Hudson began in 1699 as a cluster of small industries in the northern part of the town of Marlborough, situated by the swift-flowing Assabet River. Through the years, the industries prospered and the largely immigrant workers began to bring their families to America from overseas. New homes were soon built for these families as stores, churches, and schools sprang up around town. As this factory neighborhood progressed and became self-reliant, residents petitioned the state government to become their own independent town. Because of their efforts, the town of Hudson was incorporated in 1866.