A Few Items Concerning the History of the Norwood Brass Band-This Day in Norwood History-June 14, 1891

The annual meeting of the Band took place in Hartshorn’s Hall, May 11, 1872. Geo. W. Lewis was elected Leader, F. D. Draper, second leader, H. F. Shattuck, clerk and treasurer. On July 1st, the Band played in Boston for the Shamrock Society at the reception of the Irish Band that took part in Gilmore’s Great Peace Jubilee. The interest among the members continued, and several engagements were filled. Dec. 3, Freeman Courtney became a member, and Fred Boyden joined Jan. 18 of the next year. On the evening of July 3rd, the Band played in front of Village Hall on the occasion of an entertainment given by the scholars of the Everett School to raise money for the new High School.

In November the place of meeting was changed to G A. R. Post Hall. In the course of events, several numbers having withdrawn, and the interest lessening, it was thought best to adjourn indefinitely, subject to the call of a committee, consisting of A. G. Webb, Geo. W. Lewis and F.D. Draper. An adjournment was accordingly made June 3, 1874, the committee having charge ol the property of the Band.

On Sept 6, 1875, after a rest of over a year, a meeting was again called, and E. L. Small was chosen as street leader, F. D. Draper, director, Geo. K. Draper, clerk and treasurer. Around this time the Maverick Cornet Band, of East Dedham, disbanded, some of the members united with the Norwood Band. E L. Small, a former leader of the Mavericks, being among the number. From this time on for several years the doings of the Band were not recorded, but several changes occurred during that time.

In the spring of 1884, the Band took a fresh start once more. Prof John M ! Flockton was engaged as an instructor since which time marked progress has been made. What the Norwood Brass Band is today is the result of the instruction given by Prof. Flockton.

At the annual ball of this year the members wore their new uniforms, which were very pleasing to all.

Prof. Flockton remained an instructor until about three years ago when Prof B F. Colburn was engaged, which office he is acceptably filling at the present time. Needing more and better accommodations than their place of meeting afforded Inst spring the Band decided to put up a small building for its own use. This was accordingly done, and the friends of the Band, wishing to show their appreciation, presented the furnishings of the hall These, together with several other useful and needed articles, have made a band room such as few hands have the pleasure of meeting in.

During all these years only one active member has died, and nearly all the original members are alive. With the present efficient instructor and management, a bright and prosperous future may be looked for.

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