If you've ever wondered why there are no homes or buildings anywhere near the Hollywood sign, there's a reason for that. Howard Hughes purchased 138 acres near the sign in 1940 with the intention of building a home. It never happened, but he remained the land owner. His estate ended up selling the land in 2002, and movie studios, actors, and various foundations raised over $12 million to purchase it from the investment firm and keep it as protected parkland.