OHPA History

During the last several years many families have bought homes in Oak Hill Park. With all these new faces in the area, how many actually know the history of our neighborhood? The City of Newton consists of twelve villages - Auburndale, Chestnut Hill, Newton Centre, Newton Corner, Newton Highlands, Newton Lower Falls, Newton Upper Falls, Newtonville, Nonantum, Oak Hill, Waban, and West Newton.

Oak Hill Park is part of the Oak Hill village of Newton and borders the West Roxbury section of Boston. In the late 1940s, what was once an isolated sand and gravel pit became an attractive development of 412 homes - Oak Hill Park. Built originally to accommodate returning Newton World War II veterans and their young families, one-story three-bedroom houses (which then cost $7820!!) were constructed on concrete slabs with radiant heating - construction atypical of New England and initially viewed with suspicion by some. This suspicion was apparently unwarranted and here we are, more than 55 years later, with the houses still standing and the community vibrant with families who care about each other!

Shortly after the veterans moved in they formed the Oak Hill Park Association, which dealt with the city and developers, published a monthly newsletter, and became the dominant social and political force in the community. The new residents built a playground, planted trees, and helped each other build additions to their homes. They put on shows, plays, had block parties and barbecues, and would always be available to help one another. Because of the many children, the Memorial School (now the Solomon Schechter Day School) was built. The shopping center was later added to Oak Hill Park and became a vital place to gather for both shopping and socializing. During the period of the 1950s and 1960s, most mothers were at home and most families had one car, if any. On any day of the week, one could see many mothers and children walking, playing, visiting, shopping, etc. - a real neighborhood atmosphere and a wonderful place to raise a family. Needless to say, the location was ideal - close to downtown Boston, while the feeling of the Park was very suburban. Today, Oak Hill Park still remains a “neighborhood” in an age where many have disappeared. Its residents comprise a congenial mixture of ethnic and economic backgrounds, ages, vocations, interests, and talents. Of course, society and lifestyle changes have had their effect, but the OHPA tries its best to keep the cohesive feeling of the residents.

Oak Hill Park is a living memorial to World War II veterans, and as we recall these events that occurred decades ago, our present homeowners should know that the streets and paths were named for Newton veterans who gave their lives in World War II. From 261 servicemen, the 33 names now identified with this area were drawn impartially. The Memorial School (now Solomon Schechter Day School) was dedicated in honor of the remaining unsung heroes.

With further development of the area over the years, the Oak Hill Park Association has embraced the later-developed streets located between Wiswall Road and Spiers Road, including the south side of Dedham Street. Oak Hill Park now includes approximately 600 families and is still a wonderful place to create roots and raise a family!

Text transcribed from the poster at the Shuman Center.