Politics & Government

Former Winchester Representative Honored for Years of Service

The Winchester Town Common will be dedicated to Sherman "Whip" Saltmarsh

A few years ago, Winchester Athletic Director Brian Caroll lost his father. Before the January service, eight to 10 inches of snow fell on Winchester.

“When my family woke up, we heard shoveling and when we looked outside, there was Whip [Saltmarsh] with his pickup truck shoveling and sanding,” Carroll said. “He told me that years ago Winchester would plow out any family that lost a loved on. He explained it was the right thing to do and that’s why he did it.”

As opening night of Town Meeting was coming to an end, Town Meeting Members voted unanimously to support Article 3, which dedicates the to the long-time Winchester State Representative and Selectmen – Sherman “Whip” Saltmarsh.

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“When we lost our assistant hockey coach a few years ago, Mary O’Donnell played for her dad,” Carroll said. “There was a snowstorm that day and I stressed to the kids the importance of helping each other out in times of need. We had 25 kids shoveling at the family because it was the right thing to do. And dedicating the Common to Whip is the right thing to do.”

When the Winchester hockey team was set to host Woburn for the championship at O’Brien Rink in Woburn, it was Saltmarsh who called his alma mater, Boston College, and switched the venue to Conte Arena. And it was Saltmarsh who secured the rink, paid for buses and the snack bars.

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When Carroll tried to get the team to play at Fenway when the stadium was preparing for the Winter Classic, it was Saltmarsh who helped fund the event.

“I got a call and was told it would be $10,000 to play for an hour at the rink, and they needed to know in 30 minutes if we wanted to reserve it,” Carroll said. “I made two calls – one to a parent who donated $2,500. And then I called Whip and my fundraising effort was over.”

“Saltmarsh is a great inspiration to many people,” said Paul Manganaro. “His commitment, passion, love of the community is unparalleled. I don’t think there’s a more deserving individual.”

Saltmarsh was the Winchester State Representative for 15 years, the Citizen of the Year in 1981 and was a two-time member of the Board of Selectmen.

“He’s a true citizen of Winchester,” said Selectman Jim Johnson. “He improved the quality of life for the citizens of Winchester and Massachusetts. He’s always available to aid and support the town. Whenever he’s needed, he’s there.”

"I don't know anybody in my life that has done more for people through illness, financial trouble, whether they're lonely or sick, I don't know abybody do more for others than Whip," said Town Moderator, John Sullivan.


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