It was an event to hail the new as well as the old as Norfolk County Register of Deed William P. O’Donnell celebrated the rededication of the 116 year old Registry building as well as the launching of its new Volume 2 Edition of its Notable Land Records book.
The Register, with President John Adams at his side, gave a brief history lesson about a building which today is the repository of more than 8 million Norfolk County land records. “The old Registry building, located in Dedham, was built on land previously owned by Fisher Ames, a prominent member of the Federalist Party. Construction of this building began in 1903 and was completed in 1905.” Additionally, the Register mentioned how shrewd Norfolk County residents were to have purchased the land through legislation back in 1899 for $17,198.
O’Donnell also talked about the renovations and repairs that have taken place during the past few years. “We have done our best to preserve and improve the Registry of Deeds building including repairs to the granite outside edifice, a new roof, a new boiler, repaired ceilings and moldings, new wiring, more research space as well as interior painting. These renovations will allow Registry of Deeds staff to better serve the public and act on its core mission of recording and maintaining Norfolk County land documents in a secure, accurate and accessible manner.”
During the rededication event, attendees were able to stroll throughout the building and view the many notable land record exhibits. A land record of an extraordinary individual from each of the twenty-eight Norfolk County communities was highlighted for viewing. “The Norfolk County notable land record holders highlighted in our Volume 2 book are truly a diverse group that has made contributions both locally and nationally. Among those highlighted included noted conductor Leonard Bernstein, former White House chief-of-staff Andrew Card, Jr. and Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman,” noted the Register.
Those who attended were also treated to the singing of the Norwood High School Madrigals. Attendees also received a Notable Land Records Volume 2 book as well as getting a chance to talk to President John Adams, who was one of four United States Presidents who were born and lived in Norfolk County. If you are interested in a free book, please email agardner@norfolkdeeds.org or call the Registry of Deeds at 781-461-6104.
Register O’Donnell concluded, “The rededication of the Registry of Deeds building reflects the commitment made to preserve this historic building built in 1903 by the citizens of Norfolk County. By preserving this historic building and highlighting a notable land record holder in each of the twenty-eight Norfolk County communities, we are striving to make our county’s rich history come alive. As proud as we are of the past and the present, we are also excited about what the future holds for the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
################################################