Montrose in Glendale in Los Angeles County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

Abe’s Lock and Key

Thompson Court

— Historic Montrose - est. 1913 —

Abe’s Lock and Key Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Craig Baker, January 15, 2026

1. Abe’s Lock and Key Marker

Inscription.
For many years, a shack stood in the alley next to the Reinhart Bldg. Originally a shoe shine shop with a key business on the side, this became Abe's Lock and Key, owned and operated by Abe Goudeau, the first man of color to own a business in Montrose. He could not, however, live in the Crescenta Valley because racial covenants prevented most properties from being sold to non-Caucasians.

Erected by Montrose Shopping Park Association, Historical Society of the Crescenta Valley, and Boy Scout Troop 317.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Industry & Commerce.

Location. 34° 12.313′ N, 118° 13.55′ W. Marker is in Glendale, California, in Los Angeles County. It is in Montrose. It is at the intersection of Honolulu Avenue and Thompson Court, on the right when traveling west on Honolulu Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 2217 Honolulu Ave, Montrose CA 91020, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Greater Los Angeles

and in the Transverse

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Ranges.

It is also on the American Pacific Coast.

Globally, it is in North America,

on the Ring of Fire,

in the Pacific Rim,

in the Western Hemisphere,

in the Western World,

and in the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain

and also Mexico’s Alta California.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Gelsinger's (here, next to this marker); Reinhart Building (a few steps from this marker); Potts Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Rocky Cola Café (within shouting distance of this marker); Montrose Founding (within shouting distance of this marker); Glendale and Montrose Railway (within shouting distance of this marker); Safeway (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Shopping Bag (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Glendale.

Photographed by Craig Baker, January 15, 2026

2. Abe’s Lock and Key Marker

The marker lays flat in the landscaping.

Credits. This page was last revised on February 10, 2026. It was originally submitted on January 28, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 32 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 28, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.