Was Auburndale always a bustling village? Not quite. Imagine a time long before the Massachusetts Turnpike sliced through its heart. Picture William Robinson in 1678. He built a home on what is now Freeman Street. This marked the beginning of Auburndale a quiet settlement far from the city’s clamor. Auburndale nestled among three other Newton villages West Newton Waban and Newton Lower Falls. It bordered Waltham and the Charles River. This quiet area would later become Auburndale-on-the-Charles known for its amusement park Norumbega Park.
Auburndale’s early years were a mix of quiet life and grand ambitions. The oldest house still standing at 473 Auburn Street dates back to 1730. It reflects a simpler time. This contrasts with the later development of Norumbega Park. Opened in 1897 this park boasted rides a zoo and boating. It aimed to boost trolley line patronage between Boston and Auburndale. The park’s popularity soared attracting crowds to its theater gardens restaurants arcade and the famous Totem Pole Ballroom. This era of Auburndale was a vibrant one filled with laughter and the thrill of amusement.
However the rise of the automobile and improved roads signaled the end of an era. Norumbega Park closed in 1963. The Totem Pole Ballroom followed a year later. Yet the spirit of Auburndale persevered. The area now boasts over 80 acres of conservation land. It still offers access to the Charles River. This shows the enduring appeal of this unique place.
Today Auburndale is a blend of history and modern life. It’s home to Williams and Burr elementary schools and Lasell College. Auburndale Square houses the Plummer Memorial Library. The Turtle Lane Playhouse also thrives here. The area is well-connected via the MBTA Green Line and Commuter Rail. Its location near the intersection of I-90 and I-95 makes commuting easy.
However Auburndale faces modern challenges too. The text mentions increased density and concerns about tree loss. The historic district with approximately 275 properties is under pressure. Yet Auburndale’s rich history its scenic beauty and strong sense of community remain its enduring strengths. This makes Auburndale a fascinating place to explore. A place where past and present intertwine.