Downey Conservancy unveils historic artifacts from Stonewood Mall

Mario Trujilo, Dan Warren, Diana Gutierrez and Claudia M. Frometa at the exhibit of artifacts from the Stonewood Mall when it opened on Tuesday, March 4. (Photo by Vince Medina)

DOWNEY — A new exhibit showcasing historic artifacts from the Stonewood Mall is now on display at the Downey City Library, through a partnership between the Downey Conservancy and local officials.

The exhibit, curated by the Downey Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation, tells the story of Stonewood Mall’s evolution through a collection of photographs, plaques and memorabilia recovered from the mall’s underground gym.

Originally an open shopping center, the mall transitioned to a modern enclosed design in the 1990s. Among the preserved artifacts are miniature models depicting the original layout, and photographs of past store openings.

Conservancy board member, Diana Gutierrez, said her fellow board member, Dan Warren, was approached about salvaging historical items from the abandoned underground gym about four months ago.

“We wanted to preserve these pieces of Downey’s history and display them for the public,” said Gutierrez. “Many people remember the original Stonewood Mall, and this exhibit brings back those memories.”

The artifacts include promotional materials including a varsity sweater patch from Downey High School, and even a Sears “Wish Book” catalog from 1961. The display also includes the explanation for how the Stonewood Mall received its name with the street signs of Firestone Boulevard and Lakewood Boulevard, where the center is located.

Library Administrator, Dan Martin, said displaying the history of the Stonewood Center was perfect timing for the library and great for the community.

“We just finished up an exhibition with art classes in our workshop, where adult students who were taking classes had gone home and used the techniques to do their own art at home,” said Martin. “We were happy to lend the space to the conservatory, and any organization that represents some aspect of Downey.”

The exhibit will remain at the library for approximately a month before being moved somewhere long-term. Conservancy members hope to establish a dedicated space for Downey’s historical artifacts.

City officials, including city councilmember Claudia M. Frometa, district four, and community members have expressed support for the conservancy’s efforts.

“For those of us that have been here for decades, seeing our old Stonewood Mall is nostalgic, and exhibits like today are a reminder of the criticality of investing in the preservation of Downey history,” said Frometa.

While discussions continue about the future of these historical artifacts, the exhibit at the library remains open to the public.