The Town of Dover is a rural suburban community located southwest of metropolitan Boston. Incorporated in 1784, Dover relied on agriculture and grazing until the late 18th century when mills were developed. Since the late 19th century Dover has been a residential community with a semi-rural character.

-First settlement recorded in 1640
-Established as the Springfield Parish of Dedham in 1748
-Incorporated as District Dedham in 1784
-Incorporated as a Town in 1836