In February 1921, The Western Association of Motion Picture Advertisers (Wampas) was formed - made up of press agents for the various motion picture studios and is recalled primarily for its (mostly) annual selection of (usually) 13 Baby Stars. "One of the most highly-prized honours which a rising young screen actress can win is to be elected a Wampas Baby Star. It was formed in 1920 to exploit the press agents of the picture industry as a group and to make them an integral part of the business. The baby star idea was to gain recognition for the organization, but we also had an altruistic motive in that we felt there were many capable youngsters in Hollywood who deserved to be brought to the producer's attention."
Seven of the lucky thirteen from 1928 are draped over the car above and if you look at this close up picture, perhaps you can identify the girls from this list of faces. Or if you prefer individual portraits then scroll down this page. We think we can spot Molly O'Day (at the wheel) and Sue Carol 2nd from left? - but we know you will put names to all seven.
Other cars were used in publicity shots for these glamorous girls and 1927 Wampas Babe Natalie Kingston is pictured in the 1927 Jackman Special with special 'Rajo' Ford head.
Kingston was lucky and enjoyed a successful career, but many Wampas stars saw their careers fizzle out after the initial publicity.
(Text Robin Batchelor, archive pictures)