The January 1971 fire at Norwood’s Junior High School was a major attraction. Hundreds of people braved freezing cold temperatures to stand in ankle-deep snow to watch the blaze, so it’s no surprise that the article about the fire is one of the most popular on our list. it was the largest local fire seen in Norwood in decades, according to Deputy Fire Chief Leo Coughlin.
To accommodate the 750 displaced students, Superintendent of Schools, Philip O. Coakley, was forced to begin double sessions at the Junior High North, which had opened the previous year.
An investigation showed that the cause was arson, with fires started in at least 3 different places on the second and third floors. The cost of the damage was estimated at close to $2 million.
Dean Street Elderly Housing Project Refiled Under Chapter 40B as Board Seeks Attorney General Zoning Ruling-August 23, 1977
Developer Richard Vazza refiles his $2 million Dean Street elderly housing complex under Massachusetts Chapter 40B anti-snob zoning laws. The Norwood Appeals Board seeks an emergency ruling from the state attorney general to clarify conflicting zoning use variance powers.
Norwood Scrapbook-August 3
A comprehensive daily compilation of historical news from Norwood, Massachusetts on August 3. Featuring stories of town planning, public safety efforts, regional transportation, local achievements, and community concert traditions.
Traffic Concerns Stall Zoning Board Hearing on Proposed Caldor Shopping Center on Route 1-July 30, 1980
A zoning board hearing for the proposed $3 million Caldor shopping center on Route 1 was continued to August 19 as developers Bronson & Hutensky worked to finalize safe traffic access through Park Place Industrial Park.
Library Throws Book at Woman in Norwood-July 27, 1984
Susan Andrews became the first person arrested in Norwood for failing to return overdue books to the Morrill Memorial Library.
Appeals Board Postpones Decision On Norwood Golf Course Proposal-July 26, 1973
The Norwood appeals board postponed a decision on developer Frank R. Simoni’s proposed 97-acre golf course near Access Road, requesting a certified site plan.
Discover more from Norwood Historical Society
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.





