F. E. Compton

Frank Elbert Compton (August 7, 1874 – May 13, 1950) was an American publisher known for producing reference works, most notably Compton's Pictured Encyclopedia, first published in 1922 and later named Compton's Encyclopedia.

Compton was born on August 7, 1874. He obtained his education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In 1894, he began his career in publishing as an associate of Chandler Beach, a publisher based in Chicago.

In 1905, Compton became the general manager of C. B. Beach & Company. When Chandler Beach retired in 1907, Compton assumed ownership of the company, which was subsequently renamed F. E. Compton & Co. During his career, Compton operated primarily in Chicago, Illinois.

The company published The New Student's Reference Work until 1912, after which the publication was handled by F. E. Compton & Co. Compton’s firm specialized in producing encyclopedias and reference books.

Frank Compton passed away in La Jolla, California, on May 13, 1950.

In 1961, the publishing rights to products by F. E. Compton & Co. were acquired by Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. Today, the reference work originally published by Compton continues under the name Compton's by Britannica and remains in print.