George E. Read, Inc.

George E. Read was a notable real estate developer and entrepreneur in Los Angeles during the 1920s and 1930s. He played a pivotal role in shaping upscale neighborhoods in Beverly Hills, particularly the Beverly Crest area. In 1923, he acquired an 80-acre property in the Santa Monica Mountains and transformed it into the Beverly Crest community, which he marketed as a scenic and exclusive residential enclave. This area became a sought-after destination for Hollywood stars and affluent individuals.

Read was known for his innovative marketing strategies, which included producing detailed maps that highlighted the homes of motion picture celebrities. These maps not only served as real estate promotional tools but also tapped into the growing public fascination with Hollywood’s elite, making them some of the earliest examples of celebrity home maps. His developments, such as Beverly Estates and Beverly Terrace, were designed with modern infrastructure like paved streets and underground utilities, appealing to wealthy buyers seeking luxurious lifestyles.