A Community Landmark in Need of Serious Repair and Maintenance

Statement from Citizens’ Coalition for Change

The King Memorial at the Compton Civic Center is not simply a public art installation. It is one of the most distinctive and recognizable civic symbols of the City of Compton — a landmark representing reflection, unity, architectural vision, and the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

For nearly five decades, the memorial has stood as the focal point of the Compton Civic Center plaza, anchoring the visual identity of the Civic Center and serving as a place for gathering and contemplation.

Today, however, this important monument is clearly in need of serious repair and maintenance.

Historical and Architectural Significance

The King Memorial was created in 1978 by sculptor Gerald Gladstone and commissioned by Los Angeles County and the City of Compton Civic Center Authority. It is part of the Los Angeles County Arts Commission Civic Art Collection.

Originally designed and conceived as a fountain, the monument was intended to feature a dramatic 70-foot stream of water shooting through its center. Constructed of concrete and bronze, the structure derives its symbolic power from its simplicity and clean, straight lines.

Arranged in a harmonious circular form, multiple identical white panels rise at varying angles and meet at a central circular element. The work evokes the form of a mountain — reflecting Dr. King’s own words:

“I’ve been to the mountaintop.”

The Civic Center’s architect, Harold L. Williams — one of the early licensed African-American architects in Los Angeles — envisioned the space as one that projected openness, dignity, and community. Surrounded by planters and benches, the memorial was designed as a place to sit, reflect, and consider Dr. King’s philosophy and global impact.

It remains one of the defining visual emblems of Compton.

Current Condition: Visible and Concerning Deterioration

After nearly 50 years of exposure to sun, wind, and weather, the memorial now shows clear and significant signs of wear:

• Paint has peeled extensively across multiple surfaces

• Bare metal is exposed in several locations

• The entire sculpture requires comprehensive repainting

• Sections of the concrete platform show cracking and surface deterioration

• The memorial plaque describing the artwork has been stolen

• The plaque has not yet been replaced

The absence of the descriptive plaque is particularly unfortunate, as it removes important historical and artistic context for visitors and residents alike.

These conditions are not unusual for a monument of this age — but they do indicate that restoration is now necessary.

Why Restoration Matters

Public art is not merely decorative. It is identity.

The King Memorial is frequently photographed, visited, and recognized as a signature landmark of the city. It anchors civic life at the heart of local governance. When such a prominent symbol begins to show visible deterioration, it affects how the space is perceived — by residents and visitors alike.

Restoration is not about assigning fault. It is about stewardship.

This monument represents:

• The legacy and message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

• The artistic contribution of Gerald Gladstone

• The architectural vision of Harold L. Williams

• The cultural and civic identity of Compton

Preserving it reflects care for our shared history and pride in our public spaces.

Practical and Achievable Steps Forward

Citizens’ Coalition for Change respectfully encourages the following actions:

1. Full surface restoration and professional repainting

2. Inspection and treatment of all exposed metal elements

3. Structural assessment and repair of the concrete platform

4. Replacement of the missing memorial plaque

5. Secure mounting of the plaque to prevent future theft

6. Restoration and ongoing maintenance of surrounding landscaping, including trimming, replanting where necessary, and improving the overall condition of greenery

7. Establishment of a recurring maintenance and preservation schedule for both the sculpture and the plaza environment

These are standard preservation measures for a 1978 commemorative sculpture and are both reasonable and achievable.

A Shared Civic Responsibility

The King Memorial was designed to project strength, harmony, and open space — a physical reflection of Dr. King’s message of unity and aspiration.

With thoughtful restoration, it can once again stand with the clarity and dignity originally intended by its artist and architect.

Citizens’ Coalition for Change believes that caring for our public landmarks is a shared civic responsibility. By addressing these needed repairs, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving Compton’s history, honoring its symbols, and maintaining the integrity of our civic spaces for future generations.

Respectfully,

Citizens’ Coalition for Change