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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Norwood Police Catch Thieves-This Day In Norwood History-July 21, 1913
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Norwood Civic Association Solving Many Social Problems-This Day In Norwood History-June 29, 1913
George F. Willett, a Well-Known Business Man, Has Built Up in Norwood a Civic Center With a Membership of 700, Which Is Doing Much to Wipe Out Class Distinction, Sometimes … Continue reading Norwood Civic Association Solving Many Social Problems-This Day In Norwood History-June 29, 1913
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New Headquarters-Police Department of Norwood Moves Into Commodious Rooms on Market St-This Day In Norwood History-June 25, 1913
NORWOOD. June 25, 1913—The Police Department of Norwood moved into new headquarters yesterday, leaving the old headquarters which have been occupied as such since the Police Department was organized in … Continue reading New Headquarters-Police Department of Norwood Moves Into Commodious Rooms on Market St-This Day In Norwood History-June 25, 1913
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P.C. Costello Promoted-This Day In Norwood History-April 21, 1913
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Norwood Eagles Bowling Team Rises from Last Place to Champions-This Day In Norwood History-April 4, 1913
From cellar to champions — the Norwood Eagles stunned the league and took home the trophy.
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Norwood Votes For New Balch School, Buys Lots For Common & Town Hall Purposes-This Day In Norwood History-December 21, 1912
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