Big Strides Made On Willett Beach Project-This Day in Norwood History-July 18, 1947

With well-driving operations now underway, General Manager Edward C. Monahan stated today that barring unforeseen difficulties, bathing facilities at Willett Pond are expected to be completed by the first of the month.

The work of driving the well was started Tuesday morning by the Hughes Construction Co, but an underground ledge was encountered at the first well location tried. As a result, the driving operations were moved to a spot closer to the pond in the hope that a water vein could be tapped there.

Manager Monahan stated that if the driven well method fails, it might be necessary to use an artesian well, “because we are determined that Norwood children shall have swimming there this year.”

Monahan pointed out that it was impossible to predict the exact date that the facilities would be ready, stating that difficulties might arise which would result in some further delay. In order to speed up the work, men of the construction crew were urged not to leave the job for the ride to town or their homes for lunch.

Instead, sandwiches and cold drinks were supplied to them when the lunch hour arrived and in appreciation of this courtesy they returned to their work after only a short rest period at noon-time. Electric power, it is stated can be carried to the pond on short notice.

Perhaps the most pleased man in Norwood yesterday was George F. Willett who is building the bath house and toilets at his own expense. He stated that the expense in setting up the building has run somewhat over S5000. and that he is glad to be able to make this contribution to the town’s recreation facilities.

(All articles were originally published in the Norwood Messenger unless otherwise noted)