In the spring of 1934, a friendly rivalry between two Massachusetts towns spilled into the pages of the Boston newspapers — all over a leather medal and the bragging rights that came with being the region’s cribbage champion.

Reading’s own William F. O’Brien, celebrated holder of the town’s American Legion cribbage title, had earned local fame for his skill at the game and for the distinctive leather medal he proudly wore. His reputation, however, traveled farther than anyone expected — all the way to Norwood, where one man took particular exception to O’Brien’s unchallenged reign.

That man was James E. Slavin, known throughout Norwood — and, if you asked him, throughout the cribbage world — as “The Old Master.” Slavin’s supporters insisted that no finer, shrewder, or more cunning player could be found anywhere in Massachusetts. And they were determined to prove it.

On April 15, 1934, the Norwood Fire Department sent a formal challenge to Reading Post, addressed directly to O’Brien. The letter, penned by Stephen J. Cavanaugh, was equal parts humor and bravado. It expressed mock “dismay” that O’Brien was allowed to parade around with such a prized medal when, in Norwood’s view, a far superior player stood ready to claim it.

If O’Brien doubted Slavin’s abilities, the letter teased, he need only ask Slavin himself — a man never shy about his own credentials. The challenge concluded with an invitation to arrange a match and provided two contacts: Henry O. Millen at the Central Fire Station and Stephen Cavanaugh at his Railroad Avenue address.

Back in Reading, O’Brien did not dismiss the challenge. His manager, John M. Widell, confirmed that O’Brien was willing to defend his title — as long as the match could be scheduled around his duties with the Reading Police Department. The champion, it seemed, was ready to meet the “Old Master” across the cribbage board.

Whether the match ever took place is lost to time, but the exchange itself remains a charming snapshot of small‑town pride, good‑natured competition, and the enduring appeal of a classic card game.

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