Did You Know...

In 1927, Natick opened its first junior high school, which was named for the Coolidge family.  It remained a junior high school until its closure in 1981.  In that time, the school had two principals - John J. Lane and Edward Casey.  In January 1982, the Natick Housing Authority took over the site, and turned it into Coolidge Gardens for senior housing.  In 2010, the former boy's gymnasium opened as the new home for the Natick Service Council.

The Coolidge family was prominent in Natick for many generations.  The former junior high sits on the property once occupied by the farm of William Leander Coolidge.  The farm house built in the mid 1700's was abandoned by the mid 1900's. 

The town tried unsuccessfully to find a buyer.  The house was ultimately destroyed as part of a fire department training exercise.

This Month in Natick History

Jan. 1, 1874: Morse Institute Library dedicated.

Jan. 2, 1905: Water coming from Dug Pond deemed unfit to drink.  A news article stated: "There is some trouble either at the pond or the reservoir, possibly the latter requires cleaning.  At the South Natick fire two weeks ago dead fishes were picked up in quantities which came through the hydrant."

Jan. 6, 1926:  Maria Hayes Home for the Aged (now Coolidge House) opens.

Jan. 13, 1834: Author Horatio Alger Jr. born.

Jan. 13, 1874: Fire destroys most of downtown Natick.

Jan. 15, 1982: Natick Housing Authority takes over Coolidge Junior High School site.

Jan. 24, 1911: Christ Lutheran Church incorporates.  The church began at Wilson Street, and has been at its present site on Union Street since 1970.

Jan. 25, 1969: Train crash along Route 135 near Mill Street.

Jan. 27, 1985: Heisman Trophy winner Doug Flutie honored with downtown parade, reception at Natick Mall.

Jan. 31, 1981: Father Giggi installed at St. Linus Parish.

 

1969 Train Crash along Route 135 near Mill St.