On Thursday, November 21, the City of Santa Ana celebrated the unveiling of the Warren Bussey Square ceremonial street sign at the intersection of Walnut Street and Pacific Avenue. The sign honors the legacy of Warren Bussey, who opened the first Black-owned business in Santa Ana, and his tireless dedication to fostering a more inclusive, vibrant, and empowering city.
Councilmember Johnathan Ryan Hernandez and Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez led the unveiling, which was attended by a crowd of Mr. Bussey’s family, friends and neighbors.
Born in Texas in 1913, Warren Bussey lived a life dedicated to service, hard work, and community empowerment. He served in World War II before establishing Bussey Maintenance in 1948, a janitorial service that not only provided employment opportunities for veterans but also supported marginalized communities. Bussey made history in 1955 by opening Jimmy’s Café, the city’s first Black-owned business, marking a milestone in the fight for economic empowerment and racial equality. In addition to his entrepreneurial efforts, Bussey was a key figure in the Masonic community, achieving the 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason in 2015, and was honored with the title of Honorary Past Master in 2014.
After 44 years of outstanding work, Bussey eventually retired in 1984 at the age of 71. Bussey continued his work in community service, inspiring generations with his leadership and commitment to civic engagement. Mr. Bussey passed away in 2022 at the age of 108. The day of the sign unveiling would have been his 110th birthday.
The City of Santa Ana Ceremonial Street-Naming program commemorates individuals, groups, or events that have made significant cultural, humanitarian, or historic contributions to Santa Ana. The program includes the installation of street sign toppers bearing the honoree’s name, a symbolic gesture that does not alter the official street name but highlights the profound impact these individuals or events have had on the community.
Visit this page for more details about Warren Bussey’s life and other Honorary Street Names.
Learn about requesting a Ceremonial Street Sign Topper.
Find photos from the Warren Bussey Square ceremony here.