When Harry Culver established this city, he made his intent clear. Culver City emerged as a balanced community, a place where families could live and work. Commercial ventures thrived and supported the community. The early city trustees accomplished that in many ways from its Sept. 20, 1917 incorporation. Culver’s foresight to entice filmmaker, Thomas Ince, to establish a new movie studio in this city was just one part of his plan for the city’s road to success.
The City of Culver City became “The Heart of Screenland.” Culver’s planned location, with a temperate climate and accessible transportation routes was a draw. People enjoyed living here — for many reasons. Throughout its history, Culver City grew, established its own city government, with award-winning police and fire departments, school district, and it boasted accessible elected officials. Culver City became known for its parks.
Through thick and thin, the city worked to take care of its own—The Chamber of Commerce began work before the city actually incorporated and the CC Woman’s Club was the first in a long learn of community “service” organizations. Culver City emerged during World War I, made it through the “Great Depression,” and grew again after World War II ended. Helms Bakeries gave us wonderful aromas—foodstuffs “Daily at your door.” The Hayden Tract became the first industrial tract after WWII, and it has reinvented itself to be “current.” Fiesta La Ballona began in 1951 to celebrate local heritage as a community.
Redevelopment started as a necessity in 1971, and look at us now! We are known for our thriving restaurant scene. We boast two major movie studios and many support services, retail continues to grow, and people move to Culver City because they feel safe and want their children to attend Culver City schools. A historical society was proudly formed in 1980 to preserve our rich history.
As we begin this Centennial Celebration year, doesn’t this the early ad of the Harry H. Culver Co. say it all?
Julie Lugo Cerra has been the CC Council-appointed City Historian for Culver City since 1996. She has written six books, the most recent being a coffee-table book, “Culver City, the First Hundred Years” published by the Culver City Chamber of Commerce.