In the earliest minutes of May 1, 1934, Norwood welcomed a new resident under circumstances as charming as they were competitive. At precisely 12:40 a.m., the “stork” paid a visit to the home of Mr. and Mrs. William Dequette of 21 Folan Avenue, delivering an eight‑pound baby girl who instantly became the talk of the town. Her arrival was not only a moment of family joy — it also secured victory in a spirited community contest tied to Norwood’s celebration of Baby Week.
Local merchants had pooled together an impressive array of prizes for the first baby born in Norwood in the month of May. The offerings ranged from a quart of Grade A milk each day for a week, to a silk bathrobe, bassinet, baby carriage, shoes, stockings, and nearly every essential a newborn might need in her earliest months. The Dequette baby’s timely arrival meant she would receive them all.
Inflation Conversion
- A silk bathrobe valued at $5 in 1934 would be approximately $115 in 2026.
- A baby carriage valued at $10 in 1934 would be approximately $230 in 2026.
The excitement had been building for days. Three expectant mothers were due around the same time, and townspeople followed the “race” with a mixture of humor and genuine anticipation. Among the contenders was Mrs. Thomas Wallace (formerly Kay John Hyatt), daughter of Maj. Gen. W. Hyatt, longtime aide to Gen. Clarence W. Edwards. Her husband was a brother‑in‑law of former Governor Frank G. Allen, adding a touch of political pedigree to the friendly competition.
As midnight approached, Norwood residents watched the figurative stork with unusual attentiveness. The “mystic hour of 12” had barely passed when the bird was said to be “hovering about town.” Then, at 12:40 a.m., it swooped decisively toward Folan Avenue. Inside the Dequette home, the moment was carefully documented: Dr. Charles Lynch and Miss Katherine Kingman, the district nurse, checked their watches against those of the proud father. Other clocks in the house were consulted to ensure accuracy. The verdict was unanimous — 12:40 a.m. was the official time of birth.
But the stork’s work was not done. At 5:05 a.m., it made a second appearance, this time at Norwood Hospital, where Mrs. Luke Ryan of 35 Summit Avenue delivered a nine‑pound baby boy. Though he missed the Baby Week prize package, his arrival added to the joyful energy that seemed to permeate Norwood that morning.
The stork was expected to return later in the day to the Wallace home, where anticipation still ran high. But for the Dequette family, the honors had already been claimed — and with them, a story that would be retold for generations.
This whimsical contest, blending civic pride with small‑town charm, reflected the close‑knit nature of Norwood in the 1930s. Baby Week was more than a promotional event; it was a celebration of community, family, and the shared milestones that knit neighbors together. The Dequette baby’s arrival — timed to the minute — became part of that legacy.
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