Set high on a rise along Walpole Street, Oakview Mansion stands as a monument to Norwood’s industrial prosperity and architectural elegance. Originally built in 1868 for tanning heir Francis Olney Winslow, this Second Empire landmark later served as the "Executive Mansion" for Massachusetts Governor Frank Allen. From hosting world-renowned figures like Sergei Rachmaninoff and Calvin Coolidge to its transition into a religious retreat known as "The Cenacle," Oakview’s story is a rich tapestry of Gilded Age wealth, political influence, and dedicated modern-day restoration
A Walk Around the Park: Walking Tour of the Old Winslow Neighborhood
Join us on Sunday, October 14 at 3 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church for a tour of the "Old Winslow Neighborhood". The rain date will be the following Saturday, September 23rd at 3 p.m.
Wonderful Women of Norwood-Martha Gilman (Robie) Winslow
Martha Gilman Robie Winslow, Glass Portrait, colorized by Norwood Historical Society Martha Gilman Robie, (Mrs. Frances Olney Winslow) was born in Plymouth, NH, on November 11, 1841, and was the … Continue reading Wonderful Women of Norwood-Martha Gilman (Robie) Winslow
Former Massachusetts Governor Frank G. Allen Dead at 76-This Day in Norwood History-October 10, 1950
Former Massachusetts Governor Frank G. Allen Dead at 76-This Day in Norwood History-October 10, 1950
Frank Allen Reminisces About His First Job-This Day In Norwood History-March 20, 1941
“My First Job” Ex-Gov. Allen Took Care of Leather Firm’s Stove This boy’s pay was raised to $3 weekly: Ex-Gov. Allen in his early days in the leather business. When … Continue reading Frank Allen Reminisces About His First Job-This Day In Norwood History-March 20, 1941
Former Gov. Allen-Owner Of Plant, Accused of “Importing New York Thugs” in Strike-This Day In Norwood History-December 4, 1933
STATE AND BOSTON OFFICERS CALLED NORWOOD, Dec 4 — State and Boston police were called upon to aid the Norwood police today after striking tannery workers and hired guards clashed … Continue reading Former Gov. Allen-Owner Of Plant, Accused of “Importing New York Thugs” in Strike-This Day In Norwood History-December 4, 1933
Gov. Allen Dedicates Norwood Armory-This Day In Norwood History-January 24, 1930
NORWOOD. Jan 24-In the presence of high military officials, Norwood town officers, and Selectmen from surrounding towns. Gov Allen tonight dedicated the new State Armory on Nahatan St. Thomas B. … Continue reading Gov. Allen Dedicates Norwood Armory-This Day In Norwood History-January 24, 1930
Gov And Mrs. Allen Are First To Support Camp Fire Girls Fund-This Day In Norwood History-April 27, 1929
Campaign Begins in Norwood For Fund to Beautify Memorial Tower Sq MRS H. M. PLIMPTON BUYING A TAG FROM NANCY GAY, NORWOOD CAMPFIRE GIRL Two hundred Camp Fire Girls laid … Continue reading Gov And Mrs. Allen Are First To Support Camp Fire Girls Fund-This Day In Norwood History-April 27, 1929
Frank G. Allen Jr Faces Cameramen With Father And Mother On Day He Is Two Months Old-This Day In Norwood History-January 9, 1929
“WHAT DID I TELL YOU?” ASKS GOVERNOR’S BABY, “HERE I AM” FIRST PICTURE OF GOV ALLEN’S BABY NORWOOD. Jan 9 - “What did I tell you?” chortled Frank Gilman Allen … Continue reading Frank G. Allen Jr Faces Cameramen With Father And Mother On Day He Is Two Months Old-This Day In Norwood History-January 9, 1929
Massachusetts’ New Executive Mansion—The Allen Home At Norwood-This Day In Norwood History-January 3, 1929
ALLENS WILL REMAIN AT NORWOOD WHERE BABY, FRANK JR, MAY THRIVE New Governor’s Son Has Elephants and Elephants And Mrs Allen Laughingly Wonders Why Oakview, home to Massachusetts Governor Frank … Continue reading Massachusetts’ New Executive Mansion—The Allen Home At Norwood-This Day In Norwood History-January 3, 1929