Buttons tell a story
The Butler Area Public Library is offering a unique exhibit through June and July in which an everyday object can tell stories through the centuries.
“Button Collecting — A fun hobby for everyone” was installed in the library’s second-floor showcases by Ken and Nancy McKeever of the Keystone Button Club.
The McKeevers make it clear that the buttons on display are not the pin-backed type with messages on political candidates, sports teams or social issues.
The collection features the sewn-on buttons for functional or ornamental use on everyday or ceremonial clothing.
The McKeevers said while buttons have been in use since ancient times, the most common collectible buttons were manufactured between the 18th century and modern times.
“Whether used for fastening baby’s shoes in 1850 or for an admiral’s uniform during World War II, each button has a story to tell about its owner, its manufacturer and the times in which it was used,” Ken McKeever said.
Nancy McKeever said buttons have been carved, painted, inlaid and laser etched, and depending on their time period, have been made of metal, glass, horn, shell, fabric, wood and synthetic polymers.
“Nearly every notable fashion or event of the last 200 years has been celebrated with buttons,” she said.
Button-collecting groups can be found in several states, and a national group — the National Button Society — exists as well.
The Keystone Button Club meets from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the last Saturday of each month from January through October at Pleasant Unity United Presbyterian Church In Tarentum.
More details on the club are available at keystonebuttonclub.com.
