Southborough was officially incorporated in 1727, having split from the “mother town” of Marlborough to form its own community rooted in agriculture and small-scale milling. During the 19th century, the town’s identity underwent a significant transformation as it became a prestigious destination for wealthy Boston families who established grand summer estates and “gentleman’s farms.” This era saw the rise of Deerfoot Farms, which became a pioneer in the dairy industry by producing high-quality butter and sausages that were shipped throughout the Northeast. This period also solidified the town’s reputation as an educational center with the founding of elite institutions like St. Mark’s School and the Fay School. The landscape was further altered in the 1890s by the construction of the Sudbury Reservoir system, which flooded large portions of the town’s valleys but created the scenic, water-rich environment that remains its signature today.

Today, Southborough is one of the most affluent and highly-regarded residential communities in Massachusetts, known for its exceptional school systems and its blend of rural beauty and corporate vitality. Its strategic position at the intersection of the Massachusetts Turnpike and Route 9 has allowed it to attract a sophisticated professional population, particularly those working in the biotechnology and technology corridors. Despite its proximity to major highways and economic hubs, the town has meticulously preserved its “estate-like” character through careful zoning and the protection of expansive open spaces surrounding its reservoirs. The contemporary community successfully balances its role as a high-tech suburb with a commitment to maintaining its quiet, historic atmosphere, making it a premier destination for families and professionals seeking a high quality of life.