Townsend's rich history dates back to the seventeen hundreds; having been incorporated in 1732. The first mill of the town was built in 1733 in "Townsend Harbor".  The pond at Townsend Harbor came into existence in 1734 when the dam was built for the mill.  The Conant House, Grist Mill and Cooperage are places that can be visited today in the Harbor.  The Boston and Keene, New Hampshire stagecoaches began to run in 1806, and passengers dined at the Joslinville Tavern which is now 519 Main Street.  

Townsend is a member of the Middlesex Regional School District, and students from K-12 attends schools in the town.  Many town and school sponsored activities are held at the High School and Hawthorne Brook Middle School facilities.  

The Town Common is host to Fall Fairs and art shows as well as summer band concerts and Squannacook River provide opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming.  Willard Brook State Park, which offers picnicking and swimming and Townsend State Forest both have excellent trails for hiking and cross country skiing.