A full and lively week unfolds across town as students prepare for graduation, local residents return from illness and military service, and civic groups finalize their spring schedules. Businesses continue to welcome young workers stepping into full‑time roles, while churches and community organizations host events that draw neighbors together. From school achievements to parish celebrations, the town’s activities reflect a season of transition, accomplishment, and shared community life.
Social & Personal Notes
Savage–Jankielewicz Nuptials Celebrated at St. Peter’s Church

A lovely spring wedding took place at St. Peter’s Church on Saturday morning at the nine o’clock nuptial Mass, when Miss Helena Therese Jankielewicz, of 46 Concord Avenue, became the bride of Francis John Savage, of 16 Willow Street. The bride is the sister of Mrs. Adolph Wojdag, and the groom is the son of Mrs. Anne Dundulis.
The altar, adorned with white gladioli, provided a graceful setting for the ceremony, which was performed by Rev. Hippolyte Zawalich, pastor of the parish. A choir sang throughout the Mass, adding to the beauty and solemnity of the occasion.
The Bride and Her Attendants
Given in marriage by her brother‑in‑law, Adolph Wojdag, the bride wore an ankle‑length ballerina gown of white lace satin with nylon net. She carried an old‑fashioned bouquet, completing a classic and elegant bridal ensemble.
Her maid of honor, Stella Mary Jankielewicz, of St. Joseph Avenue, wore a nile‑green ballerina gown and carried a bouquet of yellow roses and spring flowers.
Vito Stalman of Waltham served as best man for the groom.
Both mothers wore navy blue with orchid corsages, while the bride’s sister chose a beige and navy outfit, also accented with an orchid.
Reception and Wedding Journey
A reception followed at Lewis Restaurant, where family and friends gathered to celebrate the newlyweds.
Afterward, the couple departed on a motor tour through the Midwest, the bride wearing a stylish pink check suit, blue shoes and bag, white hat and gloves, and an orchid corsage.
Upon their return, Mr. and Mrs. Savage will make their home at 46 Concord Avenue, Norwood.
Background of the Couple
The bride attended Boston Girls’ High School. The groom, a graduate of Norwood High School, is employed as a carpenter.
Their marriage joins two long‑established Norwood families and adds another chapter to the town’s rich tapestry of community celebrations.
For those interested in the history of St. Peter’s parish or Norwood’s mid‑century wedding traditions, you can explore St. Peter’s Church history or Norwood social customs.
Miss Mary McNally of St. George Avenue and Miss Lillian McNeil of an unspecified street have begun part‑time employment at Control Engineering on Route No. 1. Both young women, seniors at Norwood High School, will shift to full‑time work on June 15 as they complete their studies and enter the workforce.
Miss Martha Schaier, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Schaier of 45 Berwick Place, has accepted employment at Bird & Son. A senior at Norwood High School, she will graduate on June 9 and begin full‑time duties immediately afterward. Also joining Bird & Son is Miss Barbara Sameski of 98 Monroe Street, a senior at the Henry O. Peabody School for Girls, who will graduate on June 9.
Mrs. Nellie C. Horgan of 648 Washington Street has returned home following a recent illness and is reported to be much improved. Friends and neighbors are pleased to hear of her recovery.
Mr. and Mrs. Hayes Kelley of St. George Avenue announce the birth of their first son. The couple also has a daughter, Debbie, who is 1½ years old. The family shares their happy news with the community.
The Misses Jackie Galvin, Lillian Kasota, Betty Pendergast, and Patty O’Brien spent last weekend in Boston. All four are seniors at Norwood High School and enjoyed the outing together as graduation approaches.
Miss Aileen Fitzmorris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fitzmorris of 9 Clark Street, has been accepted at Bridgewater State College. Aileen, a senior at Norwood High School, will graduate in June and plans to continue her education in the fall.
Home on furlough for a week is Kenney Robertson of Berwick Place, a member of the United States Army and a recent graduate of Norwood High School. Also home on furlough is Henry Karshis of Folan Avenue, South Norwood, who graduated with the class of 1950.
Miss Patricia McGuff of 340 Washington Street, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McGuff, has been accepted at Mount Ida. A senior at Norwood High School, she will graduate in June and begin her studies thereafter.
Congratulations are extended to Mr. and Mrs. Peter Circelli of the Bronx, New York, on the birth of their twin boys. Mrs. Circelli is the former Sibby Puopolo of Norwood, and friends here are pleased to hear the news.
Mr. and Mrs. Leslie J. Richardson of 129 Cottage Street recently traveled to Little Rock, Arkansas, to attend a Pontifical High Mass where their son, John Richardson, studying for the priesthood, was made a sub‑deacon. William F. Mullane of Howard Street accompanied them on the trip.
Schools & Youth
The Norwood High School Girls’ Tennis Team secured a decisive victory over Whitman last Wednesday, winning all four games in the match. Team members include Patsy Ryan, Ida Cordo, Delal Assim, Betty Pendergast, Nancy Curley, Ruth Crowley, and Mary Alice Whelan. Their next match will take place Tuesday in Needham.
Several seniors from Norwood High School have secured employment at Plimpton Press. Miss Joanne Anderson, Miss Winifred Coyne, and Miss Claire Slack will begin full‑time work after their graduation on June 9. Miss Elizabeth Caruso, also a senior, is currently employed part‑time and will transition to full‑time work after graduation.
Miss Josephine DeRose of 207 Winslow Avenue, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeRose, graduates this Thursday evening, May 21, after completing three years at the Posse School of Physical Education.
The Hilltop Highlighters, an all‑girl vocal sextette from Norwood High School, will appear on Norm Prescott’s radio program “So You Want To Be Heard” on WORL on Thursday, May 28, at 3:00 p.m. Members Ruth Wurlitzer, Irene Falconer, Helen Pelletier, Alma McLean, Irene Ostrom, and Joan Anderson have performed widely at assemblies, PTA meetings, veterans hospitals, and other events.
Miss Jane Corcoran, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John J. Corcoran of 37 Earle Street, has been elected president of the Class of 1954 at Framingham State Teachers College. A Home Economics major, she has been active in student leadership and several campus organizations.
The Shattuck School PTA held its annual meeting on May 14, electing new officers for the coming year. A program of entertainment followed, including comedy, monologue, sleight‑of‑hand, and silent film presentations. The Curtain Timers, Norwood’s theatrical group, presented the school with a record player.
Recreation Review
With summer fast approaching, the Norwood Recreation Department is buzzing with activity, reminders, and preparations for the busy season ahead. From Youth Center dances to rifle matches, Golden Age gatherings to Girls’ Drama rehearsals, the Civic is once again the heartbeat of community life.
Youth Center Dance Reminder: Guest Passes Required
The Recreation Department reminds teens that out‑of‑town guests at Saturday night’s Youth Center dance must secure passes in advance. Enforcement of the rule continues, so anyone planning to bring a guest should stop by the Civic before Friday at 5:00 p.m. to obtain a pass.
Rifle Club Nears Season’s End
George Oelschiagel and his sharpshooters traveled to the Mass. Hospital School in Canton for their final match of the season. Results were not yet available at press time, but will appear in Tuesday’s paper. Once again, Oelschiagel—affectionately known as “Mr. Marksmanship”—is hinting at retirement, though members hope he’ll reconsider come fall.
Playground & Pool Plans Coming Soon
Announcements are expected shortly regarding the playground staff for the upcoming season. Tentative plans call for playgrounds to open June 20, with Hawes Brook Pool scheduled to open June 22, pending final preparations.
Swimming class registration will be handled through the schools as usual.
Best Wishes to Barbara Jefferson
Former Playground Leader Barbara Jefferson, who once presided over the High School and Bond Street playgrounds, is preparing to walk down the aisle next month. Warm wishes go out to her from the Recreation Department.
Golden Agers Wrap Up Formal Meetings
The Golden Age group concluded its formal meeting season with a fascinating talk by FBI Agent O’Brien of the Boston office. While meetings pause for the summer, the Golden Age Lounge in the Legion Quarters will remain open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:30–4:30 p.m. for cards, checkers, television, and ballgame‑watching.
Girls’ Drama Group Prepares Minstrel Show
Under the direction of Virginia Bergeron, the Girls’ Drama Group is putting the finishing touches on a Minstrel Show to be presented at their final Open House of the season, scheduled for June 8 or June 11. Expectations are high—this may be their finest production yet.
Farewell to Professor Dethier
Members of the Norwood–Norfolk County Orchestra honored Professor and Mrs. Dethier with an electric frying outfit at their season‑ending party last week. Over 60 people attended the celebration, which served as both a farewell and a tribute to the retiring director.
The Orchestra will continue next season under new leadership, with rehearsals resuming in September. Professor Dethier’s contributions will be deeply missed.
Where Are the Friday Nighters?
Attendance at the Friday night Civic dances has dropped sharply from the 200‑plus crowds of earlier years. To keep the dances running through the summer, the Recreation Department urges teens to turn out in greater numbers. Suggestions for boosting attendance are welcome.
New Roof for the Civic
A new roof is being installed at the Civic—perhaps, as the column jokes, because the “noise of the Friday nighters helped blow the old one off.”
Schedule for the Week Ahead
Monday, May 25
- 3:00 p.m. — Girls’ Drama (Social Hall)
- 1:30–4:30 p.m. — Golden Age Lounge open
- 7:00 p.m. — Recreation Rifle Club (Municipal Range)
Tuesday, May 26
- No formal programs
Wednesday, May 27
- 1:30–4:30 p.m. — Golden Age Lounge open
- 3:00 p.m. — Girls’ Drama
- 7:00 p.m. — Recreation Rifle Club
Thursday, May 28
- 3:00 p.m. — Girls’ Drama
Friday, May 29
- 1:30–4:30 p.m. — Golden Age Lounge open
- 3:00 p.m. — Girls’ Drama
- 7:30–10:00 p.m. — Friday Evening Dance (Junior High age)
Saturday, May 30
- 7:30–11:00 p.m. — Youth Center Dance (High School age)
Business & Industry
Bird & Son and Plimpton Press continue to hire local students preparing for graduation, offering full‑time employment beginning in June. These opportunities mark an important transition for many seniors entering the workforce.
Mr. A1 Kazulis, an usher and Holy Name Society member, has opened a car repair shop on Summer Street. The community extends best wishes for success in his new business venture.
Clubs, Churches & Organizations
The Daughters of Isabella, Norwood Circle, will hold a Stanley Party as their May social on May 26 at 8 p.m. in the K. of C. Hall. Mrs. John McGonagle serves as chairman, and refreshments will be provided by Mrs. Robert Cotter and her committee.
The Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles will hold their annual installation and banquet on June 10 in Wrentham. Members must make reservations by May 27.
Mr. and Mrs. John J. Coakley of Norwood announce the engagement of their daughter, Faith Coakley, to Mr. Eduardo Marchena, son of Dr. and Mrs. Ricardo Marchena of San Jose, Costa Rica. A September wedding is planned.
The Jewish Women’s Council of Norwood will hold its Annual Dinner Meeting on Monday, June 1, at the Trot Room in Lewis Restaurant. The evening will include dinner, entertainment, a card party, and installation of officers. Mrs. Arnold Greene and her committee have arranged the event.
The Norwood Literary Club met on May 18 at The F Holland Day House, where a slate of officers for the 1953–1954 season was presented. Members also enjoyed a paper on Nathaniel Hawthorne and a poem titled “The Old Clay House.” Refreshments were served during the social hour.
St. Catherine’s Parish announces a full schedule of classes, novenas, and services leading up to Pentecost. Requiem Masses will be offered for Michael J. O’Donnell, John J. O’Donnell, and Lillian Garlick. The parish also reminds residents of the annual Seminary Collection and the St. Vincent de Paul Society clothing drive on May 21–23.
St. George’s Lithuanian Parish is preparing a Solemn High Mass of Thanksgiving celebrating Fr. Norbut’s 25 years in the priesthood. A gala testimonial will follow at the Norwood Junior High School, with distinguished guests attending from several states. The parish Boy Scout troop is also expanding its activities under new leadership.
Sports
Below is a full, polished, TDINH‑style historical sports feature, written in the tone of mid‑century Norwood newspaper reporting. All facts come directly from your attached document, and citations are included as required.
This Day in Norwood History – Bunker Fans 20 as Norwood Rolls Over Walpole, 5–1
May 1953 — Behind one of the most dominant pitching performances in Norwood High School history, Dick Bunker struck out 20 batters and allowed only four scattered hits as the Blue & White defeated a strong Walpole club 5–1. As Charlie Parker reported, Bunker “mowed down the opposition in grand style” and “didn’t give a base on balls during the game” .
Bunker, now 6–0 on the season, showed complete command, “hitting the corners from all sides” and saving his best pitches for moments with runners aboard .
Norwood Strikes Early
Norwood jumped ahead with a five‑run second inning, sparked by Bunker himself, who led off with a triple to right‑center and scored on Surette’s single. The inning continued with:
- A perfect sacrifice by Renzi
- A heads‑up dash home by Surette when the catcher dropped a third strike
- Cleri walking, stealing second, and scoring on Doyle’s single
- Al Lane driving in Doyle with a shot to right‑center
As the article notes, “Norwood put the game in the bag” with this explosive frame .
Walpole’s Lone Run
Walpole managed its only tally in the fourth, stringing together three of its four hits as Bunker briefly “began to coast and save the soupbone” .
Insurance in the Eighth
Norwood added its final run in the eighth when Bunker walked, advanced on a long fly, and scored on Lane’s second hit of the day.
Lane finished with two hits in three trips, continuing what Parker called “the surprise of the year” as the senior emerged as a major offensive force .
Stat Leaders
Norwood collected six hits:
- Lane – 2
- Doyle, Bunker, Surette, Renzi – 1 each
Extra‑base hits included Bunker’s triple and Renzi’s double.
Walpole’s four hits were evenly distributed among the first four batters.
Coach Scafati’s Sophomores Shine
The article highlights the contributions of Norwood’s young core:
- Renzi, Phelen, McGloin, Graney providing timely hits and strong fielding
- Surette, Doyle, and Bunker supplying “the big thump at the plate”
Bun Cieri led the team in runs scored, while Doyle and Bunker were battling for the team lead in hits.
Junior High Wins 7–6 Thriller
In a separate contest at the Civic, the Norwood Junior High nine edged Needham 7–6 on a perfect bases‑loaded squeeze bunt by M. Kelley, scoring P. Abley for the walk‑off win. As reported, “Kelley clinched the ball game for Norwood by squeezing in the winning run” .
Pitcher K. Dixon starred with a triple, double, and strong early innings, while Generazzo, Tracey, and Cloherty delivered key hits.
Town Softball League Needs Two More Teams
The Recreation Softball League extended its entry deadline, seeking two additional teams to reach the ideal eight‑team format. Six teams had registered, including VFW, Browne’s, Bird & Son, Plimpton Press, National Guard, and Gabriel Co. .
Little League Highlights
Everett Roundy Jr. reported:
- Indians 10, Yankees 6 — Danny Smith struck out 11, while Baldwin and Buckley each had three hits.
- Cardinals 8, Dodgers 3 — McKenna and Gore homered; Gore fanned 11 for his third straight win.
Two trades were completed, and managers were scheduled to meet to draw minor‑league affiliations. A special guest was expected for the May 25 minor‑league opener.
Norwood Arena: “Three‑in‑One” Racing Program
The Norwood Arena prepared for another Saturday night of roaring auto‑racing action. Cars from eleven states filled the lot the previous week, and Rhode Island’s Hop Harrington continued his winning streak in the Feature Race.
Norwood Sportsmen’s Association Meets
At its May 18 meeting, the Association:
- Debated and approved revised by‑laws
- Created a new membership committee, chaired by Johnny Turchin
- Received updates on pheasant hatching and fishing derby preparations
As the report humorously noted, “We set ours by the smash of President Phil Johnson’s gavel” at 8 p.m. sharp.
The Norwood High School Girls’ Tennis Team celebrated a decisive victory over Whitman, winning all four games in their match. Their next contest will take place Tuesday against Needham on an away court.
Police & Public Safety
The Norwood Police Department responded to a fire deep in the woods at Germany Plains around midnight Tuesday. Patrolman George Sanborn spotted the blaze and summoned assistance from Westwood and Walpole police. Firefighters discovered an abandoned car that had been set on fire, with flames spreading to nearby brush. The fire was extinguished quickly, and no additional vehicles were found in the area.
Town Government & Civic Affairs
The Town Manager’s Office reports that several street obstruction permits have been issued pending Board approval, including work at 82 Day Street and a sign installation at 906 Washington Street. The Lions’ Club has been granted permission to sell brooms made by the blind at two locations on May 22, with proceeds benefiting both the Club’s Charity Fund and the blind.
Life‑guard service was provided at Willett Pond over the weekend. The Engineering Department is surveying the Shady Arbor area following a resident inquiry. Efforts are underway to secure funds to level a portion of the Lenox Street Playground for children’s use. A request for $1,200 has been submitted to address drainage issues on Fisher Street.
Advertisements & Notices
The Thrift Shop reminds residents not to discard usable items during spring cleaning. The Community Committee notes that many repairable or repurposable items are being thrown away unnecessarily. Proceeds from the shop have supported civic projects for 25 years. Residents may call Norwood 7‑2991 for pickup service. Clothing need not be ironed; washed garments are readily accepted.
The Recreation Department will host its weekly Youth Center party this Saturday evening at the Civic. Music will be provided by Craig Stevens and his Whispering Serenaders. Admission is 25 cents, and out‑of‑town guests must obtain passes in advance. A junior high dance will also be held Friday evening with music by Charlie George and his Orchestra.
Shopping With Shirley
Graduation season is upon us, and Shirley is back with her trademark whirlwind tour of local shops, bargains, and irresistible finds. With class days, banquets, and celebrations filling the calendar, she urges readers to save their energy—and their dollars—by shopping smart and staying close to home.
Sherwood’s – Graduation Frocks Extra Special
Shirley begins at SHERWOOD’S, 646 Washington Street, Norwood, where the racks are overflowing with dresses perfect for graduation festivities.
She swoons over:
- Handsome nylon sheers
- Rich pure‑silk dresses
- Styles with stoles or jackets
- And one especially dreamy number:
- A strapless lace bodice
- A straight iridescent silk skirt
- A short, smart jacket with ¾ sleeves and turn‑back cuffs
SHERWOOD’S carries dresses in every size, and Shirley gives high praise to Mrs. Landers, the owner, manager, and buyer—always dressed like a page from Vogue, proof that she knows exactly what her customers need.
Even better: all famous‑make suits have been drastically reduced.
Explore more about Norwood’s mid‑century fashion scene.
Westwood General Store – A Fabulous Place!
Next stop: the WESTWOOD GENERAL STORE, 735 High Street, where Shirley spends a full two hours marveling at the store‑wide sale.
She reports crowds flocking in for:
- Men’s work dungarees
- Children’s play clothes
- Sneakers and summer wear
- Hand‑blown glass in jewel tones of amethyst, topaz, and sapphire
- Handmade baskets in all shapes and sizes
- Unique objects for collectors
Everything is 25% off or more, with new shipments arriving daily.
Discover more about historic Westwood shops.
The Robin’s Nest – Late Summer Hours Begin
Shirley then pops into THE ROBIN’S NEST, 571 High Street, Westwood, a spotless and charming snack bar now operating late summer hours.
From now until fall, it’s open until 11 p.m., perfect for:
- Submarine sandwiches
- Creamy soda‑fountain drinks
- A cozy evening stop after shopping or strolling
Bunny’s Gift Studio – Jewelry for Every Occasion
Finally, Shirley visits BUNNY’S GIFT STUDIO in the Ellis Tavern Building, Westwood. New shipments of better jewelry have just arrived.
She highlights:
- A wide bracelet adorned with brown speckled stones
- A matching neckpiece
- Ideal gifts for graduations, weddings, and showers
Remember BUNNY’S when you need something special.
Odds & Ends
Chief hospital corpsman Ernest J. Muehlberger, USN, of 327 Railroad Avenue, has reported for duty at the U.S. Naval Station in Key West. A graduate of Norwood High School, he entered the Navy in 1940 and is married to the former Jane A. Alexander of Brooklyn.
Airman John R. Kalistrom, son of Mr. and Mrs. Algot Kalistrom of 15 Johnson Court, is serving with the Fleet All Weather Training Unit, Pacific, in the Hawaiian area. He entered the Navy in November 1952 after graduating from Norwood High School.
As spring continues to unfold, the week’s many accomplishments, celebrations, and community efforts reflect the strong civic spirit that remains at the heart of town life.
Discover more from Norwood Historical Society
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