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 »»
WEST HOLLYWOOD HISTORIES
ORIGINS
1864: Greek George Caralambo and His Camels Settled in Melrose Place
FACT CHECK
The Truth Behind This Photo of Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald
DEMOLISHED
1914 The showplace Dodge House on Kings Road was demolished in 1970.
1940s DRAG
Shows seven days a week on La Brea Avenue from 1941 to 1951
MOBSTERS
1944: The mother of all celebrity brawls Read More
DISCOVERED
1942: Lena Horne Discovered in a Strip nightspot
SUNSET STRIP LANDMARKS
