The Compton List
Original Compton pre-war records perished in a factory fire, during the World War Two Blitz
Today, through The Compton List, I am attempting to recreate not only a master installation list for the period, but to open up the field of research to include every detail of these fascinating organs.
Accordingly, there are sub-listings, covering Installation Facts and Figures, Chronology, Chamber Locations, Illuminated Surround and Wood Console Styles, Wood Tibias, Solo Cellos, Melotones, and a Pre-War 'A' Number List.
The Compton List now contains a number of monochrome illustrations. The ever-growing range includes some notable console photographs (some of which may be previewed by clicking the above link), but for a sample preview of a Solo Cello unit or a Series Two Melotone unit, with a commentary, specially written for this web site, click on these links.
Not simply a database, the work also exists as a living publication - ever continuing to record the movements of ranks and components, either as an instrument intact, or, in all too many instances, as parts from organs long since broken down.
The Compton List does not include information on Theatrones and Church Organs, although all known pre-war job numbers are listed.
Do you have any long-unanswered questions on the subject of Compton Theatre Organs, and feel that I may be able to help?
Do you have any information you may wish to contribute to The Compton List?
Do you wish to purchase a current copy of The Compton List?
I regret that copies of The Compton List cannot be ordered through a bookseller, and must be obtained directly from me.
For further details, I invite you to contact me by e-mail.
Factory test assembly of the Plaza, Birkenhead Compton, prior to despatch
The console shop 1952
A number of 347 and 348 Electrones in this photograph, taken in the early months of 1952. There is also a glimpse what may be the first ever 352 Melotone console.
On the pipe organ front, a Miniatura may be seen in the background, while the completed console in the foreground is destined for St Lawrence Parish Church, Pudsey.
Tuned percussions, stacked in the store, bear testimony to organs removed from theatres and taken back into stock around this time.
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