Visiting Historical Ipswich, MA

Last weekend my wife and I visited the historic town of Ipswich, MA which was founded in 1633.  Today, Ipswich is well known for its early 17th century homes; fifty-eight houses in town were built prior to 1725 – the largest number still standing and occupied of any community in the country.  Those houses , built from 1625 to 1725 are considered to be first period houses. This link will take you to a listing of 61 historical houses from that approximate time period , with pictures and descriptions.  The website also explains,

"First Period houses have steeply pitched roofs, are asymmetrical due to having been built in phases, and feature large central chimneys. Exposed chamfered summer beams are almost always found, especially in the front rooms. First Period builders were often trained in English Medieval techniques. The fronts of these houses often faced south to maximize heat from the sun’s rays, which explains why so many First Period homes line the north side of High Street in Ipswich." 

 Here are a few of the houses we saw.

 

This is the end view of an obviously big house.

This was at least a two family dwelling.

Notice the unique lean-to type of addition in the back.

I had never noticed this type of lean-to addition before.

Another typical street view.

 

 

This fence was duplicated from one seen in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia.  Notice the crushed shells used as pathways in the front garden area.

Of course there were other reasons we liked Ipswich.  We had a great seafood dinner at the Clam Box and would recommend it.  You might want to consider sharing one of their meals...they are big.

We were very pleased with our stay at the Ipswich Inn Bed and Breakfast.  They honored our gift certificate which was eight years old!!

 

A beautiful blooming backyard.

Overlooking the ocean at the end of the Grand Alee of the Crane Mansion.

This is the Grand Alee (like a huge lawn) from the house to the ocean.

We even hiked down to briefly visit the famous Crane Beach.

One of the murals on a public building downtown.

We had fun "posing" with the people in the murals.

Since we like history and old houses, we really enjoyed Ipswich.  We only got to sample a couple of their restaurants and after going home and doing more research, I found others I want to try on a return trip.  The Crane Mansion and grounds are magnificent but it was too early in the season to tour the mansion.  We will definitely be going back.