The first non-native settlers in future West Hollywood were a Tunisian camel driver and his small herd of camels.
Purchasing agents of the US Army recruited “Greek George” Carlamabo in Tunisia where they purchased the camels as transport in America’s new western territories.
George and other cameleers drove half the camels were taken to Los Angeles. In 1864, George brought a half dozen of them to live on a small ranch near present-day Melrose Place, becoming the first known residents of today’s West Hollywood. More »»