The abandoned Grace Episcopal Church building on Walpole Street is slated for demolition next week, according to Fire Chief Irving J. Dobson. In its place, the property’s owners—three local Norwood physicians—have finalized architectural plans to construct a modern split-level medical center.
Safety Concerns and Property Background
Chief Dobson announced the impending demolition date during a report to the Board of Selectmen, replying to a safety inspection request ordered by the board the previous week. The municipal safety check had been prompted by a formal letter from Arthur P. Allen of 5 Walpole St., who described the deserted, ivy-covered structure as an attractive nuisance and a direct health and safety hazard to neighborhood children.
Built in 1910, the historic church building had stood completely empty since 1962, when its congregation relocated to new quarters on Chapel Street. In March 1967, the property was acquired by three Norwood doctors: Dr. Donald Conlon, Dr. James Stanton, and Dr. Ronald Romeo.
Contemporary Medical Center Plans
Dr. Ronald Romeo confirmed that the new facility will feature a contemporary architectural design housing eight professional office suites. The commercial medical building is being designed by Professional Office Builders of Wisconsin, with construction slated to move forward immediately following demolition so that the new facility can open its doors by next September.
Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger
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First Congregational Church of Norwood Marks 275 Years-November 19, 2011
Amidst the commotion of a large church luncheon, the Rev. John Hamilton of the First Congregational Church of Norwood spoke about what it means to be a part of a congregation that has thrived longer than the country’s Declaration of Independence “It’s really a celebration of not just being around for such a long time,…
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Norwood Statue Vandalized-March 27, 2005
A statue of the Virgin Mary at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Norwood was vandalized with black spray paint on Good Friday, the most sacred day of the year for Catholics. The body of the statue, which depicts the Blessed Mother with praying hands, was covered in paint. Graffiti was scrawled beneath a plaque…
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Sharing a Home, a Career, a Church-June 15, 1991
A unique partnership brings growth and healing to a local pulpit as a co-pastor couple uses personal experience to connect with the pew.
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Vandalism of Blessed Mother Statue at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in South Norwood Appalls Parishioners-August 1, 1979
A marble statue of the Blessed Mother on the lawn of St. Peter’s Catholic Church rectory in South Norwood was heavily vandalized over the weekend, leaving all the fingers broken off the $3,000 imported figure.
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New Pastor Became Born-Again Christian At 16-June 20, 1978
A former Barrington College professor takes command of the local pulpit, prioritizing youth work.
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Norwood Catholics Laud Saturday Mass-June 23, 1969
St. Catherine’s Church becomes one of 17 suburban Boston parishes chosen to launch the new Saturday evening Vigil Mass, sparking enthusiastic praise from local workers and commuters.
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Norwood Priest Expelled From Iraq Sees Little Hope Of Return-June 17, 1969
Expelled from Baghdad after 22 years, Norwood’s Father Thomas B. Mulvehill celebrates his ordination anniversary at home amidst Middle East turmoil.
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To Honor St. George’s Pastor On 25th Anniversary As A Priest-This Day in Norwood History-May 26, 1965
This Day in Norwood History-May 26, 1965-To Honor St. George’s Pastor On 25th Anniversary As A Priest
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Good Neighbor Sunday Coming February 14-This Day in Norwood History-January 28, 1965
COMMITTEE MEMBERS making plans for “Good Neighbor Sunday” on February 14 are (seated): Rev. Allen Keedy, Pastor First Congregational Church, Mrs. John Clarke, John Flaherty, Jr., Mrs. George A. Sullivan, and Roger MacLeod. Standing, Rabbi David Prince, John Bremer, Chairman Social Action Committee, Norwood Council of Churches, Hon. George A. Sullivan, and Eugene Doherty. Committee…
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New Nazarene Church Site Located On Walpole Street-September 2, 1964
This Day In Norwood History-September 2, 1964-New Nazarene Church Site Located On Walpole Street
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