What if I told you the Westwood Town Pound once held more than just stray animals? This seemingly simple stone enclosure has a rich story. It is a story deeply intertwined with the history of Westwood itself.
The Westwood Town Pound is located on High Street near Route 128. This pound dates back to 1700. Lieutenant Joseph Colburn was hired to build it for 40 shillings. Back then Westwood was still part of Dedham known as West Dedham.
Originally, the Westwood Town Pound had a wooden fence. It was soon replaced by the stone wall that we see today. These stone fences were common in Massachusetts. Disturbing them is actually a crime due to their historical importance.
In those days, livestock roamed freely. They grazed on common lands. If an animal wandered off and caused trouble on someone’s property it ended up in the pound. The town-appointed pound-keeper watched over these animals. Owners had to pay a fee to get their animals back.
But the Westwood Town Pound wasn’t just for animals. It also served as a lost-and-found. If you lost something you might find it here. Many Massachusetts towns had a town pound. Not many still exist today.
The Westwood Town Pound is so important that it appears on the Westwood Town Seal. The seal shows the pound with a magnificent oak tree inside. This oak was thought to be 600 years old. Sadly, the Hurricane of 1938 destroyed it.
Many replacement trees were planted. None survived for long. The Westwood Young Women’s Club and the Westwood Historical Society have worked to restore this landmark. A new sign was put up a year ago. It replaced an older, chipped one.
In 1899, Massachusetts required all towns to have an official seal. Lucius Damrell, a descendant of Nathaniel Colburn, created the sketch for Westwood’s seal. It featured the Westwood Town Pound.
Interestingly, Westwood still appoints a pound-keeper today. It is a symbolic gesture. It is a nod to the town’s history. Ron Chiurri currently serves as the “Keeper of the Pound”. He mows the grass and maintains the site. The white oak in the center faces a rare fungus disease.
The location of the Westwood Town Pound has changed over time. Road renovations have made it less visible. Despite this, it remains an important symbol of Westwood. It is a reminder of a time when communities relied on these enclosures. The Westwood Town Pound stands as a testament to Westwood’s past. It connects us to the early days of this town. It also connects us to the importance of community. Next time you pass by take a moment to appreciate this unique piece of history.