Harold W. Wells was born in Somerville, Massachusetts, to Mary E. (née Coughlin) and James B.
He attended Tufts College and majored in chemistry, but left after his second year due to the Great Depression.
[1][2][3] Wells served in the United States Navy during World War II.
[1] The Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team found evidence in 1971 that he favored five contractors while mayor and gave half a million dollars of no-bid business to them.
[1] Wells was owner and manager of Marwel Jewelers in Magoun Square in Somerville.