Ashland, Massachusetts dates back to about 1659 . In those days it was a stopping point on a major Indian trail which later became known as the Bay Path, connecting Cambridge and Connecticut. It was here that a community of Natick Indians was established as the Village of Magunkaquog. Sir Harry Frankland, a descendant of Oliver Cromwell, built a manor-house here in 1750. Once the original starting point of the world famous Boston Marathon, which still runs through Ashland, the town is also known as the site of Henry Warren's invention of the electric clock, later manufactured here under the Telechron name. For a while known as "Unionville," AshlandLexington, KY.

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Traces of Ashland's early history still live on, such as the supposedly haunted John Stone's Inn on Main Street in the town center which dates back to 1834. was incorporated in 1846, and was named after the home of Henry Clay in

Centrally situated in the Metrowest Boston area, Ashland is bordered by Sherborn on the east, Framingham on the north, Southborough on the west and northwest, and Hopkinton and Holliston on the south. Ashland is 20 miles east of Worcester, 22 miles west of Boston, and 191 miles from New York City. The town now boasts excellent transit facilities with the addition of a Commuter Rail stop.

Although predominantly residential, Ashland is committed to a close working relationship with its business community. Businesses, residents and visitors look forward to "Ashland Day", a not-to-be-missed annual celebration of traditional New England spirit.

The Ashland Public Schools continue to provide students with a well-rounded education. Families with school aged children can enroll them in one of the two elementary and two middle schools, one high school, or the vocational high school in neighboring Framingham. There is also the Pincushion Hill Montessori School, a private elementary school.

Ashland provides areas of interest for people of all ages. The Recreation Department offers a variety of programs offered throughout the year including after school activities, pre-school art, athletic programs, outings, and more. The Ashland State Park on Rte. 135 has 470 acres, including the 157 acre Ashland Reservoir, and provides opportunities for swimming, picnicking, boating, fishing, bicycling and hiking. For the shopping enthusiast, there are a number of of specialty shops, well-known retail stores, boutiques, and antique shops. From bicycling, leisurely walks, picnics in the park to shopping, dining, and culture events, Ashland offers something for every lifestyle.

Area Information

County: Middlesex

Incorporated in 1846

Town Government

Land area: 12.93 square miles

Population: 14,674

Median Income: $76,942