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.

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NORWOOD, Oct 2—The Norwood Committee of Public Safety has opened the clubhouse of the Norwood Civic Association as an emergency hospital, the clubhouse having been offered for that purpose by George F. Willett, president of the association. Dr. L. H. Plimpton is in charge and Mrs. Marcia M. Winslow is superintendent. There is a corps…
Masons To Buy Day St Lot-This Day in Norwood History- September 19, 1915
Would Remedy Long Routing of Freight for Nearby Places. All Transportation to Be Under One Company. NORWOOD. Feb 3—The establishment of a Greater Boston terminal zone and the taking over under one operating company of all the transportation problems within that zone—such was the generous program offered by George F. Willett of the Norwood Civic…
Norwood Will Change To Town Manager Government-This Day in Norwood History-October 11, 1914
NORWOOD. Maas., Oct. 7. The business of this town will be conducted hereafter by a general manager, the citizens having voted last night for a change in the plan of government. Under the pew plan, five selectmen will be elected, and they will choose a manager whose duties will include supervision of the poor, highway,…
Membership Campaign Ends With a Total of 1021. Three Thousand Join in Grand Celebration. NORWOOD. Jan 2 — The successful outcome of the campaign for 1000 members before Jan 1 by the George F. Willett was celebrated by that organization last evening by keeping an open house. Over 3000 members and guests were present, and…
CORNER HOUSE TO OPEN. Norwood Civic Association’s Novel Feature Will Be Officially Dedicated Tomorrow. Aug 30, 1913—One of the notable Innovations of the Norwood Civic Association will begin its work Monday, Sept 1, when the building known as the Corner House will be opened officially. The Corner House is believed to be the only thing…
Paul Ellis’ tavern, situated on the Norfolk and Bristol Turnpike between Boston to Providence (now Washington st), brought stagecoach passengers and their drivers to his door and tap room regularly. A large hook on a post in front of the tavern allowed drivers to throw their reigns over easily when they arrived and also became…
George F. Willett, a Well-Known Business Man, Has Built Up in Norwood a Civic Center With a Membership of 700, Which Is Doing Much to Wipe Out Class Distinction, Sometimes Found in Manufacturing Centers— The Association Has a Fine Group of Buildings, Extensive Playgrounds, and Instruction in Domestic Science and Sanitary Living Is Given—Mr. Willett…
Will Occupy Plant Provided by George F. Willett The set of buildings generously provided by George F. Willett for the Norwood Civic association will be opened tomorrow for the use of the members. B. Howell Wright is the general sec, Abraham J. Somes, asst sec and Robert Gourlie gymnasium director. The entire building will be…