Ashland is one of the younger towns in the region, as it was initially divided between the towns of Hopkinton and Framingham, which were founded before it. It was not until 1846 that it was given the name Ashland and several rail lines passed through it. Numerous mills were built along the Sudbury River and a thriving shoe industry developed. However, the construction of three reservoirs brought the industry to a halt and the mills had to close.
Today you will find several restaurants and the beautiful Ashland State Park for hiking and recreation.