog does not help. Shadows are what you see, not employees. Tony gets out of his truck and places donuts and coffee on the roof of his vehicle. Seeing a figure coming his way, he mistakes the shadow as another employee from our shop.

He locks his truck when he realizes, this is not an electrician, it’s an Orangutan. Like a Hitchcock thriller, he is face to face with something that could ruin his day. Tony quickly jumps back inside the cab of his truck. He leaves a dozen donuts and a cup of coffee on his roof. The Animal Actor approaches Tony through his car window. Tony is very frightened at this point. He has entered…The Jungle Book.

Call it Gorilla’s in the Mist if you will since we are Universal Studios. The lead actor has the lead boss in a quandary. The goodies on his rooftop entice our Orangutan star, who apparently likes donuts. Now the ape is feeding itself in the bed of Tony’s truck. The coffee gets poured out on the windows as Tony gets an up close and personal early morning star treatment. Our star, now with a sugar buzz, decides to go from car to car, looking for more pastry. Employees notify security who contact the animal handlers, who were once again on the hunt.

As they arrive with a tranquilizer gun in hand, the ape is snapping car antenna’s. Not in a mood for negotiating…”shots fired”

Our star is apprehended and life goes on as usual in this land of…Movie Magic!

My friend and former boss passed away today, April 26, 2025. Tony Grillo, a great man with many accomplishments. He helped me get the right job for me. He takes with him many great stories so I share this one with you guys on a sad day. R.I.P Tony, from all the guys who worked for you and with you….

Written and Lived by….Donnie Norden.

The Best of Culver City’s Backlot Stories: Wally’s Gas Station

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The last picture ever taken of this set. A set surrounded by dirt roads. Every show that came on this busy backlot had to pass by here. I will take your inside this set in this post. Very small but packed with history. Often this was the first set we would hide in briefly. It was 20 yards or so from the La Ballona creek. The creek was like a set and was when Thomas Ince was alive. The Army Core of Engineers paved the pristine tree lined location to control flooding in storms. MGM Lot 3 was down stream. When backlots flood, workers use row boats.

Wally’s filling station had a different location originally but was removed to build a bridge for Hogan’s Heroes. This new Wally’s is a Frisbee toss from and his future Barracks and Camp Henderson.

Not the same building. This is the original. Replaced to build a permanent set -The Bridge for Hogan’s Heroes. An episode of The Untouchables filmed at this original station. Night scene-Tommy Guns blazing- fire and explosions. The next day – had to erase all signs of carnage and mayhem for the simpler life in Mayberry. These two series used the backlot for 3 years – same time. Chicago/ Mayberry, Atlanta, Gotham City or just Superman’s Metropolis are cities once represented here. This is the most famous of all backlot ranches.

This set replaced Wally’s original Gas and Service station.

For perspective–Original Wally’s location, pictured on left, was replaced by Hogan’s Heroes Bridge. Picture on right highlighted-was Wally’s second location. Not moved-torn down. Rebuilt net to Camp Henderson. I’ve been chased along side the creek bed the entire length of the studio …and a bit beyond.

The gas station attendants on the let. Sheriff Taylor fueling up on right. Center is pre Gomer Pyle’s -Camp Henderson. Gomer would mover over one set-twenty yards as the crow flies-to his new home away from home and a set he would make famous for years to come.

This area would become-Camp Henderson. If you examine earlier trio of pictures-you can see reverse angle where Gomer has nozzle in his hands. Danny Thomas had bigger plans for Gomer-“his own series

Sunday- at the filling Station– “No reason to be in a hurry”

“JUST FIX IT!

“Your mileage may vary” – This sign was on this dirt road pictured left. I’m standing where the pumps would be for my color photo. Behind the eucalyptus trees that still exist today is the La Ballona Creek. Through those trees is where …”We’d Appear” Many adventures of mine start peeking through trees. You’re not trespassing until you reach dirt. You can run forever along that creek. Once, while getting ready to film something on the nearby western street, a guy in a suit of all things sees us- Jimmy is with me.

He starts chasing us…We cut through a village thinking he would stop but he didn’t. We continue running and slide down the embankment along side the creek. Certainly now he would stop-not the case. We are running as fast as we can and so is he. We are covering 40 acres of real estate, the longest stretch possible.

“Will this ever stop-who is this guy” like a Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid moment. Running scared and out of breath -pure adrenaline now-Jimmy is ahead of me, the suit guy is getting closer. Finally as we get to a bridge at the very East end of Culver City- he terminates his pursuit. I have never had a guard chase me that far- he is dressed to nice to be a guard. We will never know who this guy was -but talk about a run for your life! We decided not to go back inside that afternoon a face this Super Hero again. We were only in there for 5 minutes– but the chase lasted 10!…Buzz Kill

No more Wally- a new CEO. Goober. While Gomer films right across a tiny dirt road. So close, it has to be blocked, almost always by an oversized vehicle–Shazam, my own series …

Not the same Soda Machine that greeted us- seems to be standing on a furniture dolly. Fire extinguisher was missing but would later- turn out to be needed! A car or truck can be seen here parked over a pit used to change oil. Sitting in those chairs, you would be looking at Camp Henderson, beyond the gas pumps.

Behind that military box trucks is Gomer’s old filling station job. He becomes a Marine. He becomes as big a star as any of the actors on The Andy Griffith show. The ratings on this show were always top 10. You didn’t want to be slotted up against this show. Star Trek was knocked off the air when slotted on different channel -same time. Ronnie Schell-Duke Slater had nothing but love for Jim Nabors. Jim moved on to Variety shows. Everything he touched was gold.

Speaking of Gold – a shipment passed through here in a “top secret’ transport. A fantastic backlot episode.

Boot camp is rough but it’s an honor to serve our flag and this country. I trespassed with real Marines. They all tripped out being on a set of the most famous ‘Marine’ in Hollywood. This series motivated young men into service. Fittingly, Mr. Nabors is an honorary Marine- Full Corporal. When it was on the air- Vietnam was a live war, you could be drafted- for perspective of time. I loved Sargent Carter, he was the perfect fit to offset Gomer’s silly personality.

Add Ronnie Schell and Ted Bessel. You have a series that is as popular today. It is viewed more than in the past. The show wasn’t canceled because of low ratings. A purge took place of great T.V all over Hollywood. My biggest thrill was spending an afternoon at Camp Henderson with Ronnie Schell. He played out what it was like to be on this series.

He also described life in general at Desilu. We sat in his car exactly on the spot of the barracks. I watched his eyes glaze over as he looked around at what is now an industrial park. To think of the things he saw 60 years ago, it reflected on his face and in his soul. Who would have thought a trespassing kid would become a carrier of the TV Land Torch.

Did you know-this dog can talk?- Just ask Opie Taylor.

Trouble Makers…

In 1966, Goober went on vacation and the station never did better…In 1965 -Color T.V episodes begin…

In 1967, Goober held a raffle to pick up business–Aunt Bee-is a winner- “Oh Boy” says an excited Opie

Pictures attach to the night of the gas station fire disaster– Area where fire started King of Kings set. Built in 1927. In this picture, Andy Griffith wasn’t on the air. There was no gas station yet. It would be added on the left side very close to this set. Eucalyptus trees separated the two sets. I had a great fort in that village. Used in Harum Scarum, yes Elvis Presley was in my fort, before me…

The village that burned this night-Elvis is running up stairway-picture on right is in picture below. Behind that stairway is Goober’s filling station. Imagine Elvis visiting Mayberry -it happened in real life.

“What a Great Place for a fort!” says Elvis

“Check the tires-filler up please”… Elvis’s Trailer was parked here at Goobers in 1967 while filming Harum Scarum.

Time to go inside the filling station on a warm summer day…

When I first set foot here- the set dressing still existed although the series was over.

We start by climbing up an embankment in the La Ballona Creek. We stop at the summit and peek through eucalyptus trees. We aren’t trespassing yet, cross the dirt road in front of us and anything goes. Where the rubber of our tennis shoes meets the dirt roads once used in Gone with the Wind.

Jimmy and I’s options start here – Camp Henderson provides cover as does this tempting filling station. Refrigerated Soda Pop sits inside a red ice chest. We have gas pumps and of course we pretended to pump gas to invisible cars. A cigarette machine offers fine packs of tobacco. After all, this is fictitiously Carolina. Still, it is located in Culver City. The eucalyptus trees along the road leading up to pumps still stand as they did then. Living Monuments to a wonderful past. They stood tall over every episode.

Open the filling station door and what do you see, dirt on the floor, no floor boards exist. 5 people barely can squeeze in here conga line style. I know families with bigger closets than this station. Motor Oil can be bought and a rack greets you through the front window. Jimmy and I check out these empty quarts of lubricant quickly learning everything is fake. There is no gas in pumps. There is no STP Oil in cans wrapped generically. There is no air for tires. There is no cold soda pop on this summer day. There are no Mayberry Lucky Strike Cigarettes in the tobacco machine of fake cartons to take home to dad. Early lesson learned -nothing is real here-entirely illusions. Everything here is like a magic act-just smoke a mirrors- abracadabra !

It’s musty inside, no interior walls, the wood outer walls are what frames the inside, except with out paint. Filming has to always take place from doorway going outward, inside, no counters or cash registers. The big glass front window is covered with dust, it has been awhile since the windows have been cleaned. The other window is on the front door.Each window, looking outward views the pumps and beyond to-Camp Henderson. Cobwebs cover the ceiling.

You expect at any moment George Lindsey or Jim Nabors to walk by. Or perhaps Opie Taylor will ride up on his bike. Or maybe a car in need of repair, like “The Man in a Hurry.” That is a great episode that uses the entire backlot and actually drives home a point. “Slow your roll” be in the moment to get the riches of the Universe. Jimmy and I are two young boys…Not in a Hurry

All this is not negative, just factual. Nothing fancy greets you. Powerful images from all the years of filming here start dominating our brains. They spool out memories. Jimmy and I soak in past, rapid firing different scenes and episodes. This is an easy way to go back in time

In between the garage and station lies a pit for the attendant to stand in. This pit is used so car’s oil can be changed. Opie once jumped over this in a scene -so of course, we do to. To a kid – it seems like the thing to do. We watch reruns of this show everyday. This gas station always is used, but never this pit, maybe it was dug for one episode, we ponder. At night, take note of this-or you may fall in. We have chase games around here, this is a slick place to lose your pursuer, in a dark hole.

Just a couple weeks ago in a chase game, I was running as fast as I can. It was a pitch dark Saturday night. I was running from an older boy. He had to tag me to capture me. I was running down the sidewalk at full speed in downtown Mayberry. I was running from the Mayberry Hotel towards the courthouse. I hear a thump and an instant groan.’ My friend Mario was just a couple feet from my tail. He got plastered by a metal protruding sign holder extending from where Emmit’s Fix It Shop stands. I was lucky to have missed being the victim here. I didn’t see it-it has no sign on it, just a metal rod.

Mario lays on the pavement groaning in pain with a very long 9 iron cut across his forehead. He has a concussion, he takes awhile to come to his senses. Just a reminder, there are a “million ways to die” at this old studio ranch. On some nights, you experience several. Boys will be boys!

This set, as did most of this lot-died a fiery death. These stories are in my books, book two, The Uninvited Visitor, will put a fire hose in your hand.

The past meets the current on this corner…

One night after almost every set was destroyed in one way, shape, or form. We were riding around when we saw flames. We just walked out of a liquor store that served basically this studio. The location is next door to a famous bar. The bar is used often in film. It is across the street from a Chevron Station that served this studio on Ince Blvd. Located next to an Ice Company and Laundry Matte that served this studio. Costumes used in epic films get cleaned here. The Paramount Laundry is etched in cement above the door. Ice is used for several reasons. It can be bought in truckloads here. It can be shaved and used as ground snow. It can be used with fans to cool things down on hot. Non air conditioned stages need fans. I have found ice picks in dressing rooms that were once used by stars.

The Culver Hotel overlooks the iconic plantation building. Thomas Ince built it. It was the center of this ancient studio. Lucy and Desi Arnaz would occupy this office space in the TV years. Times were different back then. The business outside the fences provided some service or just an escape from filming. Stars can be found here walking public streets.

Studio Spirits Road…Desi drank at this most legendary bar that has a tunnel to the Culver Hotel, used in prohibition times. I saw “That Girl ” in a phone booth in the Chevron Station on Ince Blvd. There was a line waiting outside the phone booth’s glass folding door. She talks emphatically with her hands trying to describe things. A stack of tires and real motor stands next to the repair garage, next to this booth. The next closest gas station is Goobers. Real stuff, not fake stuff, like at Wally‘s, can be purchased here.

The sky is burning…

We exit this liquor store with bags of candy. I have a Mars Bar and Fritos. As we mount up prepared for a sugar high, the sky above is turning a bright orange. We figure right away… Desilu is on fire…again.

We quickly race down Ince Blvd and see a huge fire. The main gate is locked, the fire department can be heard responding, but are not here yet. As the fire department arrives, as they cut the lock on the main gate, they are responding to an inferno. Before they can pump water a large two section collapses before our eyes. Sparks fly skyward, some disappear forever while others land in dangerous high risk areas. Many citizens have followed the firemen inside, this isn’t the first fire off Lucerne, the side street closest by. Some residents here were on the street when “Atlanta” burned in 1938. I found this out much later in- Gone with the Wind.

The lot is scheduled for demolition, this is the last action ever on the backlot. A fire engine stations itself at Goober’s at the filling station and begins pumping water on the flames. The King of Kings Set, built in 1927 by Cecil B. DeMille, is next to collapse, as if being directed by the “Man Himself.”

The fire spreads to the gas station. It has water being pumped on it and never delivered even a gallon of gas. That too collapses. Fire Department is in contain mode, so burning embers do not light the Baldwin Hills that overlook this studio. Stray tiny fires from embers are quickly extinguished by Flashing Red Light landscape.

The filling station falls backwards and downwards spewing even more sparks as it disappears forever. No one here feels the connection I have with this simply constructed facade. This is as much a friend as it is a building. It’s like if my bedroom burned down. As spectacular as this is, the ramifications are-it will never be again !

The Day After…

Basically, the landscape is several different fires, earlier fires already destroyed the neighboring Western Street. Saloon has been gone for months. I lost my Harum Scarum Fort in this last fire. I have one fort left here in an isolated location. That’s why it still stands. A pond surrounds the front and rolling green vegetation keep risk down. That fort is also known as the Mayberry R.F.D House stands.

Mayberry R.F.D House– left -set standing “safely” at Desilu. My fort “where Elvis entered” is up that stairway-pictured right. Behind this set is Goober’s Filling Station. This building collapsed igniting America’s Favorite Filling Station.

Mayberry itself is a skeleton. The Church Fire destroyed that area months ago. It’s Ghostly here. Spirits are still here just because the sets are gone or in desperate need of …love!

This fire is almost fitting for a backlot best known for fires. This finally “if you will” is a Gone with the Wind moment. Fire made this backlot famous with the Burning of Atlanta in 1938, in 1976 fire concludes its part of history. All that remains is now ash.

Farewell my backlot, a blaze of glory has taken you to a better place. Until we meet again. I will watch all the reruns. It’s like I’m still that “Uninvited Visitor” who grew up in this place.

For this story and many more -Read my books available on Amazon.

A footnote -this was the last ever backlot fire in Culver City…In August, 1976, No sets remained. A dirt 40 acre lot blows away in clouds of dust as do tumbleweeds headed somewhere else. A final sound of …Silence

Written and lived by …Donnie Norden