Downey to consider Furman Park plaque to honor Carpenters

DOWNEY — The City Council on Tuesday will consider installing a plaque at Furman Park to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Carpenters’ first recording deal.

If approved, the plaque would be presented during a 55th anniversary celebration planned for April 24-28, 2024 in Downey.

The proposed bronze plaque measures 8 in. by 10 in. and would be installed outside Furman Park’s building 3. The cost to create and install the plaque is estimated at $750.

Siblings Richard and Karen Carpenter moved to Downey with their family in 1963. They signed their first record deal with A&M Records in 1969 and gained international stardom.

Furman Park holds historical significance as it is the location where Karen Carpenter first sang in public during an organized talent show.