town, Norfolk county, eastern Massachusetts, U.S., on the Neponset River, 14 miles (23 km) southwest of Boston. Settled in 1678, it was incorporated (from parts of Dedham and Walpole) in 1872. The town has a diversified economy, and many corporate offices are located there; products include computer components, imaging systems, drilling machines, pumps, and electronic instruments. Engineering research is another source of employment. The Norwood Memorial Municipal Building has a lofty 170-foot (52-metre) tower containing a 52-bell carillon. Area 10.5 square miles (27 square km). Pop. (1990) 28,700; (2000) 28,587.