Nellie of Lundy: From Hollywood to the High Sierra

Nellie Bly O'Bryan came to Hollywood in 1917 and worked as the first woman movie projectionist. Mentored by Charlie Chaplin, she became a silent film star. Nellie "escaped" Hollywood by moving to the Eastern High Sierra in 1939. She built her own cabin, survived solo winters, opened a resort at Lundy Lake, became a licensed Hunting and Fishing Guide, and built the "Upside Down House," a famous tourist attraction. She wrote about those personal adventures and promoted the region in her essays and short fiction stores. Nellie had worked on this book for many years, but passed away in 1984. These stories and insights from a fascinating life are gathered together, at last .