The history of Foxborough dates back to the early 18th century. The first European settlers established themselves on these lands, which were originally part of the town of Dorchester, around 1704. Foxborough received official recognition and status as an incorporated town on June 10, 1778. Notably, the town was named after Charles James Fox, a prominent member of the British Parliament who, despite his background, actively supported the American colonies during their struggle for independence.
Key Factors of Development
The transformation of a small settlement into a developed town was driven by several factors:
Strategic Geography: Located roughly halfway between two major economic centers — Boston and Providence — the town became an important regional transit and trade hub.
Access to Resources: Local deposits of bog iron allowed for the development of early metalworking, which provided the impetus to move away from a purely agrarian lifestyle.
Early Cultural and Economic Characteristics
While the first inhabitants were primarily engaged in farming, Foxborough quickly gained a unique industrial identity.
The "Straw Hat Capital": In the 19th century, the town gained worldwide fame for its headwear production. The Union Straw Works factory founded here was considered the world's largest manufacturer of straw hats, forming the foundation of the town's economic prosperity during that era.
Traditional New England Way of Life: The town's cultural life formed around the central square (Foxborough Common), which historically served as a site for community meetings, parades, and public events, preserving the spirit of a classic American town.
Timeline
Key Milestones in the Town's History
1704 — The first European settlers, primarily engaged in agriculture, established themselves in the territory of the future town.
1778 — Foxborough was incorporated as a town and received its current name in honor of British parliamentarian Charles James Fox.
1853 — The Union Straw Works factory was founded; it soon became the world's largest producer of straw hats and the engine of the town's economy.
1879 — The historic Memorial Hall was built, dedicated to the memory of citizens who served the country.
1926 — The Orpheum Theatre opened, becoming an important cultural center and a venue for silent films.
1947 — The Bay State Raceway began operations, marking the beginning of Foxborough's transformation into a regional sports center.
1971 — Schaefer Stadium (later known as Foxboro Stadium) opened, becoming the first permanent home for the New England Patriots.
2002 — The modern Gillette Stadium officially opened, replacing the outdated 1970s arena.
2008 — Construction of the massive Patriot Place shopping and entertainment complex was completed, turning the stadium district into a year-round tourist destination.
2016 — The town hosted the prestigious NHL Winter Classic hockey game, confirming its status as a versatile New England sports capital.
Milestones
Stages of Development and Their Impact on the Townscape
The history of Foxborough is a journey from a modest farming settlement to a world-renowned sports and entertainment hub. Each era has left its mark on the architecture, economy, and lifestyle of local residents.
The "Straw City" Era (Mid-19th Century)
The emergence and prosperity of the Union Straw Works factory served as the first major economic driver. This production not only provided jobs for thousands but also stimulated residential construction, transforming an agrarian community into a prosperous industrial town with developed infrastructure.
Technological Reorientation (Early 20th Century)
When the fashion for straw hats faded, the town avoided economic decline thanks to The Foxboro Company. The shift toward high-tech production of industrial control and measurement instruments helped retain a skilled workforce and ensured the municipality's financial stability for decades to come.
Sports Urbanization (1970s)
The construction of the first major stadium fundamentally changed the town's status. Foxborough appeared on the map as the premier sports arena of New England. This required a massive overhaul of the road network and the creation of facilities to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors, forever altering the rhythm of life in this quiet suburb.
The "City within a City" Concept (2000s)
The launch of the Patriot Place project next to the new Gillette Stadium was a revolutionary urban planning solution. Creating a massive open-air shopping and entertainment complex transformed a seasonal sports location into a year-round tourist magnet, creating thousands of service-sector jobs.
Development as a Transportation Hub
Thanks to its advantageous location and growing tourist traffic, the town's railway station was modernized and highway interchanges were improved. This strengthened Foxborough's role as an important link between two state capitals — Boston and Providence.
Architecture
Architectural Character and Urban Planning
The urban structure of Foxborough is a classic example of the evolution of a New England settlement. The town is clearly divided into two architectural zones: the historic center, which preserves the cozy atmosphere of the 18th and 19th centuries, and a modern commercial and sports cluster on the periphery, characterized by large-scale 21st-century structures.
Historical Styles and Eras
The architecture of the town center reflects the transition from colonial farming to industrial prosperity and the subsequent preservation of its heritage.
Colonial and Federal Styles (18th – early 19th century): These are the town's oldest residential buildings. They are characterized by symmetry, wooden facades, gabled roofs, and central chimneys. These buildings form the perimeter around the main square.
Greek Revival (mid-19th century): This style became popular during the first economic boom. Buildings are distinguished by porticos, pilasters, and strict classical proportions reminiscent of ancient temples.
Victorian Eclecticism (late 19th century): The heyday of the hat industry brought more decorative styles to the town, such as Queen Anne and Italianate. This is evident in mansions featuring turrets, porches, and intricate woodwork.
Iconic Buildings and Districts
Several key landmarks define Foxborough's character, each symbolizing a specific stage in the town's development.
Foxborough Common: The heart of the town and its urban focal point. It is a green park surrounded by administrative buildings and churches, creating a traditional "New England town" ensemble.
Memorial Hall: Built in 1868, this architectural landmark is constructed of granite and combines elements of Gothic Revival and Romanesque styles. Originally serving as a school and library, it today stands as a symbol of civic pride and historical memory.
Orpheum Theatre: Built in 1926, this building represents the era of silent films and vaudeville. Its facade reflects the transition to the more functional public architecture of the early 20th century.
Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place Complex: An example of modern sports and commercial architecture. The stadium stands out with its industrial design and open structures, while the adjacent shopping complex mimics traditional urban development (a "lifestyle center"), creating a curated yet comfortable urban environment.
Notable People
Notable People of Foxborough
The destinies of talented inventors, athletes, and cultural figures who made significant contributions to the region and the country are closely linked with the town.
Seth Boyden Role: Inventor and industrialist.
Significance: A famous Foxborough native who became a pioneer of American industry. He developed technologies for producing patent leather and malleable iron, and also improved the hat-making process, which historically resonates with the town's industrial past.
Robert Kraft Role: Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and owner of the New England Patriots.
Significance: Although not born in the town, he is a key figure in its modern history. It was his vision and investment that led to the construction of Gillette Stadium and the Patriot Place complex, transforming a quiet town into the sports capital of New England.
Charles James Fox Role: 18th-century British parliamentarian and statesman.
Significance: The town's "godfather." Foxborough was named in his honor as a gesture of gratitude for his active support of American colonists' rights and the idea of independence during debates in the British Parliament.
Joanna "JoJo" Levesque Role: Singer, songwriter, and actress.
Significance: The popular R&B and pop artist spent her childhood years in Foxborough. She became the youngest solo artist in US history to have a single top the Billboard charts, bringing fame to her hometown in the world of show business.
Uriah Atherton Boyden Role: Civil engineer and inventor.
Significance: Seth Boyden's brother, also born in Foxborough. He invented a highly efficient water turbine (the Boyden turbine), which played a vital role in the development of hydropower and the Massachusetts textile industry in the 19th century.
Tom Nalen Role: Professional American football player.
Significance: A Foxborough native who achieved outstanding success in the NFL. Interestingly, despite being born in the town where the Patriots are based, Nalen spent his entire professional career with the Denver Broncos, winning two Super Bowls with the team.