History of Ashland, Massachusetts, USA

1750 - The area that was to become Unionville, later Ashland is settled

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1846 - Ashland is incorporated

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1854 - Ashland
Ashland, a post-township in Middlesex county, Massachusetts, on the Boston and Worcester railroad, 24 miles W. by S. from Boston. Population, 1804.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1854 - The Destructive Gate - Its Effects at the East.
...In Ashland, a new three-story frame building, 60 by 40 feet, not quite completed, belonging to Leland & Co., shoe manufacturers, was levelled to the ground...
The New York Times
New York, New York
March 21, 1854

Ashland Massachusetts, 1890
Ashland is a brisk and beautiful town in the southwest of Middlesex County, on the Boston and Albany Railroad, about midway between Boston and Worcester. Southboro lies on the northwest and Sudbury on the southeast; on the north and northeast is Framingham, and on the south, Hopkinton and Holliston. From the last three towns its territory was taken. It was incorporated March 16, 1846. Its area is near 7,832 acres (about 14 square miles, including highways); of which 1,774 acres are woodland. The inhabitants number 2,633, having 447 dwelling-houses. The valuation in 1888 was $1,340,107; and the rate of taxation, $14 on $1,000.

The Sudbury River runs through the town from west to east, affording seats for several factories. Indian, Wiremill and Cold-Spring brooks, its tributaries, are noted for trout. There are a woollen, a cotton, and several boot and shoe factories in the town, affording employment to about 600 persons, and having a yearly product (1885) of $1,261,358. The largest... Read MORE...

1895 - Ashland
Ashland, a post-village of Middlesex co, Mass., in Ashland township, and on the Boston & Albany Railroad, 24 miles W.S.W. of Boston, and 20 miles E. of Worcester. A weekly newspaper is published here. Ashland has 3 churches, manufactures of boots, carriages, paper &c. Pop. of township, 2211. It is also a terminus of the Hopkinton Railroad, which affords connection with Providence.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Ashland, a post-village and township (town) of Middlesex co., Mass., on the Boston and Albany and other rail roads, 24 miles WSW. of Boston. It has manufactures of nails, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1525. The banking town is South Framingham.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to see and things to do in and around Ashland:
Ashland State Park:

Start your visit with a stroll or a bike ride around Ashland State Park. Enjoy the scenic views of the reservoir and take advantage of the hiking trails. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or just some outdoor relaxation.

The Warren Conference Center and Inn:

Explore the Warren Conference Center and Inn, which is surrounded by beautiful grounds. They often host events, and the area is serene, making it a nice place for a quiet walk.

Ashland Farmers Market:

If you happen to be in Ashland on a Saturday morning (seasonal), check out the Ashland Farmers Market. It's a great place to pick up fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy a sense of community.

Stone's Public House:

Grab a bite to eat at Stone's Public House, a historic tavern that dates back to 1834. The cozy atmosphere and hearty menu make it a local favorite.

Avidia Bank Clock Tower:

Admire the Avidia Bank Clock Tower in downtown Ashland. It's a distinctive landmark and a great spot... Read MORE...