Jack Moynihan Honored with Lynnfield’s Townsend Award for Service

Jack Moynihan, co-owner of Moynihan Lumber and a long-time community figure, received the Daniel Townsend Award for Excellence during a recent meeting of the Lynnfield Select Board. This award recognizes residents for their exceptional service and commitment to the community.

Honoring a Local Leader

The award, presented on October 24, 2023, was highlighted by Board Chair Phil Crawford, who stated that it is given to individuals who exemplify “excellence in the area of volunteerism.” The award is named after Daniel Townsend, a notable figure in Lynnfield’s history who lost his life in the Battle of Menotomy on April 19, 1775, during the American Revolution.

Moynihan was nominated by former Select Board Chair Chris Barrett, who praised his dedication to the town. Barrett shared a passage from his nomination letter: “Jack’s contributions to our community span over multiple decades. He has not only achieved a remarkable success in his professional life, but he has consistently given back to the Town of Lynnfield in countless ways, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a true community leader.”

A Legacy of Community Service

Crawford emphasized the importance of long-term contributions, noting, “We really look for people who have made decades of contributions. I think Jack Moynihan really does personify what the award is about.” Select Board member Dick Dalton added, “It’s been 50 years of being a model citizen. Jack and his wife Hilda Moynihan, who is always by his side, do things without seeking any publicity. There’s just so much good that they do throughout the year.”

Moynihan’s commitment to Lynnfield dates back over 40 years. He joined the Couple’s Club early in his community involvement, forging lasting relationships with other civic-minded individuals, including past Townsend Award recipients Al Merritt and David Drislane. Barrett noted Moynihan’s significant contributions, which include serving as Chair of the Comprehensive Housing and Planning Committee, where he developed “a roadmap to guide prospective homeowners through the complexities of Town boards and committees.”

Additionally, Moynihan played a key role in the Partridge Island project, the acquisition of the Lynnfield Center Golf Course, and the development of housing units on Main Street. Barrett remarked that Moynihan “served with great distinction on the finance committee,” helping the town navigate challenging economic times while maintaining fiscal stability and essential services.

Among his many achievements, Moynihan was instrumental in founding Lynnfield’s middle school and expanding other educational institutions. He also provided guidance on the development of MarketStreet and continues to volunteer with the Rotary Club. His company, Moynihan Lumber, supports student athletes in the North Shore through the North Shore Student-Athlete Award, recognizing promising young talent on a monthly basis.

In his acceptance speech, Moynihan expressed gratitude to the Board, Barrett, and his family, particularly highlighting his wife’s support throughout their years of community service. He concluded with a powerful message: “In all the roles I have been fortunate to take part in, there is one theme that runs through it all: service above self.”

The recognition of Jack Moynihan serves not only as an acknowledgment of his individual contributions but also as an inspiration for others in the community to engage in volunteerism and support their local areas.