Rockland Park Commissioners Richard Furlong (left) and Bob Mahoney (right) with John H. Spurr, Jr., President of A.W. Perry, Inc.

Major donation by A.W. Perry, Inc.
to the Rockland Parks Department

The phrase “Roots in the community” is taken literally by A. W. Perry, Inc.  Perry has long had strong ties to Rockland, operating and developing properties there since its founding in 1884.  Its founder, Rockland native Alonzo W. Perry, set an example the company has followed throughout its history with gifts such as the original furnishings for the Rockland Public Library and the clock in the First Baptist Church steeple.  Over the years, the Company and its principals have supported such causes as the Rockland Education Foundation, scholarships for local students and contributions to Rockland’s police and fire departments.

In August, 2007, John H. Spurr, Jr, President of A. W. Perry, continued this support as he presented a check for $25,000 to the Town.   This contribution was made pursuant to a long term commitment the Company made to provide funding for capital improvements and capital equipment for the town’s parks.  This year’s contribution brings to $75,000 the amount the Company has funded to provide such improvements, which include a sprinkler system and maintenance equipment at Veterans Memorial Stadium, the town’s baseball and football facility.

According to Peter Ewell, Superintendent of Parks, “A.W. Perry’s contributions have helped us transform Veterans Memorial Stadium which is home to the Rockland Cardinals, a Cranberry League semi-pro team; American Legion Baseball; Little League Baseball; high school baseball and football.”

Part of the gifted funds were also utilized to purchase a long body trailer, infield grooming machine, brush cutters, leaf blowers, mower/tractor and various hand tools.  This equipment and the sprinkler system have enabled Rockland Parks personnel to greatly improve the playing surface at the 900 seat stadium.

After more than 120 years, A.W. Perry, a privately held real estate developer and investor still has deep roots in Rockland. The company is the developer of South Shore Technology Park which encompasses land in both Rockland and Hingham and has attracted major employers to high quality facilities including: EMD Serono, Inc., Venture Tape, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA.  The park includes a significant portion of Rockland’s developable commercial land and A.W. Perry is actively pursuing new opportunities. 

“Rockland is really our hometown and as such we take pride in the economic development that we have brought here and in being good corporate citizens.” noted Mr. Spurr, a Rockland native.  He added, “In the Rockland parks system, we saw a need, and we hope our commitment will play a significant part in keeping quality facilities available to Rockland residents for many years to come.