Norwood Man Candidate as Democrat

GEORGE F. WILLETT

George F. Willett of Norwood, once a prominent manufacturer and former millionaire industrialist associated with the firm of Willett, Sears, formally entered the political arena today by taking out papers as a Democratic candidate for the State Senate in the Norfolk–Middlesex District. His decision to run marked a notable shift in local political dynamics, surprising many residents of the town he has long called home.

Although Mr. Willett has been deeply involved in Norwood’s civic and municipal development for decades, he has never before sought elected office. His candidacy therefore represents a significant moment in the town’s public life, particularly given the district’s longstanding reputation as a Republican stronghold. The Norfolk–Middlesex District encompasses the towns of Norwood, Dedham, Dover, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Needham, Norfolk, Wellesley, Walpole, and Westwood in Norfolk County, as well as Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, and Sherborn in Middlesex County. Norwood itself is also the home of Gov. Frank G. Allen, who is Mr. Willett’s brother‑in‑law, adding an additional layer of public interest to the announcement.

Born in Walpole on August 7, 1870, Mr. Willett received his education at Boston University. He married Edith M. Winslow of Norwood in 1893, establishing the family ties that would anchor his lifelong involvement in the town’s civic affairs.

Over the years, Mr. Willett has become one of Norwood’s most influential benefactors. He served on the Planning Board and played a foundational role in establishing the town’s zoning system. He organized the Norwood National Bank, later known as the Norwood Trust Company, where he served as vice president. His advocacy was instrumental in the adoption of the town manager form of government, and he also founded the Norwood Real Estate Company, which later became the Norwood Housing Association.

His civic contributions extended further with the formation of the Norwood Civic Association, to which he donated a clubhouse intended as a community center. He served as president of the association, which was later incorporated with a board of trustees dedicated to the town’s welfare.

In the realm of public health, Mr. Willett established the Corner House Hospital, which operated clinics and correctional programs before evolving into the modern Norwood Hospital. He also fostered the development of Willett Pond, a recreational resource that remains one of the town’s enduring amenities.

The current State Senator representing the Norfolk–Middlesex District is Samuel H. Wragg of Needham Heights, a Republican, setting the stage for a competitive and closely watched campaign as Mr. Willett steps forward as a Democratic challenger.

More…

This Day In Norwood History-August 11, 1939-State Department Report Maintains Willett Pond Bathing Satisfactory
This Day In Norwood History-August 10, 1939-Willett Discusses Park Properties
Tells Board Eight Houses In Construction; Asks Board’s Attitude George F. Willett, in a discussion of a residential program with the Norwood selectmen on Tuesday night, told the Board that it was essential to the carrying through of the Westover program that he have some indication of the Board’s attitude toward building of the higher…
This Day in Norwood History-July 16, 1938-Crosstown Highway Or Nahatan Street Extension?
June 17, 1938-Through an open letter to the Norwood Board of Selectmen released to the press, George F. Willett, as chairman of the town committee which prepared the town charter, has stated “that it was the intention of that committee that the town manager should carry certain defined responsibilities….
N. Y. Regional Plan Consultant Endorses Project When Dr. Timothy Adams, one of the world’s foremost authorities on regional and town planning, submitted his formal evaluation of the Westover development, it marked a turning point in Norwood’s understanding of what the project could become. Adams — the celebrated London planner responsible for the Regional Plan…
This Day in Norwood History-June 1, 1938-Committee Meet To Discuss Pond Property Status
In this letter sent to the Norwood Messenger, George F. Willett recounts his early life and tells how his fortune was made in his own words.
After Living In Norwood For Eighty Years, John Gillooly Picks The Six Men Who Led In The Town’s Development—Each Named “George” Eighty years ago, on July 2 and Sept. 9, 1855, two babies were born in a little cottage down a lane off Railroad Avenue. The house belonged to Richard Oldham the First. John Gillooly…
George F. Willett, one of Norwood’s most influential civic figures, surprised the region in 1930 by launching a State Senate campaign.