Lucius Beebe Memorial Library, Wakefield, Mass.

Items

• Lane's Drug Store, 1950
  "Lane's Drug Store was located in the new business block at the corner of Albion and Main Streets during the early 1940s. The store was similar to today's drug stores that sell health and beauty products such as Vaseline and rubbing alcohol, along with sundry items like beach balls and ice trays. Formerly Bonney & Dutton, the drug store was razed and a new building erected in 1940 by its new owners, LeBlanc and Logan. The new Bonney & Dutton Drug Store opened in March 1941, only to be bought at auction by Himmel Drug of Lynn and Salem in January 1942. Lane's Drug bought the business in March 1944, with Ames Drug becoming the new owner in 1957." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Lakeside, circa 1912
  "This 1912 Model T Roadster is parked on Main Street near the Fitz residence at Lakeside. The car may have been owned by Dr. Joseph Heath, a resident and physician whose automobiles were frequently photographed in Wakefield, or to the Purrington family who also owned one of the town's first automobiles. The Fitz residence was built somewhere around 1894 by Peter S. Roberts, a retired Boston merchant, on the site that was once occupied by the home of John White, Sr., and Mary Eaton (White) Aborn. That house was moved to Aborn Avenue. After Roberts' death, his mansion was sold to David Slade, a spice manufacturer. Slade's daughter, Adeline F. Fitz, sold it to the Wakefield Lodge, No. 1276, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, in May 1914. It served as the Elks Home until 1956." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Lakeside Cemetery Chapel, circa 1932
  "The Lakeside Cemetery Chapel on North Avenue was built in the late 1930's, and, according to its architect, it was designed to be a 'beautiful and dignified' setting for funeral services. It was located on the 'spacious lawn, east of the new driveway, set back 100 feet from the highway.' Of English Gothic style with a slate roof, the chapel's exterior walls are granite faced in warm shades of color 'and laid in a coursed random pattern, together with dressed stone trim and stone tracery windows.' The building was designed to accommodate 100 people in pews with a wide center aisle. When built, the front of the chapel contained an altar which had a carved reredos (an overhanging shelf) with a gold banded blue velour curtain. A 'triple Gothic stone tracery window' filled with leaded glass was placed above the altar. An area for the organ was to the right of the chancel, separated by an open tracery screen, and to its right was a separate area for the family, away from the main chapel. Intricate details also graced the interior walls which were of gray buff brick, trimmed with dressed stone, and oak dado, paneling and floors. The floors in the vestibule were of heather brown quarry tile. Specially designed wrought iron lighting fixtures and hardware were located throughout the building, and the plumbing, heating and electrical systems were all 'modern.' Architectural reports of the time indicated that the 'chapel will meet a long-felt need and will be of increasing use and pride to Wakefield people for many years to come.' The rear of the building housed the cemetery superintendent's office." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Lake Quannapowitt, a changing landscape
  "It's hard to imagine Lake Quannapowitt without the office complexes and homes which dot the landscape. Yet it wasn't that long ago that the Beebe family home was one of the few homes on the lake's shore. The Beebe Farm was built in 1810 as one of the last works of Samuel McIntire of Salem. Originally built as a gentleman's farm, the house was purchased by Lucius Beebe, a prominent businessman who founded Lucius Beebe & Sons Leather Merchants (Boston), Lucius Beebe & Sons Lumber (Boston) and Lucius Beebe & Sons Cotton (New Orleans). The Beebe Farm boasted old-fashioned flower and vegetable gardens, along with over 100 milking cows, stable horses, truck gardens and acres of woodland. Today Beebe's Cove remains one of the most picturesque areas in Wakefield. The landscape of Lake Quannapowitt was altered in the mid-1950s with the construction of the American Mutual Liability Insurance Company. Officially dedicated in October 1958, American Mutual was designed by Chester Churchill and was warmly accepted by both townspeople and town officials. When it opened, the company employed closed to 1000 people. The building and its land was purchased in 1987 by the Beal Company who plans to redesign and rebuild the property." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. Beebe's Cove today. -- 2. Beebe's Cove was named for the Beebe Farm, the only home in the vicinity for a number of years. A lone car rides along Main Street in the cove area in 1900. -- 3. Lake Quannapowitt has always provided hours of entertainment for local residents, as pictured in this 1930 photograph. Pre-American Mutual, residents were afforded an ample view of the Lake's shore. -- 4. Lake Quannapowitt has still retained its beauty throughout the years. American Mutual Liability Company provides a backdrop.
• Lafayette Building, Wakefield High School, 1907
  "Wakefield Town Meeting voted on April 3, 1871 to consider building a new high school to replace the South Reading Academy (site of the current Lincoln School) which had outgrown its usefulness. This task was assigned to a committee of five: Cyrus Wakefield, Lucius Beebe, Oliver Perkins, Richard Britton and George Packard. in May, Town meeting voted to purchase the old Prentiss property at the northwest corner of Lafayette and Common Streets. The property was once home to Rev. Caleb Prentiss, the seventh minister of the First Parish Congregational Church, who served from 1769 to 1803. The Prentiss house was moved to Traverse Street before the high school's groundbreaking in October 1871. The house fell victim to several fires over the years, and was eventually gutted by a fire. The high school was completed at a reported cost of $59,700 and was dedicated on October 10, 1872 in a ceremony presided over by J.S. Eaton, Esq. In his report to the Town in early 1873, School Committee Chairman Charles R. Bliss noted that the 'building, though larger than present needs require, will doubtless be none too large for our necessities in the future.' In 1900, the Town appropriated $15,000 to enlarge the school. The addition of 'six cheerful and commodious rooms to the old school building' was designed by Harland A. Perkins, an 1896 graduate of the school, and was completed at a cost of $12,000. The building remained as the high school until 1923 when a new school was built on Main Street. The building housed all eighth grade students, with the exception of the Greenwood students. It was renamed the Lafayette Builing and later referred to as the Junior High School. When the eighth graders returned to their neighborhood schools in 1936, control of the Lafayette building was transferred to the general use of the Town. The building was remodeled for municipal and veterans purposes in 1937 as part of a WPA project." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Ladies' Day at the Wakefield Elks Home, circa 1915
  "The Wakefield Lodge of Elks dedicated its 'handsome new home at Lakeside' on May 20, 1914. The festivities were attended by approximately 200 Wakefield and out-of-town members of the order. The festivities were led by Ex-mayor Charles Barton of Melrose, deputy grand exalted ruler of the district. Following the dedication ceremonies, the visiting officers were entertained on the third floor of the home, while the members and other guests retreated to the large stable which was later to become a lodge room. The Elks' Home was formerly the Fitz residence. The organization had its home on Main Street until 1956." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• L.B. Evans, Water Street, 1919
  "Lucius Bolles Evans began making shoes in 1831 at the early age of 12. He started his own shoemaking business in 1841 in a building at the rear of a dwelling house at 9 Salem Street. At the time, cutting and finishing were performed in the shoemaking shops the shoes were stitched and made into shoes in the kitchens of employees scattered throughout the town. Lucius' son, Harvey B. Evans, joined the business in February 1881, just three months before his father's death. The first factory was built across the street, at 8 Salem Street, in 1884. The company, L.B. Evans' Son, moved to Water Street in 1894, at the site of the Episcopal Church which had moved to its present location at the corner of Main and Bryant Streets. Harvey Evans' sons incorporated the company as L.B. Evans' Son Company in June 1905 following their father's death the previous March. The 12,800 sq. ft. factory was enlarged in 1904 (to 46,400 sq. ft.), and again in 1914 (to 67,400 sq. ft.). There were many more additions to the building over the years, the last in 1968, which brought the total square footage to 117,000 sq. ft. The company was best known for its slippers and casual shoes. L.B. Evans was sold in 1979 to the Anwalt Corporation of Fitchburg. Operations a the Wakefield plant began to be phased out in 1980, eventually closing in 1987." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• L.B. Evans
  "Early Wakefield was known as an industrial community, linked to the city of Boston by the Boston and Maine Railroad. One of the industries that flourished in the late 1800s and into the mid 1900s was the L.B. Evans Son Co. Shoe Manufacturers which was in operation until the early 1980s. The L.B. Evans Building was built in 1893, although the Evans family began making footwear in 1805 at home shops located throughout the town. The first real 'factory' was on Salem Street at the home built by Lucius Bolles Evans for his bride and was officially established in 1841. The Water Street factory built in 1893 measured 60' by 40', was three stories in height and employed 80 people. A 40' addition and a fourth story were added in 1903 with further additions made in 1911 and 1920. The company was once recognized as the oldest shoe manufacturing concern in the United States and the oldest industry in Wakefield. The company and its building was purchased by a Fitchburg Company in 1979 and the company slowly phased out its operation. Today the site is the home of Warner Cable Communications and the Wakefield Technology Center, an office complex with an underground garage." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. The L.B. Evans' Son Company in 1933 was employed to thousands of Wakefield and Wakefield area residents. The company manufactured a complete line of shoes and men's slippers. -- 2. The site is now an office complex and has been thoroughly modernized.
• Kurrachee rugs, Wakefield Rattan Company, Arthur Dulong, driver, circa 1890s
  "Although the Wakefield Rattan Company was best known for first manufacturing rattan into skirt reeds and baskets, and later into cane for chair seats, chairs, car seats, cradles, flower stands and a host of other diverse items, the company also made rugs at the Water Street site. When Cyrus Wakefield bought the land on Water Street in 1855, just east of the Center Train Depot, the site consisted of a few small buildings, including Green's grist mill, and two mill ponds. The company continued to grow over the next two decades, factory buildings were added, and the Wakefield Rattan Company was organized in 1873, just a few months before Wakefield's sudden death. At the time of his death, the manufactories and storehouses covered an area of 10 acres of flooring, and more than 1,000 men and women were employed. Although the company lost many of its original buildings in a fire on March 12, 1881, the rebuilding was swift and the company continued to thrive. There were five main four-story brick factory buildings. Building number four was used exclusively for the weaving of rugs and mats, and for storing of dyestuffs. There were approximately 30 factory buildings on the 11-acre site during its heyday. the company merged with Heywood Brothers and Company and the Heywood and Morrill Rattan Company in 1897 and became known as the Heywood-Wakefield Company." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Junius Beebe's farm, 1908
  "Mr. Daley, foreman, and three of his workers, stand amid the 12-foot high cornstalks in the Beebe cornfield. It was reported that the corn grown on the farm was a perennial prize winner at the annual Reading-Wakefield Fair. Built in 1810, the Beebe farmhouse was designed as a 'gentleman's estate' for a member of the Forrester family of Salem. The house was purchased by Lucius Beebe in 1852. The farm, with its vegetable and flower gardens, milking cows and horses, flourished in the late 1800's and early 1900's under Junius Beebe's supervision. The eighth son of Lucius and Sylenda (Morris) Beebe, he was the first of their children to 'come into the world beneath the roof of the new homestead.' It was Junius who added considerably to the estate's acreage and increased its productivity." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Junction railroad station, circa 1907
  "The Wakefield Junction Railroad Station, the smaller of the two buildings, was, at one time, one of six train stations in town that serviced the Boston and Maine Railroad. The station was located near the intersection of Main Street and Railroad Avenue (North Avenue) and serviced riders on the Boston and Maine Portland Division. The tracks to the left led to the Upper Station where riders could travel all the way to Portland, Maine, while the ones to the right led to the Centre Station on Water Street where travelers could travel to Peabody and Salem via the South Reading Branch, or Danvers via the Newburyport Branch. According to published reports, the station was remodeled into a house that was located 'on the east side of Main Street on the town (north) side of Franklin Street.' The larger of the two buildings was the old locomotive house of the Boston and Maine and South Reading branch. It was later torn down." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• July 4, 1889
  "This gentleman was captured by the photographer in 1889, under the South Reading town banner which was originally carried in the July 4th, 1844, birthday celebration. The banner reads, 'Protection to our manufacturers - razor straps (strops) - shoe tools - bitters - boots - shoes - tin ware.' The musket and powder horn were originally carried in the Revolutionary War, while it is claimed that the tin lantern was one of the lanterns which hung at the Old North Church on the night of April 18, 1775, for Paul Revere's signal to 'Ride and spread the alarm through every Middlesex village and farm.' The present Wakefield town seal was adopted in 1878." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Joseph C. Payro
  "Wakefield's history has been captured by many individuals over the years, one of whom was Joseph C. Payro of 17 Curtis Street. Mr. Payro was well informed on the history of Wakefield and sought to capture the town's history through the paintbrush and the camera lens. Although not a native of Wakefield, he was a resident for over 70 years. He grew to love the community and became a student of its past. As a member of the Wakefield Historical Society, he created oil paintings of old buildings and landmarks, many of which are no longer standing, to preserve for future generations. He painted his pictures with photograph-like attention, paying close attention to detail. Mr. Payro was employed as a reed worker for the Heywood-Wakefield Company and took many photographs of the company products which now serve as a historical reference source. Following Mr. Payro's death in 1953 his family donated several of his paintings to the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library's permanent art collection. Mr. Payro's family and family friend Louis Picardi have been generous contributors of photographs for this calendar." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• John J. Round
  "John J. Round was one of Wakefield's foremost benefactors and leading citizens and was primarily responsible for the Crystal Lake area as we know it today. Born in East Boston on September 30, 1872, Mr. Round moved to Wakefield in 1878 and was a resident of 627 Main Street for many years until moving to 7 Francis Avenue. Mr. Round is best known for his generous donations of land to preserve the beauty of the community. He was also active in local affairs, serving as a member and former Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, Chairman of the Building Committee for the Atwell Junior High School, Trustee of the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library, President of the Wakefield Club, President of the Wakefield Improvement Association, and a director of the Wakefield Trust Company. He was also active on many boards and committees through the years. He presented several gifts to the community over the years including thousands of trees which he donated to beautify the town and protect the watershed around Crystal Lake. 10,000 trees were donated for the west shore of Crystal Lake on land which he bought and deeded to the town, 3,000 trees for the Mapleway Playground on abandoned land which he also bought and gave to the town, trees around Main Street and the Junction station on land which he eventually bought and gave to the town, pine trees at the foot of Crystal Lake, trees to replace those lost in Greenwood during the hurricane of 1938, and two large elms which were lost when the present Junior High School was built. Mr. Round also donated several additional acres of land around Crystal Lake which prevented encroachment of residential property and preserved the natural beauty of the lake. He was responsible for the wide width of Main Street south of Water Street after having convinced the town to move a retaining wall in front of the armory (now the Americal Civic Center) back nearly 20 feet. He also built the retaining wall which graces the front of the park which bears his name. In 1953, the community immortalized Mr. Round by dedicating the former Harts Hill Reservation in his name. Mr. Round passed away in April, 1958." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• J.J. Newberry Co. fire, December 4, 1938
  "A general alarm fire early on Sunday morning, December 4th caused an estimated $50,000 damage to the J.J. Newberry Store in the Trader's Block on Main Street. Firefighters were joined by crews from Melrose, Stoneham and Reading in battling the stubborn fire, which 'lacked the spectacular features of a general alarm fire.' Reserveman Harold Maloney discovered smoke coming from the freight elevator on the sidewalk in front of the Main Street store just after 4 a.m. The fire started in the basement, causing smoke damage to several adjoining businesses, including the J.B. Blood Co., and Bud's Apparel Shop, as well as the businesses on the second floor: Scott Bullard Taxi quarters, Bernice Fitzgerald Dancing Studio, Delphina Beauty Shop, and the law office of Christopher Dinan. More than 20 firefighters were overcome by fumes from the celluloid novelties and cellpohane wrappings which had just arrived for the Christmas season. During the early hours of the fire, an estimated 3,000 spectators 'packed' the east side of Main Street to watch the firefighters. By daybreak, less than 500 remained." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Ira Wiley House - Main Street, circa 1896
  "The Ira Wiley House was located on the west side of Main Street at the site of the present Traders' Block. The house was moved further back on the lot shortly after the photo was taken, to accommodate the Traders' Block which was built for the Middlesex Traders in 1897. The Ira Wiley House was operated as a boarding house where residents could 'board by the day or week.' It was conveniently located next to the Wakefield & Stoneham Street Railway Company office and waiting room. It is reported that the family was active in business, with a relative of Ira Wiley the proprietor of a shoe store at the corner of Main and Mechanic Street. The house was razed in 1930, when the Traders' Block was remodeled and enlarged for the J.J. Newbury Co. store." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Intersection of North Avenue and Albion Street, June 24, 1930
  "Although the building at the right rear of the photograph remains standing, the building which housed Roche's Hardware/Houseware and the adjoining one which housed First National Stores and Beasley's Variety Store were torn down. The site was the location of a gas station before it was occupied by the present business. The South Reading Mechanic and Agricultural Institution, incorporated in 1833, and the South Reading Bank, organized in 1854, both occupied the second floor of the building at left. Everett W. Eaton opened a grocery store in 1864 where he conducted business for nearly 50 years. Roche's Hardware/Houseware later occupied the site and remained there for several years. The store's window displays advertised radio supplies, sporting goods and cutlery, while Beasley's Variety Store advertised its many wares in the local newspapers. One such advertisement offered sleds, skis and childrens' snow shovels." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hurricane damage, 29 Lafayette Street, September 21, 1938
  "Wakefield was hit by the tail-end of a southern hurricane during the early evening hours of Wednesday, September 21, 1938. Although the day's hard-driving rain stopped shortly after 5 p.m., the high winds picked up and battered the town, causing substantial damage and downed trees until 7 p.m. Gales were reported to be 90-100 miles per hour. During the two hours of fierce winds, several hundred trees, many over 200 years old, were uprooted and blown down, blocking streets and causing damage to homes and businesses. Town officials and workers, joined by WPA forces, worked throughout the night to clear trees from the roads. They succeeded in opening nearly all roads by 8 a.m. the following day. Three streets remained closed until the afternoon hours. Those streets were Lafayette, Bartley and Orchard Streets. This elm in front of 29 Lafayette Street, the home of William E. Jones, 'toppled over, coming to rest on the roof of the home.' Crews using hand saws climbed into the tree to remove the tree, one limb at a time. The damage also included many downed electrical wires which were repaired by the MLD. School children were given the day off by School Superintendent Willard B. Atwell because of the large number of fallen wires." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hughes Garage, Main Street at Armory Street, circa 1915
  "Joe Hughes, center, and mechanic 'Bucky' Bartlett, second from right, at Hughes Garage, which was built around 1910, before Armory Street existed. Hughes, reported to be the first person in Wakefield to own a car, also owned the Town's first garage and automobile agency. In 1909, he petitioned the Selectmen for a permit to establish a 42' x 75' garage at 503 Main Street because his repair shop on Center Street was 'wholly inadequate.' He also wanted to give the town 'an up-to-date garage.' He owned the garage until 1920 when it was purchased by David Barry. Barry's Garage was enlarged in 1922 with a new building erected on land south of the garage and to the rear, which necessitated the purchase and razing of the Abram Sweetser house. This enlargement occurred at the same time that Main Street was to be widened and a curve in the road straightened to accommodate the high school (present Galvin Middle School), and shortly after Armory Street was extended to Main Street. The new garage was built of tapestry brick, the same used in the high school and the armory (present Civic Center). It was built to hold 125 pleasure cars for storage, repair facilities and a raised showroom on Armory Street to display the latest models of the Buick line of automobiles. A 50' x 98' addition was added at a cost of $15,000 in 1925. A 'granolithic' sidewalk along Armory Street to the rear of the building was also constructed. Business for the Barrys increased and they built similar facilities in other towns, eventually getting out of the business in early February, 1932. The property was sold to Boston automobile dealer, J.W. Walker. The Barrys moved their business across the street at 510 Main Street two weeks later as Barry's Motor Parts." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Howlett's Mill, Wakefield/Saugus line, circa 1901
  "Howlett's Mill was one of many mills located on the 13-mile long Saugus River, beginning at Lake Quannapowitt. The river passes through Wakefield, Lynnfield, Saugus and Lynn and was a vital part of the economy for centuries. The river, with its eight tributaries, was instrumental in fish harvesting and was the source of water power for the Saugus Iron Works, as well as many grist mills, chocolate mills, wool and flannel mills, and a tannery that were established aloing the river. The first saw mill in Wakefield was built by John Poole on the west side of Vernon Street. The mill site was later given to the town by Harriett Potter, along with the mill rights, in 1924." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Howard Johnson's Lakeside, circa 1936
  "Howard Johnson's ice cream stand and restaurant opened for business and restaurant opened for business on June 14, 1936, at the head of Lake Quannapowitt. The popular roadside 'stand' was built by Pasquale DeCristofaro (formerly of Wakefield) on the site of the former Wes Parker clam stand when that eatery moved across the street. On opening day, area residents flocked to the restaurant in droves, creating traffic jams for the five Wakefield policemen who were on duty for the opening. When the restaurant closed at 10 p.m. that evening, more than 900 chicken dinners, 1,150 gallons of ice cream, and 4,500 frankfurters (their specialty) were served throughout the 11 hours. The restaurant closed in October, 1954, and enjoyed a 'good reputation' for many years. After Howard Johnson's, the site was occupied by the Lakeside Villa and Lanai Island." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Horse drawn ladder truck, Wakefield rattan factory, 1900
  "The Wakefield Fire Department purchased its first horse-drawn ladder truck from the Abbot-Downing Company of Concord, New Hampshire in 1892, replacing an 1871 hand-drawn ladder truck. The new truck was placed into service on July 4, 1893 with its predecessor loaned to the Wakefield Rattan Company. The horse-drawn ladder truck is shown without its ladders at a fire at the factory on May 4, 1900. The 'Washington Hook and Ladder,' a double-ladder bank, city-service truck, was used by the Hook and Ladder Company No.1. The horse-drawn truck was spared from the Hathaway Stable Fire that destroyed 18 buildings including the Central Fire Station in October 23, 1899, along with its fire alarm system, 1852 Jeffers hand tub, and 1895 supply wagon. It was among the first inhabitants of the new brick Central Fire Station on Crescent Street when it opened on December 22, 1900. The 1892 Abbot-Downing ladder truck was replaced in September, 1914 by a Peerless city-service type ladder truck." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Holy Mary del Carmine Society Chapel, 1923
  "The Holy Mary del Carmine Society chapel and meeting-house at 94 Water Street was officially dedicated on August 8, 1923. The chapel was built by the Santissima Maria del Carmine Society to enable Catholic Italians to practice their faith in their own neighborhood. St. Joseph's Band and members of the building committee led a parade to the chapel. The exercises were opened by Nicola Pirro, chairman of the dedication committee, who 'spoke to the society members in their native tongue, emphasizing the importance of continuing the co-operative spirit that made the building possible.' He also 'appealed to the public in general to avail itself of the other use of the building in any manner which tended toward the uplifting, educating, and Americanizing of their fellow countrymen.' Guest speakers included Rev. John F. Meheran who represented Rev. Florence J. Halloran, pastor of St. Joseph's parish Selectman Charles F. Young Attorney Christopher Dinan, who acted as legal advisor to the society Major Samuel Brooks Police Chief James J. Pollard John MacGillvray Edward B. Kelly Patrick McLaughlin and John T. Stringer. Following the speeches, a reception was held in the basement with selections played by St. Joseph's Band. 'Mary SS del Carmine Society March,' composed for the occasion by bandleader Michael Sibelli with words by Nicola Pierra, was played for the first time at the dedication. Local electrical contractor Joseph W. McInnis supervised the building construction. The building was constructed of concrete blocks 'about 40 feet x 60 feet' with an upper hall used on Sundays for religious services. The hall could seat 300 with a lower hall of the same size that was used as a meeting place. The title to the building and land was transferred to the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Boston. On April 24, 1947, as the Catholic population grew, the mission chapel of St. Joseph Parish became a part of St. Florence Parish, named in honor of Rev. Florence Halloran. On May 22, 1959, a 5.9-acre parcel was purchased on Butler Avenue. The first Mass in the new church building was celebrated on Christmas Eve, 1960." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hitchcock Bicycle Shop, circa 1919
  "Ed Hitchcock, right, owner of the E.S. Hitchcock Bicyle Shop, joins an unidentified employee in his 34 Albion Street shop. Located at the corner of Albion and Foster Streets, the shop also sold automoble tires and other supplies. In 1919, Wakefield automobile owners could buy a 30 x 3 1/2 non-skid Firestone tire for $17, and a 30 x 3 1/2 non-skid Fisk or Ajax for $18. All tires came with a 6000 mile guarantee." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hill's Boathouse, circa 1930's
  "In 1872, Albert S. Wiley established a one-story boathouse at the end of Spaulding Street to accommodate the many boaters who enjoyed sailing, rowing and canoeing on Lake Quannapowitt. In 1887, the Wiley's [sic] erected a new, one-story boathouse at the end of Lake Street. The building received a second story in 1912, which housed a dance hall and soda fountain, frequented by servicemen stationed at Camp Curtis Guild during World War I. The boathouse was sold to the Hill Family in 1923. The Hills were provided with an inventory of their purchase: 80 public canoes, 43 private canoes (with 4 in the shop), 21 public rowboats, three private rowboats, one sailboat, one power boat, one private power boat, 109 rugs (for the canoes), 84 cushions, 153 pillows, 83 paddles, and 57 oars. The boathouse did a 'thriving business for several years, prior to the widespread use of the automobile, summer camps, vacation trips, the upsurge of the summer resort business and other forms of recreational and time consuming competition.' In addition to the boat facilities, the building housed the Quannapowitt Yacht Club for several years. When sold to the Town in 1963, the property was referred to as 'a large two-story wooden structure...the first floor of which is occupied by the storage, sale and rental of canoes and boating equipment, a sales and display room, a luncheonette counter in the southeast corner, a service shop for outboard motors and motorboats the second floor being used in its entirety for public dancing and ballroom purposes.' The boathouse was taken down shortly after the Town's purchase. To the right of the boathouse stood the Morrill-Atwood Ice Company." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hiker Monument and Rockery, circa 1926
  "The Hiker Monument and Rockery, a memorial to the men who fought in the Spanish-American War, was dedicated at the rockery on Columbus Day, October 12, 1926. The monument was erected after a Town Meeting vote in the spring of 1926 to appropriate $5,000 to honor the veterans. Theodore [i.e. Theo Alice Ruggles] Kitson's Hiker was typical of the 'infantry men.' of 1898. The Town celebration included a parade and the dedication, rifle contests at Camp Curtis Guild, a reunion of Spanish-American War Veterans of Company A and the 'Old Sixth Regiment,' a banquet celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Richardson Light Guard, and an evening parade on the Common, featuring battalions of infantry for the review of the Spanish War veterans. The event was said to be the biggest celebration since the Town's 250th anniversary festivities in 1894. The parade stepped off at 2 p.m. from the Armory, traveling a route that took the marchers along Main Street to Chestnut Street, North Avenue, Avon Street, Main Street, Park Street, Pleasant Street, White Avenue, to Lakeside to the monument via Main Street. Over 2,000 people attended the dedication. The evening parade on the common featured the 182nd Infantry, Company E of Wakefield, Company F of Waltham, Company G of Woburn, and Company M of Everett. The anniversary banquet at the Armory was attended by 400 guests and was the largest gathering since the dedication of the Armory in 1913." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Highway Department garage, North Avenue, 1930
  "The Highway Department was one of several public works-related departments that operated independently of one another. In 1812, there were three Surveyors of Highways and by the end of the 1800s, the Town was separated into sections, with one person responsible for repairs and maintenance of the streets in each section. By the early 1900s, the work was overseen by the Superintendent of Streets. A metal building, manufactured and erected in 1928 by the Wakefield Garage Manufacturing Company, was located at the rear of the highway lot on North Avenue and used for storage purposes. In 1930, the wagon shed at the yard was converted into a six-stall garage, and the lantern room at the end of the wagon shed was made into an office. The second floor of the barn was altered with an office built in the front part of the building and a stock and tool room in the back. On June 12, 1950 a special election was held to elect the first Board of Public Works, a board created by an Act of the Massachusetts Legislature which stated that a 'Board of Public Works was to officially take over the operations, duties and obligations of the Moth and Tree, Park and Cemetery, Water and Sewer, and Highway Departments, as well as all Town buildings under the supervision of the Selectmen, the care of the dumps, and the collection of garbage' by September 1, 1950. An Engineering Department was also created. The members of the first Board of Public Works, R. Francis Shea, R. Lee Lillie, and Richard J. Volpe met each week to familiarize themselves with the duties of each division and to hire a Director, Joseph H. DeFeo of Winthrop." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Highway department
  "Getting around Wakefield is a relatively easy task for approximately 25,000 vehicles in town. Passable roads and highways in harsh weather have become commonplace, often taken for granted. Wakefield residents at the turn of the century were not as lucky as the 24,149 residents today. The method of transportation in the early 1900s was the horse and buggy which was forced to travel on unplowed roadways in the winter and muddy roads during the spring thaw. If left unattended, the roads were deeply rutted, often causing carriage wheels to break and horses to stumble. The Wakefield Highway Department in the early 1900s used a coal-fired steam roller on watered-down roads to smooth the roads for easier travel. When the first automobile arrived in Wakefield the care of the roads became a top priority. Wakefield was fortunate to have paved roads by 1911. Today the Department of Public Works Highway Department is responsible for the 96 miles of roadway in Wakefield. A fleet of 32 trucks tend to the roads in all seasons, plowing, sanding and salting in the cold months and updating, paving and repairing during the warm months. During a typical Wakefield winter, 2000-3000 tons of sand and salt are used to tend the roadway." -- Text from calendar.;Caption: In this photograph taken in the mid-1930s, members of the Wakefield Water Department thaw a drain on the corner of Main Street and Richardson Avenue. The department is now a division within the Wakefield Department of Public Works.
• Hathaway's six-horse barge, 1885
  "Hathaway's Stable on Mechanic Street (now Princess Street) featured this six-horse barge, 'The Queen of the Turf.' The barges were rented from a livery stable and were used as a charter bus. The original Hathaway Stable was destroyed by fire on October 23, 1899. In 1900, the 'city stable,' owned by George H. Hathaway and managed by Otis M. Cutler boasted a 'new fire proof, steel clad stable acknowledged to be a model.'" -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hathaway Stable, Mechanic (Princess) Street, April, 1925
  "By 1925, the historic Hathaway Stable was in a 'dilapidated' state, contrary to the once thriving business operated by George H. Hathaway in the mid-1890s as a 'Livery, Sale and Boarding Stable' which also provided hacks and carriages to meet all trains, as well as transportation for parties, weddings and funerals. The carriages and horses were also used to move furniture. The stable was rebuilt after a devastating fire in October 1899. It fell into disrepair again when a portion of the roof collapsed under the weight of snow in February 1920 following a severe storm. Damage was set at $15,000 and the building was never fully repaired. The building was purchased by William Curley in November 1920. Firefighters eventually shored up the walls to make the building safe for the 'children who used the building as a playground' and for the Wakefield Fife and Drum Corp who leased a portion of the building for its rehearsals. Although the Selectmen requested that the building be removed in September 1923, it was still standing in 1925." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Hathaway Stable fire ruins, October 23, 1899
  "The Hathaway Stable fire on October 21, 1899, destroyed 13 buildings, including the horse stables, the wooden central fire station, two blacksmith shops and several houses. Thirty-nine horses perished in the fire. The stables were located on Mechanic Street (now Princess Street). The area now houses the fire and police stations, an office complex, and several businesses and homes." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Harvard Knitting Mills, Albion and Foundry Streets, looking from Murray Street, circa 1911
  "Winship, Boit & Co., proprietors of Harvard Knitting Mills, moved its ladies' jersey underwear manufacturing business from Cambridge to the third floor of the Wakefield Block (later the Taylor Building) on Main Street in 1889. Established in 1888 by Dudley Hosiery Mill and Allston Mill co-workers, Charles N. Winship and Elizabeth E. Boit , the business outgrew its 2,000 sq. ft. factory. In 1897, the company purchased 14,000 feet of land at the corner of Albion and Foundry Streets. The main building was occupied in January 1898 and had three floors and a basement, with two towers at each end. Business was brisk, with six additions built from 1901 to 1921. At one time, the company employed more than 850 people and had over 250,000 square feet of floor space. Winship, Boit & Co. itself was progressive. In 1917, the company instituted a maternity leave for its female employees, and in 1920, the company attracted national attention when it started a profit-sharing plan for employees. Both Mr. Winship and Miss Boit lived in Wakefield and were among the town's leading citizens - he served as a member of the school committee and as a founder of the town's chapter of the red Cross, while she was the founder of the Elizabeth E. Boit Home for Aged Women." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Hartshornes
  "During the 345 year history of Wakefield, the Hartshorne name has been one which has also been associated with community involvement. One of the first settlers, Thomas Hartshorne was a tailor by trade and was an active member of the community, serving as a Selectman in 1661 and 1667 during the early years of Reading. Col. James Hartshorne, a resident of the home now known as the Col. James Hartshorne House on Church Street, was another Hartshorne who was involved in the community. He was emplyed in the shoe manufacturing industry, but was most famous for his role as a Commander in the town militia. In 1797, Col. Hartshorne entered the calvery [i.e. cavalry] and distinguished himself as a leader among his fellow men. He purchased the Lafayette House (later known as the Hartshorne House) in 1803 where he resided until his death in 1870. He served as a Selectman in 1840 and 1841. Col. Hartshorne's son, Charles F. Hartshorne, continued his father's military heorics, serving in the Civil War and returning to serve his community as Town Clerk. He served as Town Clerk from 1872 to 1911, a record 39 years. Since the position of Town Clerk was an unpaid one, Charles was also involved in an insurance business which he conducted from the Town Clerk's Office. Following his death in 1911, the position of Town Clerk was held by his son Frederic S. Hartshorne until 1939. Frederic was already involved in his father's business, having joined the company in 1892. When he assumed the role as Town Clerk, he continued to conduct business from the office until he moved the growing insurance firm to Chestnut Street in 1939. He, too was involved in the community, serving as a member of the Board of Assessors and serving as Superintendent of the Sewer Department. The community involvement continued with Frederic's son, Frederic Manning Hartshorne, who was a Senior Engineer for the town. His son Joseph, who passed away in 1958, was also involved in the community, having served as a Call Fireman and as a member of the Municipal Light Dep;Caption: Frederic S. Hartshorne, left and Charles F. Hartshorne, right in 1904.
• Hartshorne House
  "The Col. James Hartshorne House was built around 1681 on Church Street, the only road from Reading Common (now Wakefield Common) and the Square. The one 'small house' named in the original deed probably contained the southwesterly corner rooms, downstairs and up. In 1681, the house was owned by Thomas Hodgman who may have built the house on land purchased by his wife Mary from William Hooper in 1664. In 1725, the house was sold to the widow Paterson, who left it to her son. He sold it in 1757 to Jonathan Cowdrey who may have enlarged the home to a 'saltbox' with two rooms in the front center section with a sloping roof over the kitchen in the back. A barn and another building, most likely a smith shop, were added to the property during this time. Dr. John Hart purchased the house in 1792 and again enlarged the house to inlude two large rooms near the Old Cemetery, and removed the east wall to make a lodge room for the Mount Moriah Lodge of Freemasons. He may have also raised the sloped roof to make a room over the kitchen. Under Dr. Hart's ownership, the house was rented and used as an inn named for General Lafayette. Two owners followed Dr. Hart, but they only owned the house for six months before selling it to James Hartshorne, Jr. in 1803. (The house was still known as the Lafayette House for many years to follow). Col. Hartshorne and his first wife, Abigail Coggin purchased the house in 1803 and the Colonel resided there until his death in 1870. Active in local affairs, he was a Wakefield Selectman and served as the Town Treasurer for 15 years. His second wife Mary continued to live in the home with her daughter Mary and her husband John Rayner who later sold the house to J. Reed Whipple of Boston and John G. Morrill of Wakefield who later joined with Frank H. Atwood in forming the Morrill-Atwood Ice Company. The property was purchased as a location from which ice from Lake Quannapowitt would be shipped to Boston customers over the Boston & Maine railroad tracks. The owners were primarily interested in the;Captions: 1. The hearth at the Col. James Hartshorne House. -- 2. The Col. James Hartshorne House in 1930 shortly after it was purchased by the Town of Wakefield. -- 3. Sometime during the 1930s these Wakefield women reenacted the early days of the Hartshorne House in full costume.
• Harts Hill forest fire watch tower, 1913
  "The state's Forestry Department erected a 40-foot forest fire watch tower on the summit of Harts Hill in the spring of 1913 to replace a similar tower on Bear Hill. The four-cornered steel framed tower was supported by four strong steel posts firmly cemented into the ledge at the summit of the hill. The lookout was another seven to eight feet higher, bringing the total height of the structure to nearly 50 feet, or 285 feet above sea level. The forest fire watch tower had glass windows on all four sides that provided an unobstructed view for several miles in all directions, 'as far as the western part of the state and the southern part of New Hampshire.' The first watchman was Henry Fay, the firefighter with the longest years of service. He was selected for the job, and paid, by the state Forestry Department. His equipment consisted of powerful glasses, a chart of the country 'round about,' a range finder and a telephone number (512-M). If he spotted a fire, he called the nearest fire department or fire warden. It was reported that he would be able to see a fire 10 to 15 miles away, and when he 'gained complete familiarity with his apparatus, could place it as close as 100 to 200 feet.' The Town voted in 1912 to pay $350 for public access to the tower. An iron stairway at the northwest corner was built so that ladies would not be 'inconvenienced.' On May 1913, over 400 people took advantage of the public opening." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hamilton School, February 25, 1902
  "The Hamilton School, built in 1884, was located at the southeasterly corner of Albion and Lake Street. On March 12, 1883, the Town of Wakefield voted at Town Meeting to appoint a committee to research the 'purchase of land and the erection of a school house.' Members of the committee included Lucius Beebe, chairman William N. Tyler, Secretary Thomas Winship Samuel K. Hamilton E.E. Emerson and A.W. Brownell. The Committee reported back to Town Meeting on May 7, 1883, with a recommendation to purchase a 14,566 foot parcel of land from Lucius Beebe at a cost of $1820.75, and to build a four room school house at an approximate cost of $8000. By May 14, 1883, the committee had met with five architects and 13 builders. It was recommended that the town utilze the services of architect R. Pote Wait, Esq., and builders David Perkins and Dennis Greaney. It was also reported that the cost of the project would be approximately $15,000. The Town Meeting also voted to name the school after Samuel K. Hamilton, Town Moderator and Chairman of the School Committee. The Hamilton School opened in April 1884, and housed 200 students from the overcrowded West Ward, Franklin and Center Schools. The students who attended lived in the 'vicinity and west of the Junction,' and 'west of the railroad and south of West Chestnut Street.' When school opened in the Fall with children from another added to the rolls, the Hamilton School was noted as having 'excellent accomodations for four schools and 200 scholars and is arranged and adapted to the needs of that neighborhood in an admirable manner, and is in itself, an ornament and credit to the Town.' The Hamilton School was closed in the 1930's due to declining enrollment." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Hamilton School, corner of Albion and Lake Streets, circa 1894
  "Described as an ornament and credit to the Town, the Hamilton School was first occupied by students in 1884. The school alleviated some of the overcrowding of schools, but the Town was still faced with a shortage of primary school space even after the Town's first brick school house was built. As a result, other schools were built in 1892 (Lincoln), 1895 (Warren), 1896 (Greenwood), 1899 (Hurd), 1902 (Franklin), 1918 (Montrose), 1920 (Woodville), and 1924 (St. Joseph's). Plans for the four-room Hamilton school house began in earnest in March, 1883, when Town Meeting voted to appoint a five-member committee to research the purchase of land for the erection of a school house. The committee's report to build a school house for an approximate cost of $15,000 was approved by Town Meeting in May, 1883, with reconsideration of the vote denied at the June Town Meeting. At the same time, Town Meeting voted to move ahead with plans to buy land owned by Lucius Beebe and to name the new school house the 'Hamilton School Building' in honor of Samual K. Hamilton, Esq., Chairman of the School Committee. In addition to the School Committee, Samuel Hamilton also served as a member of the Board of Selectmen, Chairman of the Board of Library Trustees, Town Moderator, Town Counsel, and President of the Wakefield Water Company. He was a member of the Town's General Committee for the 250th celebration, as well as the celebration's sub-committee for Invitations Historical, Literary and Musical Exercises and for the study of a joint celebration between the towns of Wakefield, Reading and North Reading. His political aspirations led him to run unsuccessfully for Middlesex County District Attorney in 1883. The Hamilton School only served the Town until 1933, when enrollment numbers declined. The building was torn down to make room for a parking lot for Transitron (now Harvard Mills)." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• H.M. Warren School and vicinity, circa 1910
  "Wakefield's residential sections include the West Side, near the Warren School and past the 'Park Gates' (at lower left of photo). In a tribute to Wakefield's businesses published in the 1890s the following is an excerpt of what was said about the residential community. 'As regards the advantages offered by Wakefield as a Home Town" it may be truthfully said that this community will make a most favorable showing as a result of the most thorough investigation that could possibly be made. Of Wakefield it has been said: 'She stands ready every day in the year to extend a cordial welcome and invitation to good men and women, of every name and race, to cast their lot within her borders, and help make her more and more a centre of intelligence, virtue and enterprise, a place of beauty, a city of homes.''And that is just what the Wakefield os the future will be, - a city of homes. Every year it is becoming more generally appreciated that a great mercantile and manufacturing city is not a fit place for a real home, and that the advantages of a town like Wakefield as a place of residence are so many and important that no family that is in a position to utilize them can afford to neglect to do so. So the future of Wakefield will be a veritable city of homes, and by both the number and character of her population will be entitled to a leading position among the prosperous and influential communities of the old Bay State.'" -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Gus' Home Bakery, 1915
  "Gus' Home Bakery and Wakefield Home Cooking Annex was located in the Walton Block on North Avenue in 1915. The appeal of clean, sanitary food came at the same time Wakefield children participated in a Hygienic Club." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Greenwood Union Church, July 31, 1921
  "The early beginnings of the Greenwood Union Church can be traced through historical records to the mid-1850's when the Sunday School was organized under the leadership of Henry Degan. The founders met in the unoccupied room of the Greenwood School house (also referred to as the old Hose House). After the First Congregational Society of Greenwood was organized in 1873, the members immediately began planning for a building of their own. When the school department needed their meeting room, they set out to find land, subsequently purchasing a lot of land from the Joseph Eaton estate on Oak Street. The foundation was laid in November, 1884, and the street floor of the building was in use by 1885. The upper floors were not completed until 1895, with a dedication held on February 27, 1895. The Greenwood Union Church was organized on November 19, 1903. In 1907, a one-story addition provided classrooms and a two-story addition provided a 'parlor' for the Ladies' Aid society. Extensive remodeling and another addition, which extended the building 22' closer to Oak Street, began in 1920. The front of the sanctuary became the side and the new front was back to the hill. The dedication was held on April 16, 1922. In 1944, a Parish House Fund was established which resulted in the purchase of the neighboring Willard Eaton property in 1952. In January, 1956, the church secured the corner lot at Oak and Main Street for further expansion, and the cornerstone of the new building was laid on September 25, 1960. The dedication took place in March, 1961." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Greenwood Union Church
  "The Greenwood Union Church has undergone many changes and additions since its first foundation was built in 1884. This church was actually established in 1873 as the 'First Congregational Society of Greenwood', an organization without a denomination. Several members of the 'village' had been meeting since 1856 in the upstairs of the Greenwood School building. The School Department needed the room and in 1883 the congregation purchased a lot near the Joseph Eaton estate on Oak Street. The foundation was laid in 1884 and the first floor was completed in 1885. The upper floor of the structure was completed in 1895 and the dedication took place shortly thereafter. In 1903 the church was formed with the financial affairs and the property being the responsibility of the First Congregational Society while the Greenwood Union Church was responsible for religious services. The church was established after a survey was taken among the congregation as to the demonination preferred. A one-story addition was built in 1907 after the church membership had expanded and an extensive remodeling and expansion was undertaken in 1920. At that time, the building was expanded closer to Oak Street. In 1935, the congregation voted to unite the First Congregational Society and the church into one organization - known today as the Greenwood Union Church. Further expansion was necessary, and in 1946 the congregation voted to purchase additional land on the East side of the church. In 1952 the church purchased the adjacent Willard Eaton property and built the Parish House in 1953. The church further expanded in 1956 after the purchase of the corner lot and the dedication of the new addition was held in 1961." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. The First Congregational Society of Greenwood, which later became the Greenwood Union Church, in 1899. -- 2. The Greenwood Union Church, prominently located in the Greenwood section.
• Greenwood Station
  "Greenwood Station was one of six stations in the Town at the height of railroad usage. Built after the first train came through the Town in the mid 1840s, the Greenwood Station was located near the rear of Greenwood's first business block and in front of Mr. Locke's Greenwood Grove, a popular attraction for Boston residents who summered in the area. After the Greenwood Station was abandoned by the Boston and Maine Railroad, the Atlantic Refining Company announced plans to build a modern two-bay filling station in October 1958. Those plans were short-lived as the Selectmen granted permission to Cabot, Cabot and Forbes to move the 24-foot wide, 52-foot long, and 30-foot high building in early 1959. The Greenwood Station was moved to Pleasure Island where it was restored and painted and 'perched proudly' on a hill overlooking Goldpan Gulch. The station was destroyed by a spectacular fire that also destroyed Pleasure Island's Diamond Lil Saloon on April 1, 1971." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Greenwood School, grammar school baseball champions, circa early 1930s
  "Teams of seventh grade boys, representing one team from each of the six Wakefield public grammar schools (Lincoln, Hurd, Franklin, Woodville, Warren and Greenwood), competed in the annual grammar school baseball tournament during May and June, 1930. Arranged by Wakefield High School coach Homer Shellenberger and sponsored by the Wakefield Lodge of Elks, the scheduled games were played on the Common, Harts Hill, High School (Walton Field), and Franklin School fields. The teams played two games each week for six weeks with a championship game played at the end of June. The championship game featured a close match between Franklin and Greenwood, eventually leading to a 5 to 4 win by Greenwood. Several 'clever' and 'pretty' plays were executed by both teams, keeping the outcome of the game uncertain until the last player was retired." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Greenwood School, 1910
  "In his report to the Town for the year ending January 31, 1896, School Superintendent Charles E. Hussey noted that Greenwood students above the sixth grade had to 'come to the center of town to go on with their proper classes. For children to be away from home from 8 o'clock a.m. to 5 p.m., every school day to travel two miles, to eat a cold lunch in a school-room, constitutes, I believe, a genuine grievance, and the objections to such a necessity are substantial.' At the March 24, 1896 Town Meeting, committee members A.H. Thayer, William F. Young, H.W. Walton, William H. Lee, C.E. Hussey, William G. Strong, and Daniel Evans submitted a report recommending that a four-room brick and slate school house be built by H.J. Preston at a cost of $16,500. The report was accepted and the new Greenwood schoolhouse was occupied that autumn under the direction of its Principal, Miss S.E. Wilkins, a teacher for grades seven and eight. The two-story building contained four rooms and was built on a Main Street Town-owned lot. The building was situated to allow expansion to the east 'when necessary.' All the rooms had southern exposure with the stairs and corridors to the north. The teachers' room was on the first floor, with the classrooms on the second floor. The basement contained the 'sanitary arrangements of the dry cremating system.' The plans originally called for a unique design for the chimney which incorporated a clock tower which was to be provided by the citizens of Greenwood. In 1910, the year when bubbling drinking fountains were added to all school buildings, the Town report indicated that registration at the Greenwood School was larger than usual, with the eighth and ninth grades confined to one room 'by necessity, owing to the larger regsitration in the other grades.' According to the report, there were '54 students in one room where there should be 42.'" -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Greenwood Block, 1931
  "Greenwood was originally a part of Charlestown and 'Maldon' during the 1600s. Since it was mandatory for all men to attend church and participate in military drills, the men petitioned the Legislature to allow the village to become a part of Redding somewhere around 1727 because it was difficult to pass through the narrow Indian trails to the 'sea' during the winter months and spring thaw. Greenwood remained a remote area and farming village until 1844 when the Boston to Wilmington railroad began passing through the town. By 1883, the population increased and a new church, the Greenwood Union Church, was built. A commercial building was also built across the street to accommodate the needs of the new residents and businesses. Near the rear of the building, behind the Greenwood Station, was Mr. Locke's Greenwood Grove that was a popular attraction for Boston residents who summered in the area, with its picnic grove, a dance hall, cook house, monkey cage, band stand, and an observatory. This business block at the corner of Main and Greenwood Streets housed several businesses, including the Economy Grocery Store. The white Wonder Bread delivery truck is pictured at the right, as is a personal automobile and a horse and delivery wagon." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Green House, Main Street, circa 1800s
  "Thought to be built somewhere around the 1750s, the Green house on Main Street was owned by Isaac Green in 1846. According to the Town of Wakefield finance records of 1846, Isaac Green was paid $38.33 for land to be used by the South Schoolhouse. According to 1876 Polls and Estate Tax records, Isaac owned two dwelling houses, a barn, shed, three to four acres of land, and another parcel of land measuring ten acres, all on Main Street. By 1890, the records indicate that Isaac E. Green owned one-acre with buildings, six acres of woodland, and one dwelling house. Some verbal history records, taken in the 1930s, indicate that some people believed that Greenwood might have been named after the Green family, an important family in the village. These records also indicate that William, David, Samuel, Howard and Thomas Green were important in the village and William Green was among the men who petitioned the General Court in the 1720s to let 10 families become residents of Redding rather than Maldon [sic] (a separate village of Charlestown.) These records also report that Greenwood may have been named by a train conductor for its 'large and beautiful woods.'"-- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Grand Army Hall, Foster Street, 1905
  "Members of the Horace M. Warren Post No. 12 of the G.A.R., 'ex-soldiers of the War of 1861-1865' often met at the group's 'corner' of the hall on Foster Street. The building, once part of the old South Reading Academy, was dedicated on December 29, 1892. The H.M. Warren Post was chartered on August 16, 1867, and was named in memory of Horace M. Warren, a member of the Richardson Light Guard's Company B, 5th Regiment at Bull Run and the 20th Regiment at Ball's Bluff where he was severly wounded. He went on to serve as 1st Lieutenant in Company E, 50th Regiment (Richardson Light Guard) in the Port Hudson, LA campaign, and 'in the Wilderness under Grant, and at Cold Harbor, Petersburg, VA.' He was later named Adjutant and Major in the 59th Regiment, Veteran's Infantry. He was mortally wounded on the Weldon Railroad Battlefield in August, 1864. The first meeting of the Post was presided over by William Tyler, Provisional District Commander of Section No 6. and formal organizer of the post. The officers were installed by Grand Commander Austin S. Cushman of the Department of Massachusetts at South Reading." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Gould/Walton Block, Main and Centre Streets, circa late 1930's
  "The Gould Block, also referred to as the Walton Block, was one of the many downtown buildings razed during the 1930's to make way for the 'modern' structures which exist today. Formerly owned by Arthur Gould Walton, the block was one of several properties owned by Walton, the man for whom Walton field is named. Following his death in 1937, Walton's heirs sold or auctioned all his properties. When sold in 1938, the block housed McCarthy's Market, John Jeffrey & Sons package store, Western Union Telegraph Company agent L.L. McMaster, and Lucas Jewelry. The Quannapowitt Club which occupied the second floor of the building for 45 years was also displaced by the sale and eventually took up residence in the Hodgdon Building in quarters formerly occupied by Wahpatuck Tribe of Red Men on Main Street, near Water Street. The Gould Block was razed in late December, 1938 to make way for a two story, 58' x 112' building with 'terra cotta front on Main Street and 40' on Centre Street with modern brick sides extending along the remainder of the Centre Street side.' According to published reports, the building was thought to be 'the most modern in this vicinity, with a rounded glass corner at Centre and main Streets, insulation, and all-concealed radiation.' The first floor of the northern half of the building on Main Street was occupied by the Economy Stores, a self-service super market. The Metropolitan Life Insurance Company occupied most of the top floor, with the exception of two professional offices on the northern side." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Giuliano's Barber Shop, circa 1929
  "Barbers Jim Giuliano, Concetto Giuliano and Carl Swim offered free haircuts to local boys and girls at the Water Street barber shop during the Depression. The shop was located at the corner of Wakefield Avenue and Water Street and was adjacent to the Giuliano's family-owned restaurant, Connie's Restaurant. Among the families who are represented in the photo along with Mary and Antoinette Giuliano are the DeFelice, Casey, Croce, Longo families, among others who still remain in Wakefield." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Girls softball, 1983
  "During the spring of 1953, several enthusiastic girls tried their hand at softball, forming teams of nine with 'catchy' names. Coached by Miss Katherine Nichols, the girls played tournament style games. The sport caught on quickly at WHS, with 120 girls participating in the weekly games in 1954. After a lapse of several years, WHS started a girls softball team in 1964-1965. By 1966-1967, the team was redeveloped and interscholastic play began. During the early 1980s, under the guidance of Coach Brenda DeNinno, the WHS girls' softball team was a powerhouse, capturing three consecutive Middlesex League titles. The team won the Division I North championship in both 1982 and 1983. In 1983, Coach DeNinno reached her 100th win on May 6th and pitcher Renee Najarian broke the Middlesex League win record with 53 wins with an ERA of .86. It was also the year that the team, the #1 seeded team in Division I North, captured the Eastern Mass Division I state championship over opponent Oliver Ames High School." -- Text from calendar.
• Girls soccer, 1980
  "The first mention of girls' soccer at Wakefield High School was in the 1955 yearbook which noted that the girls played intramural games from September to November. The first girls soccer team was formed in 1979 after increasing interest in the sport, with Mr. Mogavero as their supervisor. Coaching duties were taken over by Noel Higgins in 1980. By the 1982 season, the team had posted a 9-3-1 record, the second best in the Middlesex League, and had qualified for the state tournament." -- Text from calendar.
• Girls basketball team, 1928
  "Coached by A. Cheney, with M. Bunker as the faculty manager, the Girls' Basketball Team membership roster included (left to right) A. Sanders, E. White, M. Potter, L. Buckle, Captain M. Humphrey, C. Woodman, E. Wall, and L. Allen. According to historical records, girls were becoming more involved in sporting activities during the 1920's than ever before. Shortly after the 1928 season, girls' basketball became an interclass sport, rather than a varsity sport." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Girls basketball
  "In 1919, a new sport was introduced at Wakefield High School which enabled girls to 'indulge in the history of competitive athletics.' Through the efforts of the Athletic Association, arrangements were made with the YMCA so that the girls 'might use the gymnasium on Thursday from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. for basketball practice.' Forty girls took advantage of this opportunity under the direction of Miss Hester Sharkey. Two teams were organized from each of the three upperclasses, and interclass games were played. No games were played out of town. By the 1950s, annual games with Woburn, Stoneham, Wilmington, and Our Lady of Nazareth Academy were added to the schedule. The number of players increased over the years, with 70 girls participating in 1952, and 130 in 1954. The 1960-1961 school year marked the beginning of interscholastic competition for the WHS girls basketball team. Early schedules included varsity competition against North Andover, Malden, Marblehead, Beverly, North Reading, Saugus, Melrose, and Stoneham. The WHS girls' basketball team has had its share of success over the years, especially during the late 1970s, and throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The team captured the Middlesex League championship several times between 1979 and 1988, and was crowned Division II state champions in both 1988 and again in 1997. Both championship games were played against Monument Mountain." -- Text from calendar.
• Gasoline rationing in Wakefield, July 21, 1942
  "Motorists converged on Fred's Service Station at the corner of Main and West Water Streets one day before a gasoline rationing plan went into effect. As part of the War Price and Rationing Board's rationing plan, motorists were required to register for rationing coupon books on July 9, 10 and 11 at two locations: the Greenwood School and the Wakefield High School gymnasium. Registrations were conducted by school teachers. As part of the plan, every registrant received an 'A' book of coupons consisting of 48 coupons (each good for four gallons) on six pages. Each page was to last two months. This would allow an average of four gallons a week, or 16 gallons per month, based on 240 miles of driving each month. Additional rationing coupons were available for business needs, although these were only given out after 'considerable study and exacting data' was presented. Neighbors were required to participate in a 'share-the-car' program, a prerequisite for eligibility for extra rations. Only those people with irregular or unusual hours of work, no fixed place of work, or those who could not find passengers were exempt. The applicant had to list the number of people to be carried in connection with their work, the mileage for the previous 30 days, and the average monthly mileage for the first three months of the rationing period. Additional rationing books included 'B' - an extra 64 gallons in 12 weeks; 'C' - an extra 384 gallons for 3 months; 'S-1' for commercial vehicles and small trucks - an extra 480 gallons for four months; 'S-2' for large trucks - an extra 1920 for four months; and 'D' for motorcycles - with a unit value of 1.5 gallons. The gasoline rationing regulations gave local boards the power to rule a motorist off the road by refusing to give the necessary coupons to purchase the gasoline. Anyone who submitted false information on applications for supplementary gasoline rationing cards were subjected to a $10,000 fine or one year's imprisonment. Neighbors and co-workers were also encouraged to report to the local rationing board anyone they suspected to be in violation of the regulations." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Gas division
  "The Wakefield Municipal Light Department not only provides electricity to its customers, but also supplies natural gas to the community. The town of Wakefield purchased the community's electric and gas systems from the Citizens' Gas & Light Company of Reading, South Reading and Stoneham by a vote of its citizens in 1894. After supplying the gas until the mid-1920s, the Wakefield Municipal Light Department began buying its gas from the Malden Gas Copmany in 1924 and later continued purchasing its gas from the company's successor, the Mystic Valley Gas Company. In 1969, gas service to the Montrose section of the town was supplied by a connection obtained from the Lynn Gas Company. Shortly after obtaining this connection, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ordered the New England Electric System to sell its gas systems, two of which were the Lynn Gas Company and Mystic Valley Gas Company. The companies were purchased by Boston Gas Company, the present supplier to the Wakefield MLD. Today the MLD provides gas service to 5000 homes in Wakefield." -- Text from calendar.;Caption: The old Municipal Light Barn, on North Avenue, in 1893, just prior to the town's purchase of the Citizens' Gas & Light Company. Standing in front of the building is Superintendent Wallace.
• G.W. Eaton, grocer delivery wagon, circa 1900
  "George W. Eaton, a lifelong resident of Wakefield and one of its best-known citizens at the time, was the proprietor of G.W. Eaton, Grocers. The store was located at 394 Main Street from 1889 to 1917. Born in Greenwood, George Eaton was a valued member of the local Grand Army Associate Members Association. He was an active member of the Baptist Church, at one time serving as the superintendent of its Sunday School. When Eaton retired in 1917 after 28 years in the grocery business, he disposed of his goods and closed the store, not selling the business to another individual. At the time of Eaton's death in 1925, the storefront on Main Street was home to Walton's Undertaking Rooms." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Franklin School, circa 1922
  "The Franklin School, as it stands, was built in 1902 on Nahant Street. Plans for a new Junction school house began in 1900 when an article was introduced at the May 21st Town Meeting. A committee of five townspeople (School Committee member G.H.S. Driver, Thomas E. Dwyer, Augustus D. Jenkins, Thomas Hickey, and F.O. Clark) was selected to review whether an eight-room school house should be built. They were to make their report without exceeding $100 to procure the plans. In November, 1900, the committee reported back that 'it was inexpedient to make any additions to the present building (then on Franklin Street) as plumbing and heating of the old and new building would not only be expensive, but would make the building unsatisfactory.' The May, 1901, Town Meeting voted to purchase, or take by eminent domain, land on the northwest corner of Nahant and Traverse Streets for that purpose, and to erect an eight-room brick school house, according to the plans drawn by Harland A. Perkins. Some disagreed with the location, based on the costs of removing ledge on the Traverse Street side ($2 per square yard to cut away) and the filling of the bog in the rear (48 cents a square yard to fill). The land was taken in 1901, with construction starting immediately at a cost of $30,000. A sum of $1,000 was appropriated by Town Meeting to furnish the school, which later bought only 42 desks and chairs for five rooms, for a total of 210 seats. When school opened on September 8, 1902, approximately 240 students were on hand. A sixth classroom was quickly assembled with furnishings from other schools and districts. The building was enlarged in 1926 which doubled its room capacity." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Football, 1937
  "In late September 1919, 26 prospective players showed up for football practice, the first time since 1905 that Wakefield High School fielded a team. In the course of a week, an epidemic broke out, canceling three games and practices. When the season resumed, 15 players returned to play 7 games. They won 3 and lost 4 games. The 1937 football team, coached by William D. Healey and captained by John Guttadauro had a 'most successful' season with its 7-2 record. It was noted in the yearbook that attendance during the season was 'remarkable, and those who did attend deserve to share in the team's success.' The team played against Amesbury, Swampscott, Woburn, Watertown, Melrose, Reading and Cambridge Latin. In 1956, Wakefield became part of the new Middlessex Football League with Stoneham, Reading, Concord, Winchester, Lexington, Melrose and Belmont. This meant that the teams had new rules and regulations, including prohibiting spring training for teams and allowing coaches, headmasters and athletic directors to decide whether a game would be played because of inclement weather. Since the new league had previously played against other Class B teams, this meant a change in Thanksgiving Day game rivalry from long-time foe Gloucester to Melrose, which occurred in the late 1950s. Wakefield went on to become league champions in 1956, 1957 and 1958. The WHS football team has been successful over the years. In 1962, the team, with an 8-0-1 record, shared the Middlesex League championship and was invited to the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy. The team, undefeated in 1970, won the Middlesex League and team members received a trip to Bermuda thanks to funds raised door-to-door. In 1999, the WHS football team won the Division 2 Superbowl." -- Text from calendar.
• Flying Yankee, Boston to Maine
  "Many children of the 1930's and 1940's were in awe of the 'Flying Yankee', with its green and gold locomotive, nickel-plated cylinder heads and brass name plate at its front. The nonstop express raced through Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine on its daily run in both directions between Boston and Portland. Averaging 51 miles-per-hour throughout its entire trip of 114.6 miles, the Flying Yankee began its test runs in April, 1929, roaring through Wakefield on its way to Boston at 8:14 p.m. and making its northbound appearance at 9:45 a.m. The entire trip, between Boston and Portland, took two hours and 15 minutes. The upper part of its great boiler jacket, 'surmounted by the steel dome and sand dome, steel turrets, and the locomotive bell' was painted green to match the grass on New England hills. Below that, the running gear was a darker green, matching the color of New England pines. Both were striped with gold. A stripe of gold matched the running board and ran the entire length of the engine, and the tender, painted the darker green, bore the name of the Boston & Maine railroad insignia in gold. Below the cab, also in gold was the 'Flying Yankee'." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• First settlers' homesteads
  "The map of Reading shows the first grants of land to the settlers in 1647, the first general division of land which was recorded. All homesteads are located in the present town of Wakefield. 1. Francis Smith (western side of Main Street near Wakefield Junction) -- 2. John Smith (eastern side of Main Street at the southeast corner of Nahant Street) -- 3. Henry Felch (on the western side of Main Street near the present Crystal Lake) -- 4. George Davis (on the western side of Main Street near the Junior High School) -- 5. Rev. Henry Green, the first Minister (northeastern corner of Main and Water Streets where the former Town Hall stood) -- 6. Samuel Dunton (near the Northeast corner of Water and Crescent Street) -- 7. John Poole (near the intersection of Vernon and Water Streets) -- 8. Thomas Parker (eastern side of Crescent Street facing Princess Street) -- 9. The first Meeting House (western side of Main Street, south of Albion Street) -- 10. Jeremy Fitch (eastern side of Main Street between Salem and Pearl Streets. The homestead was set back near Pleasant Street) -- 11. Josiah Dustin (eastern side of Main Street near Lawrence Street) -- 12. William Martin (eastern side of Main Street) -- 13. Edward Hutchinson (eastern side of Main Street) -- 14. William Eaton (eastern side of Main Street above Aborn Avenue) -- 15. Jonas Eaton (eastern side of Main Street adjacent to William Eaton) -- 16. John Bachellor (eastern side of Main Street near Cordis Street) -- 17. Nicholas Browne (eastern side of Main Street) -- 18. Edward Taylor (eastern side of Main Street near the present Beebe homestead) -- 19. Robert Burnap, Sr. (east of Vernon Street and south of Lowell Street) -- 20. Jeremiah Sweyne (south or near the junction of Lowell and Salem Streets) -- 21. Nicholas Brown (western side of Lowell Street, north of Montrose Avenue) -- 22. Isaac Hart (southeast corner of Church and Common Streets) -- 23. William Hooper (southern end of Church Street at the present site of the Hartshorne House) -- 24. Thomas Kendall (southern side of Prospect Street on the corner of Cedar Street) -- 25. Richard Walker (northern side of Elm Street, west of Winn Street) -- 26. Abraham Briant (southern side of Elm Street and east of Parker Road - this was the old road to Woburn) -- 27. Thomas Hartshorne (western side of Elm Street near Western Avenue) -- 28. William Cowdrey (northern side of Prospect Street and east of Parker Road) -- 29. William Hooper (northern side of Prospect Street) -- 30. Thomas Clark (southern side of Prospect Street near Park Avenue) -- 31. Thomas Taylor (southern side of Prosect Street close to Summitt Avenue) -- 32. Sgt. Thomas Marshall (southern side of Prospect Street) -- The early homesteads of Henry Feltch, Jr., John Pearson and Samuel Walker have not been determined." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• First settlers
  "The town of Wakefield was first incorporated in 1644, but her first settlers began to arrive from Lynn in 1639. During this time, the settlers began to cross the rough terrain and settle in the area which is now Wakefield after having petitioned the Colony Court to do so. In 1644 after a sufficient number of homes were established, the Court ordered that 'Lynn Village' take the name of 'Redding', presumably after Reading, England from where several of the first settlers emigrated. The town, when incorporated, contained the area of what is now Wakefield and Reading. The area which is now North Reading was added by a land grant in 1651. According to town records the first settlers included 29 men and their families: Nicholas Brown (who settled on the east side of the 'Great Pond' where the Beebe estate now stands), Thomas Clark, John Damon (who settled where the Common now stands), William Cowdrey, George Davis, Robert Dunton, Samuel Dunton, Josiah Dustin, Jonas Eaton, William Eaton, Zackery Fitch, Isaac Hart, Thomas Hartshorn, William Hooper, Thomas Kendall, John Laukin, Thomas Marshall, William Martin, John Pearson, John Poole (who settled where the rattan factory once stood), Thomas Parker, Francis Smith, John Smith, Jeremy Swayne, Thomas Taylor, Edward Taylor, Richard Walker, and John Wiley. The majority of the men were middle-aged when they settled in the town. William Cowdrey (1602-1687), a lawyer and the best educated of the settlers was undoubtedly the most politically and socially active of the first settlers. He had a major role in shaping the early policies, rules and regulations, having served as Clerk of Writs, Deacon of the Church, Alcoholic Commissioners, Town Clerk, Selectman, Representative to the General Court and Justice of the Peace. He served as Town Clerk from 1644 to 1687 and although he was feeble during the last six years of his life, the townspeople refused to fill his position. They chose instead to appoint his son Nathaniel as Town Clerk 'pro tempore' until his father's death. They subsequently named Nathaniel to the position which he held for one year. John Poole was the wealthiest of the settlers, running both the corn and the saw mills in the town. The town granted him land on what is now Water Street for the corn mill in 1644 at the site which was later the rattan factory. He built the saw mill on Vernon Street at the Lynnfield-Wakefield line in 1650. Although prominent in the town, he never held public office and was never a member of the Church. Captain Richard Walker was the Captain of the first training band to help protect the settlers against the Indians. He was officially assigned the task in 1645 after the Court ordered that a military guard should be kept in every town against a surprise attack by the Indians, yet he was training the men in 1644 on his own. Every youth between the ages of 10 to 16 was ordered to 'be trained by an officer of each company on muster days in the use of small guns, half pikes and bows and arrows, lest the Colony should be destitute of powder.' It is written that Captain Walker was honored for his bravery during the Indian Wars. After 25 years he noved on to Nova Scotia where he developed a fur trade and was named Deputy Governor of the Province. Deacon Zachery Fitch (for which Fitch Court was named) was one of the first settlers to build a home in the town on what is now Salem Street at Fitch Court. He was also one of the oldest of the men, settling in Reading at the age of 51. He served as Selectman in 1649, 1651 and 1661." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• First Parish Congregational Church, looking east on Church Street, 1909
  "The fourth meeting house of the First Parish Congregational Church fell victim to a fire on the morning of February 21, 1909, in what was described by the Wakefield Item as 'one of the hottest and most spectacular conflagrations in the history of the town.' As the photograph shows, 'thick, black smoke poured forth in volumes throwing a heavy pall over the whole easterly side of the town from the square to Lakeside.' The fire was driven by high winds which shifted from north to west '...sparks flew in showers on the dwellings on Common Street and on the streets on the easterly side of the Park and the Common - Crescent, Bryant, Park and Salem.' It was also reported that roofs were wet down, but in spite of the precautions, several caught fire, among them the residences of Chester W. Eaton (at the corner of Main and Park Streets) and Chas. A. Cheney, as well as the Emmanuel Episcopal Church. At noontime, four hours after the fire was first spotted, all that remained was a corner wall and tower. The church was rebuilt and rededicated on February 1, 1912." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• First Parish Congregational Church, February 1909
  "Passersby stop to look at the damage caused by a fire to the First Parish Congregational Church on February 21, 1909. The fire partially destroyed the stone building and 'brought genuine grief to the townspeople, as well as to the men and women of the First Parish.' Sunday worship services were held in the Town Hall (on Main Street at the corner of Water Street) as well as at other churches in the community during the three years the First Parish was without a home of its own. Rebuilding began soon after the fire, and the new church, much like the old, was dedicated on February 1, 1912." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• First Parish Congregational Church
  "One of the constants in the history of Wakefield, from the time of its inception in 1644 until the present day, has been the First Parish Congregational Church. Currently located on the corner of Church Street and Lake Avenue, the church is actually the fifth structure to have been built by parishioners over its 300 year history. The first church was established by the residents of the town near the corner of Main and Albion Streets. The small structure sufficed until 1688 when the parishioners built a new church near their present location. This second structure existed until 1768. The third building was erected in 1768 and faced West, but was turned to face South many years later. The tall spire on this church became the victim of the great gale of 1815 and was replaced by a dome-shaped steeple. This, too, was replaced by another spire when the building was turned. The edifice was in existence until 1890 and replaced by the gray granite structure in 1892. The church was partially destroyed by fire on February 21, 1909. Parishioners worshipped at various locations, including the Town Hall, for the next three years until the fifth and current structure was completed in 1912. The church has been heralded throughout the years for its Byzantine-Romanesque architecture and the beauty of the interior." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. The First Parish Congregational Church in 1768 as depicted in this painting by Franklin Poole. The building was built to face West but was later moved South in 1859. -- 2. The church in 1930. -- 3. Today the church is still recognized for its architectural beauty.
• First Baptist Church, circa 1918
  "Organized in 1794 as the South Reading Branch of the Baptist Church of Woburn, and in 1798 as the Baptist Society in the First Parish, the First Baptist Church built its first meeting house on Salem Street in 1800. In 1820, the Meeting House was moved to a new location at the corner of Main and Crescent Streets. Fire destroyed the building in 1835, and a new, larger church was erected on the same site in 1837. The building was enlarged in 1853. On June 21, 1871, fire destroyed the second building, hastening the congregation's plans for a larger building. Ground was broken at the present site of the church on June 27, 1871 with the cornerstone laid on August 22nd. The building was completed and dedicated in December, 1872." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Fire station, circa 1907
  "Wakefield's brick Central Fire Station at the corner of Crescent and Mechanic (now Princess) Streets was built in 1900 after the Hathaway Stable fire destroyed the department's two-story wooden firehouse in October 1899. The department moved into its new brick joist station on December 22, 1900. Roger Howard built the new brick fire station at a cost of $17,197.58. When new, the station had a large main room on the ground floor for the three pieces of fire apparatus, three sleeping rooms, a stable with seven stalls and two chutes for the hay and grain, a hay loft, harness rooms, tool closets, washrooms, meeting rooms, and a business office which looked over Crescent Street. The hose tower was built to dry over 2500 feet of hose after they were sprayed and washed. As the department continued to grow, the number of pieces of apparatus increased as did the needs of the department. An addition was built in 1975 to accommodate the changing needs of the department. In 2001, Town Meeting voted to build a new public safety building to house both the Fire and Police Departments. Construction began in June 2002 and the fire station was razed, with the exception of the hose tower, which remained intact. The official dedication and open house of the new public safety building was held in February 2004." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Fire Department and the volunteers
  "Shortly after the incorporation of the town, the town of Reading recorded their first 'bucket brigades' in the 1660s. The first engine was put into service in the early 1800s and was known as the 'Republican Extinguisher'. It was housed in a small building located on the ancient burial ground near the common. This equipment was manned by volunteers for over 25 years until the 'Black Hawk,' a tub was put into commission for the next 26 years until 1852. In 1854, the first official fire department in the town was established through an act of the legislature. Volunteers continued to man the equipment since the permanent firefighter was not hired until 1989. In 1882, a volunteer organization, known as the Home Fire Protection Association, was formed by Rufus Kendrick. A staunch supporter of small fire apparatus, Mr. Kendrick believed in using buckets, cans, garden hoses attached to houses and particularly Johnson hand force pumps. Because of his involvement, the town at one point had 450 Johnson hand force pumps, 300 of which were owned by private individuals, and 150 by the town. Born on March 27, 1822 and raised on a farm in Amherst, NH, Rufus Kendrick first became interested in in fighting fires with small apparatus as a young boy. He often saw fires extinguished with the use of wet mops and buckets of water, saving farm houses from devastation. His interest never faltered and after moving to Cambridgeport he continued to go to fires with his own pumps and at one time he had the pump turned on him by a firefighter. He was a resident of Reading for a short time and later moved to Wakefield where he lived in the Greenwood section. During his residence in Wakefield, he spent several hundred dollars of his own money to promote volunteer fire fighting with the Johnson pump. He was looked upon with scorn by some, but was nevertheless responsible for saving thousands of dollars for the town. Membership in the Home Fire Protection Association required that each member sign an agreement to use the pump at;Captions: 1. William E. Cade, Chief Engineer of the Wakefield Fire Department and a member of the Fountain Engine Company. -- 2. Volunteer Hose Members: Zwicker, Russell, White, Cicle, Kent, Pope. -- 3. Fountain Number 3 crew at the headquarters on Crescent Street. -- 4. Brick fire station on Church Street built in 1860. This picture was taken after 1884.
• Fire department
  "The first recorded firefighting efforts in Wakefield occurred in the 1660s with the 'bucket brigade' method of fighting fires. Residents were required to have leather buckets to carry water from brooks, ponds, or wells, form a line and pass the buckets to the fire. This method sufficed until the first fire apparatus - a four wheel, hand-drawn, hand-pumped tub - was obtained, but the buckets were still required to fight the fires. The first official fire department in Wakefield was established by the state legislature in 1854. In 1868 when the town became known as Wakefield, the department's equipment grew to 3 hand-drawn apparatus. The Montrose Fire Company was established in 1871, followed by the Greenwood Company in 1886. Before the first fire hydrants were installed in 1883, water was obtained from reservoirs strategically located throughout the town. The next major step in fire fighting history occurred when the alarm system was installed in 1887. Wakefield's first permanent firefighter was hired in 1898 to care for the department's first horse. With the turn of the century, the department shed its hand-drawn apparatus for the new horse-drawn apparatus, including steam operated pumpers. Right on the heels of the horse-drawn apparatus came the motorized equipment. The first such apparataus was put into service in 1908 and by 1914, motorized fire apparatus had replaced the horse-drawn era of firefighting. Throughout the 1900s the Wakefield Fire Department has kept pace with the industry by employing the latest technology. Today, the Wakefield Fire Department has a full-time force of 52 officers and fire fighters. The equipment today includes five pumpers and an aerial truck which operate out of the town's two fire stations. Last year, the department responded to over 2000 calls, including all types of fire incidents, medical emergencies and public assistance calls." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. The first motorized piece of fire apparatus in Wakefield, a 1908 Columbia hose car. -- 2. The Wakefield Fire Department, men and equipment, April 29, 1927. -- 3. One of Wakefield's first firefighting apparatus, a 1853 hand tub housed in a fire station on the Common.
• Field hockey, 1980
  "Field hockey at Wakefield High School began in 1926 as an interclass sport, due in part to a short season and weather conditions. In 1930, the Junior Class team was captained by Catherine Nichols. Miss Nichols became the coach during the 1937-38 season, her first year as a 'gymnasium' teacher. Miss Nichols was instrumental in bringing sports to the girls at Wakefield High School, introducing them to intramural basketball, field hockey, badminton, tennis, bowling, archery, and golf. She was inducted into the first Hall of Fame class at Wakefield High School in 1991. Intramural games continued into the 1950s before interest in the game began to wane. In 1961, WHS gym classes were 're-introduced' to field hockey, the same year that WHS began its first interscholastic season under the coaching of Mrs. Clayman. The WHS field hockey team, with a record of 9-1-3, won the Middlesex League in 1977, and again in 1980, with a record of 18-2 under Coach Brenda DeNinno. That year, the team led the league in the number of goals scored (59), least goals scored against (8), andmost shutouts (13)." -- Text from calendar.
• F.P. Hurd School, circa 1900
  "Town Meeting voted in early 1898 to build a new brick schoolhouse in Wakefield's North Ward to help ease crowded conditions in the elementary schools. The North Ward included the territory between Main and Salem Street, west of the Newburyport Branch of the B&M Railroad. It was the third school to open in as many years, the others being the Warren School and the Greenwood School, both opened in 1897. Other elementary schools included the West Ward School (1847), Hamilton School (1883), and the Lincoln School (1892). After a report was presented by a committee, the meeting voted to build the new school on a 13,000 foot lot at the intersection of Cordis Street and a private way which ran north of Cordis and became a continuation of Pleasant Street. The location was 'favorably situated as to light, air, and drainage.' Arguments were made that the existing school building could be repaired at a cost of $1,000 and would be used for the next 25 years. It was also noted that many of the ward's 96 scholars were attending classes at the Lincoln School due to the cramped conditions at the North Ward School. Rather than vote for a two-room, one-story school, the meeting voted to build a four-room, two-story building, the second floor being unfinished. The building would be of dark red waterstruck brick with trimming of buff sandstone. The roof was covered with slate, with gutters, conductors, and ridges made of copper, and steps and basement windows made of granite. The inside finish was of North Carolina hard pine, with floors of Georgia hard pine. The first and second floors were to be the same, with a vestibule, corridor, coat rooms and a lavatory, teachers room, and two classrooms, each measuring 28 feet x 32 feet. The cost to build the school was $12,000. Debate continued over several meetings to name the school the Francis P. Hurd School in memory of Dr. Hurd, a 'cultivated, refined, and philanthropic citizen.' Upon his death he had bequeathed $2,500 to the Beebe Library. A subsequent meeting voted to spend an additional $25 to cut the name in a proper place on the building." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Engine 2, Greenwood Fire Station, July 3, 1954
  "On April 1, 1902, the Town of Wakefield voted to sell the Greenwood Fire Station on Oak Street and convert the adjacent vacant Greenwood School building into a fire station. The school, originally built in 1847 on the east side of Main Street just south of Meriam Street, was moved to Oak Street in 1858. The cost for renovating the building for use as a fire station was $746.75. The building housed the Fire Department's first horse in 1903, which was then replaced by the chemical and hose wagon, the first motorized fire apparatus put in service in Greenwood in 1914. In November, 1924, a 1912 Webb pumping engine was relocated from the Central Fire Station to Greenwood, thereby changing the station designation from Hose 3 to Engine 2, its present identification. The engine pictured, a 600 GPM pumping engine, was purchased from the Seagrave Fire Apparatus Co., at a cost of $7000 and was placed in service as Engine 2 in 1929. The engine was replaced in 1955. The wooden fire station was razed in September, 1962 and replaced by the present wood-joisted masonry fire station in May, 1963. The building also housed the Greenwood Branch of the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Emmanuel Episcopal Church, parish house and rectory, circa 1905
  "The original portion of the Emmanuel Episcopal Church was erected on Water Street in 1881. The building was moved from Water Street to the north corner of Bryant and Main Streets in 1894, opposite the Common, to make way for the L.B. Evans Son shoe factory. The Andrew Young house, with two sheds and a barn, previously occupied the land at Bryant and Main Streets. In 1902, Mrs. James Clifton Pearson donated $10,000 to build the Parish House in memory of her husband, and in 1903, she donated an additional $8,000 to build the Rectory on Bryant Street. According to the Town's 250th anniversary publication, the Emmanuel Episcopal Church could trace its beginnings 'back 40 years or so, to the occasional servces held by Rev. William T. Smith, then rector of Christ's Church in Boston and Rev. Frederick S. Wiley, then rector of Christ's Church of New York, and a native of the Town.' A mission was formed in 1869, and on Easter 1870, the congregation organized itzelf into a parish which united with the diocese of Massachusetts the following year. Services were held in various rooms and halls for the next 10 years until the church edifice was erected at a cost of $5,000." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Elks Funfest, 1930
  "The Wakefield Lodge of Elks held a Funfest on Factory Field to raise money for the organization's charities. Originally scheduled to be held Friday through Monday (Labor Day), the carnival was extended to Wednesday due to inclement weather on Friday and Monday. The organization decided to extend the carnival rather than postpone it to the next weekend because the pony and goat rides, and the perishable stock could not be held until the weekend. The carnival featured two nights of firework displays, concerts by Michael Sibelli and his band, and the awarding of two automobiles and two diamond rings. Factory Field was developed as Victory Village in 1939." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Elk Spring Beverage Company, 1944
  "The Elk Spring Beverage Company was established in 1921 by John F. Drinkwater, Sr. at the corner of Lowell and Vernon Streets. The company grew from a small beginning to become one of the leading soft drink bottling plants in the vicinity. Elk Spring produced 'all season soft beverages of quality and wholesomeness.' The beverages were manufactured from pure spring water procured from a well which was driven 250 feet deep, and only the highest grade extracts and juices were used. The company boasted a manufacturing process which was the finest and cleanest of its sort, with unexcelled ingredients and bottles which were washed by machine. This allowed a 10-minute sterilization period before going to the filler. With the repeal of Prohibition, the company expanded to meet the times and added the distribution of malt products to their business. The company became a wholesale distributor of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer and ale and Pickwick Ale, which created further expansion of their facilities. Drinkwater retired in 1944 and left the management of the business to his five sons: Frank, John Jr., Benjamin, Patrick and Jeremiah. In 1961, the plant was enlarged through the razing of the family's home which was built in 1740, as well as a 'filling station' which was located at the front of the property." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Elizabeth E. Boit
  "Elizabeth Eaton Boit, the first woman in the United States to be actively involved in the manufacture of textile goods, was born in Newton on July 9, 1848 [i.e. 1849] to James H. and Amanda (Berry) Boit. She attended Newton public schools and the Lasell Seminary at Auburndale for two years. In 1866 at the age of 18, Miss Boit was employed by Dudley Hosiery Mill as timekeeper for the sewing department and was later promoted to forewoman. She was later named Superintendent of the Allston Mills at Cottage Farm, the first position of its kind ever held by a woman. In 1888, she and Charles N. Winship, her co-worker at both Dudley Hosiery Mill and Allston Mills entered into a partnership for the manufacture of ladies undergarments with a combined investment of $2500. The firm, Winship, Boit & Company served as proprietor of the Harvard Knitting Mills and began their operation in Cambridgeport, employing 25 workers who produced 20 dozen garments each day. The company moved to Wakefield in 1889 and occupied the entire third floor of the Wakefield Block, later known as the Taylor Building. At the time 40 workers were employed and the firm boasted 10 knitting machines and five sewing machines. Business increased and the company later occupied several other floors in the building. In 1895, the company employed 160 workers, mostly young ladies, in the factory and between 200 to 250 additional workers who crocheted the finish work in their own homes. At the time the company expanded their line to include infants', children's, ladies' and men's undergarments and did a business of $250,000. Miss Boit served as Superintendent in charge of the office and the business management of the firm. In 1897 the firm purchased a parcel of land at the corner of Lake and Albion Streets. Eventually the firm would occupy over 8 acres of space as several additions were built over the years. She was a friend to her workers and built a 'mini hospital' at the factory for Harvard Knitting Mills employees in 1917 and instituted a maternity leave for the women. Miss Boit was active in the community and was the first woman in the country to serve on the Board of Directors of a bank, (Wakefield Co-operative Bank). She was also active in the First Baptist Church and was involved in several real estate transactions including the Boit Apartments on Richardson Avenue. Miss Boit served as a founder and Treasurer of the Wakefield Home for Aged Women which was established in 1894 to 'furnish a home for women who have been residents of the town of Wakefield not less than ten years.' The home was constructed at 5 Bennett Street and was renamed the 'Elizabeth E. Boit Home for Aged Women' in 1921 in recognition of her generosity and faithful assistance in the management of the home. She passed away in 1932 at her home which is located at the corner of Chestnut and Prospect Streets." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Elite Quality Shop, 1933
  "Elite Quality Shop, a shoe store featuring a complete line of shoes for men, women and children, opened in the Curley Block at the corner of Main and Mechanic (Princess) Street in 1919. Owner Julius Starkman moved the store to the opposite corner of Main and Mechanic Streets after buying the north third of the Walton Block in 1939. Starkman died in 1956 and his widow sold the shoe store to Jack Rubenstein in 1963." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Electric car coming from Lynn, Water Street near Brook Street, late 1890's
  "The Wakefield & Stoneham Street Railway Company was established in 1889, and received a charter three years later. The first tracks ran from Wakefield center to Stoneham, connecting Wakefield with the Lynn & Boston road to Melrose and Woburn. In the fall of 1893, tracks were laid from Wakefield Town Hall via Water Street through Saugus to the Lynn city line, establishing a direct connection with the city of Lynn. In 1894, after much opposition, the company extended its lines to Reading via Main and Lowell Streets. In 1895, an electric line from Reading to Billerica was made with a connection to the Lowell electric street car system. The completion of this road provided a direct electric line between Lynn and Lowell, with Wakefield as an important street railway center for the entire system." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Education in Wakefield
  "The early settlers of Reading were men and women of modest means, concerned primarily with the building of modest domiciles for themselves, meeting houses, and sanctuaries where they could worship in peace. The first meeting hosue, built before 1647, no doubt exhausted their resources and left them with little from which to build their school. In 1680 the town was criticized by the General Court for definciency of a grammar school, causing the townspeople to make arrangements for one of their own to educate the children. The first schoolmaster was Master John Brown, Esq., one of the best educated and influential settlers. In 1693, 50 years after the town's incorporation, the town ordered that there should be a 'free' school kept in the town and appropriated four pounds for its support. The first teacher of the free school was Nicholas Lynde from Charlestown, a graduate of Harvard College in 1690. Students were taught by one teacher who traveled to different sections of the town. This teacher was responsible for teaching students in those sections for three to four months each year, a term determined by the Selectmen. In 1708, a committee was selected to help the town officials superintend the schools. This committee, not the first formal school committee, consisted of Capt. John Brown, Lieut. Hananiah and Ens. Nathaniel Parker. From 1721 to 1778, each separate parish was responsible for the care and support of the schools under the watch of the parish assessors who served as an unofficial school committee. The second schoool house was built in what is now Reading in 1708 and in 1799 Wakefield built three new school houses, one for the center district, one for the west and one for the south. The center district school was located at the northerly end of the Common and measured 28' x 24' and could seat, uncomfortably, about 100 pupils. In compliance with a law passed by the Legislature, the grammar school was established in 1791 and would be distinct from the English school. (These latter schools were schools in;Captions: 1. James F. Blackinton, first High School Master (principal). -- 2. Wakefield High School's first football team (1893).
• Eaton family
  "Without the dedication and interest of members of the Eaton family, Wakefield would not be in possession of such detailed accounts of her history. Several members of the family have recorded important data, chronicled the information and presented it to the town during an anniversary or dedication ceremony throughout the years. Much of the interest in the town's history was stirred by Lilley Eaton, a descendant of Jonas Eaton, one of the early settlers. Lilley once said he found delight in his quest 'to inquire after the old paths and to walk therein.' Lilley Eaton was born on January 13, 1802 and was brought up in his father's store at the corner of Main and Salem Streets. His father, himself active in municipal affairs, would welcome transient clergymen in the home which soon became known as 'the Pilgrim's Hotel.' On the upper floors of this dwelling, his father held religious and social meetings attended by members of the Young Baptist Society. It was in this environment that Lilley Eaton grew, both in mind and body. He attended Bradford Academy, but his education was cut short by the sudden death of his father in 1822. He returned home and being the eldest son, assumed the responsibilities of the family business. His knowledge of town affairs and his business sense soon elevated him to a position of respect within his hometown. He was involved in all aspects of town government, serving as a Selectman for 25 years, Representative to the General Court for seven years, Senator for two years, a member of the School Board for 25 years, Town Clerk for 20 years, a Trustee of the Public Library from its inception, a Justice of the Peace for 28 years, and served as a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1853. He was the principal writer of deeds and wills in the town, transacted considerable probate business and served as administrator, executor and guardian for the settlement of several estates. Mr. Eaton was active not only in town office, but in other endeavors of the town. He served on several committees, including the South Reading Academy, the Town House of 1834, the South Reading Stage Company, the High School, the South Reading Mechanical and Agricultural Institution, the South Reading Lyceum, the South Reading Bank, the Citizens' Gas Light Company, the Public Library and Reading Room, the Lakeside Cemetery and the change of the town's name to Wakefield. It was also Lilley Eaton's influence which brought about the system of common schools in Wakefield. He was instrumental, too, in shaping municipal government in South Reading. His talent shone the brightest in his 'History of Reading.' a complete, detailed history of the current towns of Wakefield, Reading, and North Reading. The last years of his life were spent laboring over the book. Lilley Eaton died on January 16, 1872 before the finishing touches were completed. The task of completing the chronicles was performed by his brother John Sullivan Eaton and the work was printed in 1874. Younger by several years, John Eaton was a civil engineer by education and trade, but was in possession of a rare literary talent and was a genuine poet. He wrote and recited poems for several celebrations held in the town during his lifetime. He, too, served as a Selectman for 13 years, an Assessor for 5 years and was the Overseer of the Poor for 6 years. In 1858 he was a Representative to the General Court." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Durant's Motors and Gulf Station, 795 Main Street, Greenwood, 1949
  "Several car dealerships were located in Wakefield, selling models which ranged from Chevrolets to Oldsmobiles, DeSotos, Plymouths, Buicks and Studebakers. Durant Motors, located at 795 Main Street in Greenwood, was owned and operated by John Durant, who later developed the Tuttle Street area in the early 1960s. Durant's first auto repair business, Greenwood Motors, was located at 885 Main Street near Melrose. In 1939, he moved his business to 6 Greenwood Street, and in 1940, he was appointed as a Plymouth and DeSoto dealer. He opened a showroom at 89 Albion Street. After serving his country during World War II, he purchased the 795 Main Street property in 1946. Soon after, he aquired the Studebaker franchise. According to records of the time, Studebaker 'originated a new idea in car styling. The new closed car with an open car outlook on the passing scene is something out of the ordinary.' The 1949 trucks were also 'brand new in design and performance.' In addition to selling cars, Durant's Motors also had a modern service station with factory-trained experts. In December, 1952, Durant Motor Sales was sold and became Alan Motors of 793 Main Street." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Dr. Curtis Levi Sopher, WMGLD Commissioner
  "Dr. Curtis L. Sopher, a native of South Portland, Maine, served as a Commissioner for the Wakefield Municipal Gas & Light Department (then the Wakefield Municipal Light Department) for 41 of the 44 years from 1902 to 1946. He succeeded Silas W. Flint, one of the original Commissioners when he was first elected in 1902. Dr. Sopher served as chairman and secretary of the department several times and was the temporary manager of the department during a vacancy. He made several attempts to retire from the Board however, he was always the unanimous selection when a death or retirement from the Board was brought before joint special elections held by the Selectmen and the Commissioners. In addition to his service to the Light Board, Dr. Sopher served on a special water committee of the Finance Committee in 1919, on the Planning Board from 1917 to 1922, and as the chairman and secretary of the Board of Health during the late 1890s. He was also the Town's fuel administrator during World War I, and was called into service again during the coal strike of 1922-23 when Massachusetts officials required the supervision of all coal purchasing and distribution in the cities and towns. A physician and surgeon for 56 years, he started his practice in 1892 in Wakefield after his internship at Lynn Hospital and two years as a Medical Examiner. He was the first to install an x-ray machine in his office, which was in his home, in 1897. As this new machine and major medical advancement was the source of considerable curiosity among the townspeople, he held frequent demonstrations for his patients and friends. Dr. Sopher was the assistant physical examiner for the draft in World War I and was the first president of the Wakefield Medical Associates in 1927. He was also a member of the Board of Management of Wakefield's first Ambulance Association in the early 1900s. Dr. Sopher died in October 1955 at his 6 Avon Street home." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Dr. Charles Dutton and William Deadman, March 31, 1914
  "In this photo, Dr. Charles Dutton and Mr. William E. Deadman appear to be discussing the news of the day outside the Wakefield Market. Mr. Deadman, specializing in provisions, sold beef, ham, pork, lard, eggs, etc., at his Albion Street market. On March 30th of that year, Town Meeting members voted to appropriate $7400 to 'motorize' the Fire Department. With this money, the voters agreed to buy a towing or squad car for the steamer, a tractor for the hook and ladder, and a chassis for the Greenwood Hose 3 combination wagon. Furthermore, they voted to establish a Town planning board and to accept the Tenement Act, which would regulate the construction of buildings intended to house more than two families. Also, Town Meeting members voted to join in a petition to the Legislature that metropolitan water and sewerage system take over the Wakefield trunk-line sewer. However, they rejected an eight-hour law for Town employees." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, spring, 1959
  "Wakefield residents were treated to a rare sight one day in early spring when the Greenwood railroad station was dismantled and moved to Pleasure Island. The project, complete with accompanying trucks and the man perched on the building's highest peak, moved slowly through the main streets of Wakefield to Pleasure Island Road (now Audubon Road). The 80-ton building was hoisted onto the flatbed of the truck and taken to Pleasure Island, where it was used as the Pleasure Island and Western Railroad Station. Children of all ages boarded 'Old Smokey' at the station and embarked on a journey through the park." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, Main Street, circa 1890s
  "The building at the right of the picture, built in 1875 by Joseph Connell and Thomas Curley, was actually two separate but adjoining buildings, one owned by Asa Boothby, the other owned by the estate of Thomas Curley. In 1903, William T. Curley and his brother, Leo purchased the building, known as the Connell-Curley Block for $9,000. The block, on of the town's largest, was torn down in 1939 to make room for a 'modern' one-story building which was completed in 1940. The occupants at that time were Smith's Drug Store, Cubby Hole Gift Shop and Crystal Fruit Exchange. The buildings to the left were also replaced in the early 1940s by a modern, brick building which housed the Atlantic and Pacific chain store, Russell's Electric Shop, Friends Bakery, and Nagle's Drug Store." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, July 4, 1922
  "Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, the July 4th celebration was touted as a $5,000 celebration, $1,000 of which was for fireworks. A 50 foot banner, advertising the celebration was strung across Wakefield square on a Saturday, 'just in time to catch the eye of the Sunday automobile traffic.' The banner was suspended between the roof of the Chamber of Commerce building and the Kingman Block and was of the 'net style' so that the banners advertising the July 4th celebration could be taken down and the net used to promote other town-wide celebrations. To promote participation in the parade, the Executive Committee agreed to allow prizes for floats in the following divisions: male section, fraternal finest appearance, fraternal women's section and women's organization making the finest appearance. Rain postponed or canceled many of the events which were scheduled on that day. The midnight bonfire went off as planned, as did the parade and the bell ringing at 6 a.m. The fireworks were postponed until July 6th because of dampness and the scheduled parachute jump, flying exhibition and 'hair-raising stunts by Richard Cobb and Harold D. Cates' were canceled due to low clouds. To pay for this event, every person in Wakefield was encouraged to give a $1.00 donation." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, January 24, 1935
  "The town of Wakefield was hit by a blizzard that began during the early afternoon hours of January 23rd, and ended in mid-morning on January 24th. Hailed as 'the worst blizzard in years' the snow reached a depth of 16 inches during the 20-hour storm. Accompanied by high winds and intense cold, the storm brought the community to a standstill. Transportation was paralyzed, schools were closed, motorists were stranded and cars were left on side roads, hampering the efforts of the plows. The only streets which remained open were the main roads, several of which were covered over shortly after being plowed, due to the winds which reached 30 to 40 miles per hour. Drifts of six to eight feet were not uncommon. The regular highway crews, using 11 trucks, were joined by approximately 300 ERA workers to clear the streets and sidewalks. The storm caused many people to be stranded in Boston or at their place of business. Charles McCarthy, owner of McCarthy's Market, and his clerk, William McKeon, found it impossible to reach their homes and were forced to remain in the store throughout the night." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, circa 1895-1900
  "Photo taken in front of the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Downtown Wakefield, 1933
  Image from the Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department annual calendar, 2007
• Diamond Lil Saloon, Pleasure Island, 1959
  "The Diamond Lil Saloon, located in the Western section of Pleasure Island, was the first building to be constructed in the park and was built as 'an exact replica of the old western style architecture of the 1890s.' Just as it was at Disneyland, the first building became the 'shop' where the props and other components for the park were built. The 2,700 sq. ft. Diamond Lil Saloon was designed by Hollywood movie specialists who also supervised its construction. The saloon interior and decorations, including its mahogany bar and tin ceiling, were reported to have cost $50,000, an expense that was divided evenly among the owners of Pleasure Island and Pepsi-Cola, the saloon sponsor. The Diamond Lil show was the most popular entertainment in the park with four shows on weekdays and five on Saturdays and Sundays. The show was written and produced by Lloyd Settle who previously worked for both Disneyland and Pacific Ocean Park, the elaborate 'new theme parks in California.' Settle brought out two performers, headliners Charmaine Harma (Diamond Lil) and Champ Butler (Ragtime Cowboy Joe) from Pacific Ocean Park to Pleasure Island to appear in the show. Buddy Farnham (Sourdough MacPherson) was also in the show. When Pleasure Island opened for its second season on June 18th, 1960, Pepsi-Cola had already pulled out as a commercial exhibitor, putting an end to the Diamond Lil show. The saloon was used as a venue for silent movies and local high school and college performances until the park closed in 1969. On April 1, 1971, the saloon, its adjoining print shop, the Chisolm Trail and the former Greenwood Station were destroyed by arson. The Diamond Lil bar was salvaged and is currently part of the Peppermint Saloon ice cream parlor at Clark's Trading Post." - Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Donofrio.
• Department of Public Works
  "The Wakefield Department of Public Works is one of the youngest town departments, having been founded in the 1950s. Responsible for the maintenance of public properties, buildings, parks, trees, cemeteries, sidewalks, roads and highways, and for providing water and sewer service to the town, the DPW has a total of 83 employees in the various divisions. Prior to its formation, the departments now consolidated under the DPW were the responsibility of other town boards and sometimes acted as an independent entity. The Highway Department and the Public Building Department reported directly to the Board of Selectmen, and the Water and Sewer Department, the Forestry Department and the Cemetery Department operated on their own. Today the DPW reports to the Board of Public Works, a town board with five members elected for three year terms. T here are currently nine divisions reporting to the DPW Director: administration, equipment maintenance, public buildings, forestry and parks, cemeteries, highway, engineering, water and sewer. The DPW administration office is located in the Wakefield Town Hall and operates out of the Town Garage on North Avenue where the 56 registered vehicles are housed. Other DPW divisions are associated with the Nahant Street pit-storage area for salt and sand, loam, gravel, pipe, curb, snow disposal and leaf composting Broadway Pumping Station - headquarters for the water and sewer division, pumping station for Crystal Lake, and the control center for the Linden Street Pumping Station the Linden Street Pumping Station in Greenwood - the main source for the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority, the supplier of 80 percent of Wakefield's water and the Farm Street Sewer Pumping Station - the main sewer pumping station for Wakefield." -- Text from calendar.;Captions: 1. The Wakefield Water Company's Pumping Station and Superintendent's residence on the northern banks of Crystal Lake. The stations was built in 1883. -- 2. The Wakefield Sewer Department's low level pumping station on Water Street, 1929. -- 3. The Broadway Pumping Stations, 1961.
• Departing for war, Company A, Richardson Light Guard, May 6, 1898
  "The United States declared war against the Kingdom of Spain on April 26, 1898, in response to Spain's oppressive treatment of Cuba and the February 15th destruction of the US battleship 'Maine' in Havana Harbor. More than one-million volunteers answered President McKinley's call to help the 25,000 men in the US Army. A meeting of Company A, Richardson Light Guard was called on April 28, at which time 69 men enlisted. The following day, the number increased to 84. On May 5th, the night before the Guard's departure, the citizens of Wakefield held a grand farewell reception at the Town Hall. At 7:30 a.m. on May 6th, the assembly signal, 12-12, was given on the fire alarm, calling the townspeople to escort the men to the train station. Thousands assembled at the station, and schools were closed for the day. The members, clad in fatigue uniforms, with leggings, canteens, haversacks, overcoats and cartridge belts, boarded the Boston-bound train at 9 a.m. A train from Boston took them to the state campground at Framingham where they were inspected and accepted by the US Army." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Cyrus Wakefield estate, 1886
  "This view from the mansion of Cyrus Wakefield, looks south toward Crystal Lake. The grounds were said to have been as magnificent as the house. Cyrus Wakefield purchased an estate in South Reading in 1851, where he later built his 'splendid residence with its handsome surroundings' in the early 1860s. The house was made of stone, and was complemented by a barn and gazebo. The greenhouses can be seen in the photograph, as can the canals and the orchards. Following Cyrus Wakefield's untimely death in 1873, the house was occupied by his widow, Eliza Bancroft Wakefield, who died soon after in 1877. Since Cyrus and Eliza Wakefield had no children, the home was then occupied by nephew Cyrus Wakefield, II, who left it to his three children upon his death in 1888. The Town of Wakefield voted to buy the property from George L. Wakefield in 1913 at a cost of $25,000. Four years later, in 1917, Town Meeting voted to appropriate $280,000 to cover the cost of erecting and equipping a new high school building. This appropriation was increased to $450,000 in 1919. The building was occupied for insurance purposes only, although it was used as the town's headquarters of the Red Cross, Food Conservation, Civilian Relief, and other war-time departments during World War I. The City Building Wrecking Company of Charlestown tore down the mansion which had fallen into disrepair on October 17, 1921. The new high school, now the site of the Galvin Middle School parking lot, was dedicated in 1923." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Cyrus Wakefield
  "Although not born on South Reading soil, Cyrus Wakefield has become the unofficial 'father' of the town which eventually bore his name. Born in Roxbury, New Hampshire on February 14, 1811, he was descended from prominent families of the First Parish in Old Reading. His great-grandfather, Thomas Wakefield, was the son of Thomas Wakefield who came to Reading in 1730. An eager young man, Cyrus Wakefield gained his knowledge from the common school in Roxbury, New Hampshire, which was held three months each year. At the age of 15, he traveled to Boston and worked as a clerk in a grocery store for three years. He worked as a clerk for several other Boston stores and took advantage of the opportunities around him. He attended evening school, lectures, and private study and at the age of 23 he established the firm of Foster and Wakefield on Commercial Street in Boston. Two years later, in 1836, he formed a partnership with his brother, Wakefield and Company, which lasted until 1844. It was at this time that he recognized the potential in rattan, generally discarded as refuse. The rattan was accidentally purchased and sold at a profit to a few chair makers who, by hand, made the outside of the cane into seating chairs. The business grew rapidly and led to the dissolution of the grocery business and the continuation of his rattan business in a Boston office. Mr. Wakefield soon found that without machinery, the cost for preparing the rattan was too great. Utilizing a brother-in-law in China, he sent a sample of the cane most in demand and soon his Canton Split Rattan was known throughout the world. The supply soon became sporadic, yet the demand increased and in 1856 he resolved to begin the manufacture of cane in the United States using the whole of the rattan - the cane, the pith, and the shavings. He secured two hand machines and later moved to South Reading in 1856. Eventually water replaced hand power and later steam was added as the business increased. The business soon outgrew building after building;Captions: 1. Cyrus Wakefield in a portrait painted in 1873 by Thomas H. Badger. -- 2. The Wakefield Town Hall donated by Cyrus Wakefield as it looked in 1929.
• Cutler Bros. Grocery and Grain, corner of Water and Main Streets, July, 1911
  "After a five-day heat wave, an electrical storm tore through Wakefield on July 6, 1911. Accompanied by fierce winds from the southwest, the storm's vivid and continuous lightning hit several homes and buildings, injured many people, and tore up great trees by the roots. One bolt of lightning struck the wires on the pole at the corner of Water and Main Streets, entering the three-story Cutler Bros. building, setting off a spectacular blaze which threatened to 'wipe out the central manufacturing and business district.' The building was fully engulfed, and when the fire was out, several businesses were destroyed, including the grocery store, the Wakefield Paper Box Manufacturing Company (occupants of the third floor), and Godfrey & Barnard's Quannapowitt Bowling Alley and Pool Hall (in the basement). The total loss was set at $60,667. Other buildings were destroyed, including the Co. A 6th Regiment Armory, and a cottage house occupied by the Reynolds family. At the height of the blaze, the scene was a mass of tangled and dangling live wires. Members of the light department, along with representatives from the telephone company, and the Boston and Northern Street Railway, responded to the fire to cut off power. Work to restore service began the next day, as can be seen in the photograph." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Cubby Hole Gift Shop, 380 Main Street, circa 1940s
  "The Cubby Hole Gift Shop opened for business at 436 Main Street under the ownership of George and Janice Jenkins on May 1, 1937. In 1939 they sold the store to Janice's cousin, Nathaniel Blackstone of Melrose. The shop specialized in 'selected cards and gifts for every age and occasion, staionery and children's toys. A complete line of office supplies and a lending library of the newest books' were also included in the stock carried. Blackstone moved the store to a modern one-story office building, the Curley Block, at the corner of Main and Mechanic (now Princess) Street in late 1939. Smith's Drugstore moved to the corner location while Cubby Hole moved into the former drugstore location. The new store was 16 feet x 70 feet, an increase in space that enabled Blackstone to carry a larger and varied stock. In December 1939, the store was 'filled with Christmas gifts of every description.' Men's gifts included military brush sets, cigarette boxes, match holders, and pen and pencil sets. Gifts for women included orange and tomato juice sets, wooden trays, compacts, bracelets, lamps, miniatures, and pins. The Cubby Hole moved to 20 Albion Street in the Hibernian Building after a fire partially destroyed the Curley Block on October 16, 1949. In November 1954, Frank H. Terhune bought the Cubby Hole Card and Gift Shop. The store was re-named as the Cubby Hole Stationers, Inc. in June 1969 to reflect its stature as the leading retailer in the office supply field in the greater Wakefield area. At the same time, Terhune's son-in-law, John A. Doucette, Jr., had 'joined the management ranks' as president and sales manager, along with his wife, Nancy Jean, who became vice president and treasurer. The Doucettes moved the store to 13 Princess Street in 1985. In 1992, Cubby Hole Stationers, Inc. was unable to compete with the office supply chain stores and closed, ending a 55-year tradition." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Crystal Pharmacy, Greenwood, 1941
  "Located at 838 Main Street under the proprietorship of James E. Signorelli, the Crystal Pharmacy was situated in a business block which housed several other businesses, including a market and Tate's Lunch. According to published reports, Crystal Pharmacy specialized in prompt and accurate filling of prescriptions, 'carefully compounded by an expert registered pharmacist.' The reports go on to say that the proprietor had received many compliments on the neatness and cleanliness of the store and on the exceptionally large number of items carried in stock. The pharmacy opened for business in 1920 at the Greenwood location and carried a complete line of drugs, cosmetics, candy, toiletries, magazines, cigars and cigarettes. The soda foundation [i.e. fountain], with its line of Borden ice cream, was one of the most modern in the area. Crystal Pharmacy also acted as an agent for American Express money orders. The pharmacy was open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Crystal Lake from Harts Hill,1913
  "William E. Eaton's 'Handbook of Wakefield : a stranger's guide and residents' manual' describes this scene from Harts Hill: 'The natural character of the country in and about Wakefield flanked on either side by towering hills, seems to compel the various railway lines coming from the north, northeast and east, to converge at the Junction and to pursue their way together between the steep slopes of Hart's Hill and the margin of Crystal Lake, through the pretty village of Greenwood to the busy metropolis.' The Town of Wakefield took the title to the 23-acre Harts Hill in 1901, with the stipulation that it 'forever be kept open as a public park and reservation for the use of the people.' According to a 1939 Wakefield Daily Item article, the altitude of Harts Hill was 'the highest point above sea level on the Portland division of the B&M Railroad.' The elevation was said to be 111 feet above sea level." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Cross country, 1971
  "In 1921, cross country was referred to as 'one of the older sports of the school.' From 1910 to 1921, several runners made their mark in cross country both at the high school and collegiate levels. George Goodwin was the New England Interscholastic Cross Country Champion in 1916, winning the world school boy record for the mile and breaking the records for the one and two mile. As a student at Bowdoin, he held the record for the Maine Intercollegiate Mile and was a member of the 1920 United States Olympic Team. 1918 graduate William Burke captured the Western Conference record for the mile when he ran a 4 minute, 20 4/5 second mile while a student at Notre Dame. In 1953, the cross country team captured the Mass. State championship, and in 1955, WHS moved into Class A. Throughout the 1960s and most of the 1970s and into the 1980s, the WHS cross country team was among the most powerful in the state. Coach Squires' team captured the state championship in 1961, as did later teams (1972 and 1973). During the 1964-1965 school year, Coach John DiCommandrea's first year as coach, the team posted a 7-1 record, losing to Stoneham by a score of 30-25. By the 1970-1971 school year, the WHS cross country team had amassed 55 consecutive wins, a streak broken in 1971 at 60 consecutive wins. In 1973, the team's perfect 9-0 record gave Coach DiCommandrea his ninth league championship in 10 years, and a state Division II championship, repeated the following year. The winning ways continued, and by 1976, the team had 104 wins and four losses. League titles were won in 1981, (runner-ups in Division III states), and 1982 (Division III champions). In a fitting tribute to the current coach John DiCommandrea, at the time a shop teacher at the Junior High School, a September 1955, Wakefield Item column noted that he was the third American to cross the finish line in the 1955 running of the Boston Marathon. ' His steadfast training practice of running 10 miles each night and his unyielding efforts in any race from 3 to 26 miles have reaped John a harvest of some 150 trophies, cups and medals.' The girls' cross country team began in 1977 under the direction of Coach DiCommandrea. The team won the Middlesex League championship in its first year of competition (1977) and retained the title the following year. In its first five years, the girls cross country team won three league championships. They brought the title home again from 1983 through 1985, and were state Division II champions in 1983 and 1984." -- Text from calendar.
• Corner of North Avenue and West Water Street, 1930
  "The land on which the Vincent Window Frame Company was located was originally owned by Nathaniel E. Cutler, a founding partner of Cutler Bros. wholesale and retail dealers of hay, flour, grain, groceries and poultry supplies, established in 1872. After his death, his land was sold to the Wakefield Real Estate and Building Association which then sold over 20 parcels of land to individuals and companies. Several light manufacturing companies have been located on the North Avenue property between Armory and West Water Streets since its development in the late 1910s, early 1920s. Prior to the Vincent Window Frame Company, the building was owned by the George E. Belcher Machine Company of Stoughton which purchased the factory building and land from the Westgard Machine Company in August, 1920. Records indicate that Westgard employed 42 employees in June, 1918. The Belcher Company also purchased two additional lots for expansion. In 1921, the company employed 43 workers, with an average weekly payroll of $750, and an annual average value of output of $50,000. Around the time of the Belcher Machine Company's purchase, the land to its east was developed by Steel Specialties of Waltham, and a 32' x 100' factory was built. The lot had 100' frontage on both West Water and Armory Streets, with a distance between each street said to be 200'. There was 'plenty of room for expansions and provisions for plenty of light for manufacturing purposes.' Over the years, the buildings have been occupied by several business, Metal Specialties Company and Collamore Woodworking being among them." -- Text from calendar by Jayne M. D'Onofrio.
• Corner of Main and Mechanic Streets (now Princess Street), circa 1860's
  Image from the Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department annual calendar, 1993