Compton, CA is a city that has been famously depicted in rap music as a rough and tough place. But beyond its gritty reputation lies a vibrant community with a deep spiritual culture. Here are some of the best places to explore if you want to experience the soulful side of Compton:
1. Greater Zion Church Family (2408 North Wilmington Ave, Compton, CA 90222) This church has been an essential part of the African American community in Compton for over 90 years. The churchs founder was even mentored by Martin Luther King Jr! They have multiple services on Sundays, including gospel choir performances that electrify everyone present.
2. Sri Ranganatha Temple (8/F5/F Washington Blvd, Pico Rivera, CA 90660) Although not located directly in Compton proper but only around twenty minutes drive away from it), this Hindu temple attracts devotees from all over Southern California especially during festivals like Holi or Diwali.The temples intricate architecture and vivid colors can transport you right into India itself.
3. Centennial Heritage Museum (500 E Palmer St., Compton, Ca 90221) A museum dedicated to preserving the history of black people who reside or once resided there . It contains exhibits about formation/congregation within greater L.A area , civil rights struggles during midtwentieth century white flight.
4. Masjid AlTaqwa (1077 East Laurel Street, Compton CA 90221) This mosque serves as the center for Islamic worship among residents in South Los Angeles County and Orange County areas..Its architectural design uses traditional motifs amalgamated with modern elements making it unique among other masjids/mosques nearby.
5. Odd Fellows Cemetery(14423 S Broadway St., Gardena , CA 90248 ) This cemetery lies just upstream from Compton. Records show that many of those buried there were active members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal organization with Masonic roots. Now it is run by the city and has been recognized for having natural habitats amongst gravesites.
Compton has an incredibly rich religious and spiritual culture running deep within its history . If you want to delve deeper into this vibrant, diverse communitys soulful side , these places are definitely worth visiting!
Websites:
Greater Zion Church Family: https://www.greaterzionchurchfamily.com/
Sri Ranganatha Temple: http://www.rhts.org/
Centennial Heritage Museum:http://centennialheritagemuseum.wordpress.com
Masjid AlTaqwa :https://masjidtaqwa.net/
Odd Fellows Cemetery:http//www.southbayhistory.org/html/cemeteries.html
2408 North Wilmington Ave
Compton, CA 90222
United States
8/F5/f Washington Blvd
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
United States
500 E Palmer St.
Compton, CA 90221
United States
1077 East Laurel Street
Compton, CA 90221
United States
14423 S Broadway St.
Gardena, CA 90248
United States