Compo

Compo Beach

On April 25, 1777, the British landed at Compo Beach, and marched up Compo Road towards their raid on Danbury.  On their return trip, they encountered the local militia, and the Battle of Compo Hill ensued.  The cannons at Compo Point and the Minuteman statue, on Compo Road, commemorate those events.  Historically recorded as a battleground,  the Compo Beach market area is now better described as Westport’s playground. 

In 1920, F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald enjoyed Compo Beach, when they summered in Westport.  Today, in addition to the sand and the surf, the beach complex includes ball fields, a skate park, a children's playground, a town marina, barbecue areas, and a beach school and concession stand (in season.)

In 1960, the town successfully negotiated the purchase of its own luxurious country club, Longshore Club Park.  The price for the 191-acre facility was $1,925,000, less than many of the homes, in the beach area, sell for, today.  Westport residents now enjoy “country club” activities for a nominal fee. Whether golf or tennis, sailing or swimming is your preferred sport, Longshore offers it all.  During the winter, a section of the tennis courts is converted to an ice skating rink.  There is also an Inn and Restaurant, on the grounds, which are open year round to the public. 

Copyright © 2007 Marilyn Katz, All Rights Reserved, Compo Beach