The Button Hole Rededication Ceremony – Recap
The Button Hole" was created when Stonewood Mall was built back in 1958.
Mr. Wallace C. Button lived in the neighborhood north of the property, on Clancey Ave. and it had been his habit for many years to walk through the property as part of his daily exercise. When Stonewood was built, Mr. Button requested that a break in the wall was left so that his walking routine was allowed to continue. And his request was granted!
When Mr. Button died in 1969, his fellow Rotarians, friends and neighbors, decided to honor his memory with a plaque that was placed on the wall at the opening officially designating it as "The Button Hole".
One of those Rotarians was Harold Tseklenis. Harold was also actively involved in the Downey community. In 2010, he co-founded the Downey Conservancy with George Redfox.
At some time in 2016 or 17, it came to the Conservancy's attention that the Button Hole plaque had been stolen. Harold undertook the task to replace it. He sought the help of the Rotarians, but due to various circumstances, was unable to complete the project before he died in 2019.
Our board decided that we would complete Harold's work to replace the plaque, but we also had a few stumbling blocks along the way. We persevered and our new plaque was finally installed. Downey sign installer, Chris Tassos of Preferred Impressions Sign & Display, kindly donated his installation services.
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023 we rededicated "The Button Hole" in a special ceremony. Members of the city council and Stonewood Center staff, along with our board, the Tseklenis family and members of the public gathered together to remember and celebrate two wonderful Downey gentlemen, Wallace Button and Harold Tseklenis.
We asked Harold's widow, Anna, and their son, David, to officially unveil the new plaque.
Our Rededication Ceremony and our hearts were filled with Downey history, pride, and love!
"The Button Hole" is located at the intersection of Cecilia St. and Clancey Ave.
Photography by Estevan Studio