The passing of Herbert Moseley Plimpton marked the close of one of Norwood’s most distinguished industrial chapters. Founder of The Plimpton Press and Holliston Mills, Plimpton’s life embodied the ideals of craftsmanship, civic generosity, and faith that shaped Norwood’s rise as a center of printing and enterprise.
Born in Walpole on May 13, 1853, Plimpton attended Williston Academy before entering the book‑binding trade. His vision and perfectionism transformed a modest bindery into one of New England’s premier printing houses. The story of The Plimpton Press reads like a saga of American enterprise—built on precision, integrity, and enduring standards of excellence.
He married Frances Winslow of Norwood in 1889, and together they became pillars of the town’s civic and spiritual life. After her passing, Plimpton retired to Miami Beach, Florida, where he continued his lifelong love of the sea aboard his yacht Sunset. He died there on April 22, 1942, following a series of illnesses.
Industrial and Civic Legacy
Plimpton’s influence extended far beyond his pressrooms. He founded and led The Plimpton Press, established Holliston Mills, and served as President and Treasurer of both. His leadership roles included Director of The Norwood Trust Company, The Norwood Gas Company, and President and Trustee of Norwood Hospital. He also served as Vice President of the Board of Trustees of Wheaton College, which honored him with a Doctor of Humanities degree.
Faith and Philanthropy
For 58 years, Plimpton was a devoted member of The First Congregational Church of Norwood, serving as Church Clerk for three decades. His generosity funded major improvements, including Pingree Hall (1924), its later enlargement, and the addition of Sunday School rooms, choir space, and a kitchen in 1929. His gifts enabled the church to sustain a pioneering program of religious education for Norwood’s youth—unique in its scope and spirit.
A Life of Generosity
Plimpton’s charities were extensive and quiet. He belonged to The Country Club of Brookline and several yacht clubs, spending his later years navigating Florida waters aboard Sunset. His memorial service was held at Philbrick Funeral Parlors, Miami Beach, with a Norwood service planned for June at the First Congregational Church.
Herbert M. Plimpton’s legacy endures in the institutions he built, the faith he strengthened, and the civic ideals he embodied.
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In Memoriam-Florence Guild-March 20, 1967
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In Memoriam-Jane Atherton Hewitt
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Last Tribute Paid To Dr. Frederick Albert Cleveland-This Day in Norwood History-February 1, 1947
One of Norwood’s most distinguished citizens, Dr. Frederick Albert Cleveland, P.H.B., P.H.D., passed away at 2:10 o’clock Saturday morning at the Norwood Hospital. He was in his 81st year. Friends and townsmen appreciative of Dr. Cleveland’s work in this community paid tribute to his memory at services held Monday afternoon at 3 o’clock at the…
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Leighton S. Thompson Norwood High School Superintendent Dies After Brief Illness-This Day In Norwood History-March 11, 1946
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In Memoriam-Jerome A Pendergast-May 15, 1933
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Sarah Morse Everett, Oldest Native Resident of Norwood, Turns 90-This Day In Norwood History-May 18, 1912
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