The original settlers of Reading came from England in the 1630s. In 1639, residents of Lynn, MA petitioned for a "place for inland plantation" and were granted 10 miles of land. The original land was called Lynn Village located on the south shore of Lake Quannapowitt. It was later incorporated as the Town of Reading in 1644, named after the town of Reading in England.

During the American Revolution, Reading played an active role in the war. According to the town's official website,

"Minute Men were prominently involved in the engagements pursuing the retreating British Red Coats after the skirmish at Concord Bridge. Dr. John Brooks, Captain of the "Fourth Company of Minute" remained in the army for eight years of distinguished service, including White Plains and Valley Forge. He later became the ninth governor of Massachusetts. Only one Reading soldier was killed in action during the Revolution."

During the Civil War, Reading had a total of 411 from the town fight in the war. 15 of those died in action and another 33 died from wounds and sickness. Following the Civil War, Reading became a predominately residential community and industrial expansion began.