The Boston Optical Works was established in 1867 by Robert B. Tolles, Charles Stodder, and some other businessmen, with Tolles as superintendent. Four years later, the partnership was dissolved and Tolles continued as sole proprietor. After Tolles's death in 1883, the business continued under the direction of Charles X. Dalton. An advertisement for the Boston Optical Works survives from as late as 1895.