Millis, Massachusetts

Millis is a small town in Norfolk County with a population of 7,891 – according to the 2010 census. The founder of Millis, Lansing Millis, successfully incorporated the town into the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on February 24, 1885. Lansing Millis played a key role in implementing the railroad system in Millis, which in turn played a major part in the early promotion of economic growth in the town through the integration of Millis to the larger cities of Dedham, Boston and Cambridge. This old railroad is known as the Bay Colony Railroad, and although the railroad is now mostly out of commission, several miles of the Bay Colony tracks in Millis are now owned by the MBTA.

Did you know…

• The Herman Shoe Company, housed in Millis, produced large amounts of material, specifically boots and other equipment, during the Spanish–American War. In addition, it produced most of the boots worn by the troops during World War II.
• A ginger ale producing company, the Clicquot Club, was founded by Henry Millis using funds from his father, Lansing Millis. This company eventually went bankrupt and was purchased by the Cott Company, which was in turn acquired by Canada Dry.
• The Hartford and Dedham Turnpike, known today as Massachusetts Route 109, was constructed in 1806 and officially accepted by the town of Millis in 1896.

The Tri-County Regional Chamber has been supporting businesses in the town of Millis since 1922.