Long-time Westporter Scott Smith sees things the rest of us miss. Today, he sees the need for a flagpole. Scott writes:
This month, we honor our veterans and assess election results.
I hope it is not too early to turn our attention to an upcoming landmark event in our nation’s history. I’m talking about the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, to be celebrated on July 4, 2026.
Even in this divisive political time, I like to think that the one thing all Americans can rally around is the flag of the United States.
So here’s the idea: Let’s celebrate the semiquincentennial by erecting a tall new flagpole at the most prominent, historic spot in Westport — by the cannons at Compo Beach.
An iconic spot for a new flagpole? (Photo/Tim Woodruff)
There are 2 flagpoles at Compo. One is set inland among trees at the entrance, with a smaller flag at the lifeguard station along the boardwalk. Both strike me as underwhelming.
One current Compo Beach flagpole …
Given that it’s hard to see these flags from any distance, wouldn’t it be swell if the town had a great big American flag, and Westport’s too, for all to see?
,,, and another.
A new flagpole off Cedar Point would complement the cannons, while serving as a navigational aid and eye-catching marker for meetups. As an old analog guy, and longtime boater and kayaker, I’ve long sought out fluttering flags to gauge wind and weather.
Flying the town’s “Minute Man” flag in addition to Old Glory would also be a fine way to salute the brave patriots who battled the British after their landing at Compo in April 1777, then fought the Redcoats again after their return from destroying the colonial depot in Danbury.
As it happens, the town may already have a flagpole on standby. On a trip to the yard waste dump on Bayberry Lane this summer, I noticed a sizable metal pole rusting away in a weedy back corner of the lot. Perhaps it can be refurbished and returned to service.
Flagpole at the yard waste station. (Photos/Scott Smith unless otherwise noted)
What say we run this idea up the proverbial — and perhaps literal — flagpole with Westport’s new first selectman Kevin Christie?
Then we can all have something to salute at next year’s Independence Day fireworks at Compo Beach.
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