H.J. Whitley played a crucial role in transforming Hollywood into a burgeoning film industry epicenter in 1911. He actively promoted Hollywood and provided the necessary infrastructure; Whitley created an environment that attracted filmmakers to the area. His vision and business shrewdness were instrumental in laying the foundation for Hollywood's future as the world's entertainment capital. Whitley's efforts to develop the area began much earlier. In 1886, he purchased 480 acres of land in what would become Hollywood. He invested in infrastructure, including roads, train lines, and utility connections, to make the area attractive for development. Whitley also built on Hollywood and Highland boulevards the Hollywood National Bank and Hollywood Hotel, which became a popular gathering place for industry titans like Jesse Lasky, Carl Laemmle, Louis B. Mayer, and Harry Warner.

HJ Whitley's development map in Hollywood & Whitley's House in lower corner is where the First Hollywood movie studio filmed on October 26, 1911.

The Hollywood Hotel, originally named Hotel Hollywood, was opened in December 1902 by H.J. Whitley, known as the "Father of Hollywood.