DAR in Downey

Walking across one of the grassy fields at Furman Park, I came across this plaque. It is from the Santa Gertrudes Chapter of the DAR and was dedicated in 1976. I couldn't believe it! I had never noticed this before. Evidently, the DAR donated this grove of trees to the park.

Founded in 1890, the Daughters of the American Revolution honors and preserves the legacy of our patriot ancestors. Over two hundred years ago, American patriots fought and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. (I have to admit, since watching Gilmore Girls, I have wanted to join the DAR.)

DAR membership is available to women 18 years or older who can prove they are a direct descendant of Revolutionary War patriots. DAR promotes patriotism, education, and historic preservation.

While I am not a member of DAR, my daughter surprised me a couple of years ago by joining. Maybe it's time I joined myself!

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
~ Lee Greenwood

College Settlement

I have never noticed this plaque before. It sits on the north end of the Downey Fire Station #1. It states "Site of College Settlement, circa 1868 developed around Los Nietos collegiate institute (first protestant college in LA county), the methodist church, masonic lodge, Alameda school all had their beginnnings here. Settlement became part of Downey in 1873."

The area that is currently Downey was once part of a much larger "rancho" which was originally established as a land grant to Manuel Nieto in 1784. Incompassing 300,000 acres, it included what would today be Downey, Norwalk, Pico Rivera, Lakewood, Long Beach, Signl Hill and Huntington Beach. Even though we had a big beginning, Downey is now a small town - it's really only about 12 square miles.

I guess the fun part in all of this is appreciating the past we have. We are not old by European standards, but we have over 200 years of history! Kind of cool. And it was fun to be reminded of this in noticing this plaque today.