Tag Archives: Compo Inn

Friday Flashback #11

The Compo Inn was before my time.

But many Westporters remember it.

(Courtesy of Seth Schachter/via Bill Scheffler)

(Courtesy of Seth Schachter/via Bill Scheffler)

Standing grandly on the northeast corner of Ludlow Road and Post Road West — the site today of an office building — it was a popular gathering spot for teachers, Famous Artists Schools employees, and others who worked nearby.

It featured “dancing, music, cafe and grill room.” An early telephone number — according to one advertisement — was simply “98.”

At one point —  perhaps through World War II — it was called Tony’s of 52nd Street. Back then it was host to famous musicians, and “stars of stage, screen and radio.”

It may have met its end in a fire.

Obviously, there’s a rich history to the Compo Inn. If you’ve got memories — or facts — click “Comments” below.

From Compo Inn To Chaverim

For several years, plans to build a synagogue on Ludlow Road have stirred controversy.

beit chaverimBeit Chaverim would like to move across the street and up the hill from its present, cramped quarters on Post Road West. Some neighbors fear increased traffic and congested parking.

This is not the first time a new use for Ludlow Road has been proposed.

In 1977 — according to a Norwalk Hour story unearthed by Mary Palmieri Gai – a developer proposed building a 3-story, 17,540-square foot office building on the corner of the Post Road and Ludlow.  There would be parking for 41 cars, plus another 16 spots in a new underground garage.

The office was planned for the site of the old Compo Inn. Back in the day, the Inn was a popular gathering spot for teachers, Famous Artists Schools employees, and others who worked nearby.

A very popular spot. And it had been for a long time. According to this photo (courtesy of Paul Ehrismann), it featured “dancing, music, cafe and grill room.” The telephone number was simply “98.”

Compo Inn

From the looks of it, there’s nothing like it today.

If the synagogue is approved, the last vestiges of the Compo Inn — and the nearby Marion Levy apartments — will finally meet the wrecking ball.

A later view of the Compo Inn.

A later view of the Compo Inn.