Talk of the Town-November 3, 1956

As November opened in Norwood, civic organizations, churches, schools, labor unions, and local industries kept the community calendar full. From union meetings and charitable drives to school celebrations and parish events, the town reflected the active social and civic life that characterized mid-century Norwood.

Front Page & Civic Life

The executive board of the Norwood Town Employee Union, Local No. 342, was scheduled to hold its regular monthly meeting on Thursday evening, November 1, at 7:30 p.m. in the Legion quarters of the Civic Building. Several matters of importance were expected to come before the board, including discussion of a grievance matter. Officials anticipated a full attendance of executive board members.

Political activity also remained visible throughout town as election season entered its final days. Large numbers of Norwood residents reportedly attended a major rally for presidential candidate Adlai Stevenson on Monday evening. Political advertising and campaign statements occupied prominent space in the local press, reflecting the heightened public interest ahead of Election Day.

Attorney General George Fingold pointed to his record in office during the campaign, noting that his current effort had emphasized his achievements as the Commonwealth’s chief legal officer.

“My opponent hasn’t been able to cite a single act of his as a City Councilman to benefit the people of the city he is supposed to represent.”

Community & Social Life

Residents were reminded of the weekly St. George’s Whist Party, scheduled for the evening of November 1.

The Eagles announced a dance for Friday evening, November 2, with music provided by Lester Lee and his orchestra.

At the local VFW Home, Harrison Holton continued his regular Friday evening accordion performances, entertaining patrons with a repertoire of popular, old-fashioned, and folk melodies.

Belated birthday greetings were extended to Mrs. Mary Newell, of 1285 Washington Street; Mrs. Harold Brittain, of 84 Chapel Street; and young Tony Knelzys, who celebrated his fifth birthday.

Members of Local 1330 were reminded of their annual banquet at Capp’s in North Easton on November 4. Social activities were to begin at 5 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. Entertainment would be provided by Tony Mandell’s Band.

Religious Services & Church News

Parishioners of St. George’s Church eagerly anticipated the church’s annual bazaar on November 3, 1956.

The event promised games, prizes, and activities for children and adults alike. Organizers expected strong attendance from parish families, guests, and community friends. An evening auction was also planned as part of the festivities.

“Come one, come all.”

The bazaar received repeated mention in local notices, suggesting both the popularity of the event and the importance of church-centered social activities within the community.

Schools & Education

Students at Henry O. Peabody School celebrated Halloween with a lively party featuring creative costumes and entertainment.

The annual “horribles parade” drew considerable laughter and excitement as students appeared in costumes ranging from humorous to frightening. The event showcased student ingenuity and contributed to the festive seasonal atmosphere.

The Beauty Culture Department organized much of the afternoon’s entertainment, revealing what school correspondents described as surprising amounts of talent among the student body.

Miss Page directed decoration efforts, assisted by students from the Fashion Department who helped transform the cafeteria for the occasion.

Career education also received attention at the school. Miss Boody, serving as counselor, introduced students to employment opportunities by outlining work responsibilities, advancement possibilities, employee benefits, and the personal qualities necessary for promotion.

Accompanying her was Miss Margaret Collins, Assistant Treasurer of Rustcraft and a member of the business advisory committee supporting the school’s business program.

Students received copies of a booklet entitled The House That Sentiment Built, providing additional information regarding the company and related career opportunities.

Business & Commerce

The annual Community Chest Drive commenced at the Bird & Son Floor Covering Plant.

Drive chairman Joe Wall announced a campaign goal of $237, a figure equal to the highest total achieved by the division during any of the previous five years. Employees were encouraged to support the fundraising effort as part of the company’s contribution to community welfare organizations.

The presence of company-sponsored charitable drives reflected the continuing role of Norwood’s industrial employers in supporting local civic initiatives.

Community Temperature

As autumn gave way to the approach of winter, Norwood’s civic life remained vigorous. Labor organizations attended to municipal concerns, churches prepared for major fundraising events, industries launched charitable campaigns, schools balanced education with celebration, and veterans and service organizations continued to provide recreation and fellowship. The arrival of a young bride from Japan to make her home in Norwood added a particularly human note to a week marked by community spirit and neighborly welcome.

---

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Norwood Messenger