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.
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Top This Day in Norwood History Posts-May 2026 From Prohibition‑era liquor raids to championship seasons, neighborhood histories, and lives of service, May’s most‑read stories trace Norwood’s character across more than … Continue reading Top Posts-May 2026
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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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Discover more from Norwood Historical Society
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