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.

Norwood Baseball History

Norwood Baseball History

georgenhs Apr 20, 2026 0 min read

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The Naming of Norwood: A Story with More Questions Than Answers

The Naming of Norwood: A Story with More Questions Than Answers

georgenhs Apr 8, 2026 5 min read

Where did our wonderful town get its name? The question of how Norwood received its name has intrigued residents for more than 150 years. It is one of those local … Continue reading The Naming of Norwood: A Story with…

Top Posts-March 2026

Top Posts-March 2026

georgenhs Mar 31, 2026 0 min read

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In Memory of Timothy J. McDonough (February 21, 1965 – March 12, 2026)

In Memory of Timothy J. McDonough (February 21, 1965 – March 12, 2026)

georgenhs Mar 12, 2026 9 min read

A Life of Service, Community, and Unwavering Norwood Pride On March 12, 2026, the Town of Norwood lost one of its most dedicated public servants and most beloved neighbors with … Continue reading In Memory of Timothy J. McDonough (February…

Day Street

Day Street

georgenhs Feb 1, 2026 3 min read

Day Street is one of Norwood’s richest historic corridors, home to some of the town’s most architecturally significant and culturally meaningful properties. Each house tells a different chapter of Norwood’s … Continue reading Day Street


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