WILLETT SEEKS SENATE SEAT
Norwood Man Candidate as Democrat
GEORGE F. WILLETT
George F. Willett of Norwood, ex-millionaire manufacturer and member of the firm of Willett, Sears, today took out papers as a candidate for the State Senate, in the Norfolk-Middlesex District, on the Democratic ticket.
The announcement of Mr Willett’s candidacy came as a surprise to many voters of the town in which he lives and the district of which it is a part. Although Mr Willett has been for many years prominently identified with civic and municipal affairs in Norwood, he has never been active as a candidate for political office.
The Norfolk-Middlesex District is considered Republican. It includes the towns of Norwood, Dedham, Dover, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Needham. Norfolk, Wellesley, Walpole and Westwood in Norfok County, and the towns of Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick and Sherborn in Middlesex County. Norwood is the home of Gov Frank G. Allen, and Mr Willett is a brother-in-law of the Governor.
Mr Willett was born in Walpole, Aug 7, 1870, and was educated at Boston University. He was married to Miss Edith M. Winslow of Norwood In 1893.
Mr Willett is one of Norwood’s most prominent benefactors. He served on the Planning Board and was one of the founders of the town’s zoning system.
He organized the Norwood National Bank, now known as the Norwood Trust Company, and served as vice president of the institution. He was largely responsible for the adoption of the town manager form of Government and he also organized the Norwood Real Estate Company, later known as the Norwood Housing Association.
He formed the Norwood Civic Association and presented it with the clubhouse as a civic center. He was formerly president of the association. The organization was incorporated as a community center with a board of trustees for the welfare of the town.
Mr Willet also established the Corner House Hospital with its various clinics and correction work. This later became known as the Norwood Hospital. Willett Pond was another recreational project fostered by Mr Willett.
The present Senator in the Norfolk-Middlesex District is Samuel H. Wragg of Needham Heights, Republican.