Incorporated in 1724, this area now includes a well-preserved collection of predominantly 19th century architecture.

The town was incorporated in 1724, named for Thomas Hollis, a wealthy English merchant.

[2] The town's major period of growth during the 19th century took place before the American Civil War, resulting in the construction of a number of fine Federal and Greek Revival houses in its center.

After the war, development remained slow until the arrival of the railroad c. 1900, when a number of brick commercial buildings went up.

Also built during this time was the Holliston Public Library (c. 1903), which received funding support from Andrew Carnegie.