On March 28, 1960, the first permanent star was laid on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This first star honored the legendary film producer and director Stanley Kramer and was placed near the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Gower Street.
The idea for the Walk of Fame began in 1953. E.M. Stuart, who was the volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce at the time. The purpose of the project, as Stuart said, is to “maintain the glory of a community whose name means glamour and excitement.”
Some believe the concept originated at the Hollywood Hotel, which once featured stars on its dining room ceiling, painted with the names of famous celebrities. Others suggest it was inspired by a local restaurant’s menu that used gold stars to frame photos of famous patrons…