Roundup: Bette Davis, Bat Inn, Boats …

It’s not the most expensive house for sale in Westport.

Nor is it the biggest.

But 1 Crooked Mile Road may be the most historic.

From 1967 to 1976, world-famous film star Bette Davis lived in the 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom, 4,710-square foot home, on the west branch of the Saugatuck River.

Built in 1929, “this iconic residence has been meticulously updated to preserve its antique allure while integrating modern amenities & sophisticated design.”

It’s on the market for $2.275 million. If interested — or just to gawk — click here to learn more.

Bette Davis’ house.

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Speaking of property: Last week’s clear-cutting of trees at the state Department of Transportation maintenance facility off the Sherwood Island Connector suddenly altered the look of that well-traveled road.

It also caused consternation for neighbors and nature lovers.

The number is smaller, and the location is different. But 4 more Westport trees are scheduled for removal, probably today.

James McLoughlin — an arborist on the town’s Tree Board — tells “06880” that the healthy, mature native trees will be removed on a town-owned section of Weston Road, on both sides of Hockanum Road, for what appears to be a new sidewalk project.

McLaughlin objected Friday, when he noticed small signs on them. He was
told he was a day late, and that they would be cut down on Monday.

Two of the trees slated for removal …

… and 2 others …

… and a close-up of the sign. (Photos/James McLoughlin)

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Friday’s Flashback featured a photo of a turn-of-the-(20th)-century inn, near Compo Beach.

There was a bat (animal, not baseball) logo. But not much other information.

No readers knew anything, either. Several speculated it was on Soundview Drive, based on the architecture and surroundings.

AI to the rescue!

Cheryl Saviano Petrone did not find what she wanted on ChatGPT — at first. But she persisted. And this was the result:

“Ah, I see now! You’re asking specifically about the Bat Inn at Compo Beach in Westport.

“Yes, the Bat Inn was indeed an actual establishment located near Compo Beach in the early 1900s. It was a popular resort hotel and a significant local landmark from the late 1800s into the mid-1900s.

“History of the Bat Inn: The Bat Inn was situated at the intersection of Compo Road South and the beach, close to the water. It was known for its wooden architecture, a large wrap-around porch, and its distinctive bat-shaped roof that gave it the name ‘Bat Inn.’

“This quirky design made the inn stand out among other accommodations in the area and contributed to its fame.”

“The hotel was popular in the early 1900s, attracting visitors who were looking for a charming, seaside retreat during the summer months. It also served as a gathering spot for social events and parties, particularly in the warm weather.

“Over time, as newer accommodations and developments grew in the area, the Bat Inn faded from prominence and was eventually demolished.

“Unfortunately, not many photographs or detailed records of the Bat Inn survive today, but it remains a part of local lore, especially among older Westport residents.

“It was a quaint, beloved spot in its time, often remembered fondly by those who experienced it…”

I’m not sure how much it “remains a part of local lore.” But if the rest of the sleuthing is correct, we’ve got our answer.

Thanks, Cheryl! And thank you ChatGPT, whoever — or whatever — you are.

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Alert “06880” reader Mark Laclair offers this warning to early season boaters:

“This winter’s ice has re-located channel markers. Red 16 is northwest of station, and I believe Green 15 is east of station. There may be others.

“I’ve seen at least 5 boats run aground utilizing the markers, including one in both locations Sunday morning. I’m sure there were plenty more. Slow and careful when navigating the channel!”

Boat aground in the Compo channel. (Photo/Mark Laclair)

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Do you do doo wop?

In 2 weeks, the UMass Doo Wop Shop — the school’s oldest all-male a cappella group — will make you smile and snap your fingers.

They’re booked for Christ & Holy Trinity Church (April 26, 6 p.m.), with a program that ranges from Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, the Temptations and Otis Redding all the way to the Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears and Silk Sonic. In years past they’ve performed at Radio City Music Hall, and the White House.

The event is a homecoming for one Doo Wop Shop member. The 2022 Staples High School graduate is a former Orphenian and Player.

And — oh yeah — his father, Rev. John Betit, is Christ & Holy Trinity’s rector.

There is no charge, but a free will offering can help raise funds for the group.

Sh-boom!

UMass Doo Wop Shop

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What better way to start our “Westport … Naturally” week than with this sun-bursting-through-the-clouds shot from Sherwood Island State Park:

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming UMass Doo Wop Shop show (story above):

(From Long Island Sound to the sounds of doo wop, “06880” is your hyper-local source for news, entertainment and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)