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.
Racing Enterprise Threatens Legal Action Over Easement and Drag‑Racing Ban-This Day In Norwood History-June 12, 1969
A token $1 deal turned into a high-stakes legal battle. In June 1969, the owners of the iconic Norwood Arena threatened to sue the town, claiming a new drag racing ban and a massive power line easement were designed to…
Norwood’s Art Gulla Stepping Down After Two Decades‑This Day In Norwood History‑May 28, 1971
The end of a gridiron era. In the spring of 1971, Art Gulla announced his resignation as head football coach of the Norwood Mustangs after nine seasons at the helm and nearly two decades in the program. A former 1949…
Top Posts-April 2026
Top This Day in Norwood History Posts-April 2026 April brought a remarkable mix of Norwood stories to the forefront—historic milestones, neighborhood memories, architectural treasures, and snapshots of everyday life that … Continue reading Top Posts-April 2026
Norwood Baseball History
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The Naming of Norwood: A Story with More Questions Than Answers
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…
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