Around Hollenbeck Palms

Irving and the Slipper Chair

By popular demand, here's another Irving adventure!

PopPop's decorative artist pal Irving was recently distracted on his way to supper as he passed a particularly beautiful lady's chair. Join him for a quick design history lesson before the soup gets cold.

What Can Slinky Be?

The granddaughters attempt to give their Bubbe a Slanket, which prompts the ageless question, "What can Slinky be?" But will PopPop okay this potentially dangerous wife wrapper? Tune in to the latest installment of the OGs Blog for the shocking truth.


Hollenbeck Memorial Chapel, 1908


Today, the OGs bring you a rare glimpse inside one of the most beautiful unknown buildings in Los Angeles, the 1908 Chapel erected in honor of young John Edward Hollenbeck, Jr. (1854-1857) by his mother, the philanthropist Elizabeth Hollenbeck.


The Hollenbecks made their fortune in Nicaragua, and sought to protect their only son from the rigors of jungle life by sending him to live with his paternal grandparents in Pecatonica, Illinois. But the child was stricken with diphtheria there, and died, aged two and a half. Mail between the US and Central America was poor, and it was not until the Hollenbecks arrived in New York on their way to see their son that they learned the news of his death.

In a letter written 1876, Elizabeth Hollenbeck told a friend "Many years have passed since we were called upon to hear the painful loss of our boy and there has been an aching void in my heart ever since."


In 1908, when her son would have been 54, Elizabeth Hollenbeck dedicated a non-denominational chapel in the neo-classical style, decorated with cherubs, stained glass and fluted columns, to the memory of her child. This miniature gem is the last surviving historic structure on the grounds of Hollenbeck Palms, the home for the elderly founded by Mrs. Hollenbeck in 1890 on the land surrounding her residence.

Still Life with Mrs. Hollenbeck

Still Life with Mrs. Hollenbeck

The Secret of 73 Years of Marriage

They have enjoyed nearly three quarters of a century as lovebirds, so you'd be foolish not to heed The OGs' advice for how to make a marriage work. Tune in to discover exactly how Barbara and Harry have kept their love alive. Hint: there are two magic words every husband should know.


The Ukulady Sings The OGs Theme Song

On Sunday, November 9, a delightful young singer-songwriter Thessaly Lerner (aka The Ukulady) paid a visit to the OGs to learn some choice tidbits about their lives that could be woven into a theme song. Just 24 hours later, the delightful original tune was completed. Oh wow, oh gee, it's the OGs! Just click the arrow to enjoy the The OGs Theme Song by The Ukulady.


Poppop on Fine Art

Walking down the halls of Hollenbeck, Poppop sees many beautiful paintings: landscapes, seascapes, still lives and architectural studies. But some works of art possess hidden secrets. What strange mysteries lurk in the image of an old horse on a cobbled street? Join Poppop for the surprising answers.


Live from Boyle Heights

The OGs introduce themselves, and get a wee bit hung up on the nomenclature.


Let's Meet the OGs

Barbara and Harry Cooper are a nice Jewish couple who've moved back to the old neighborhood--to L.A.'s first retirement community, Hollenbeck Palms. Of course, Boyle Heights has changed a bit, but these two don't mind. We've enjoyed the wit, wisdom and weirdness of our grandparents for our whole lives, and think it's high time the rest of the world got a chance. The OGs blog promises all Barbara and Harry, all the time. Tune in for a daily dose.


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