Discover Ipswich Massachusetts
A coastal town in Essex County, Ipswich is recognized for its stone arch bridges, including America's oldest double stone arch bridge, The Choate, and for having more "First Period" houses (1620-1720) than any other town in the nation.
Founded on land originally inhabited by Native American tribes who called the area Agawam, Ipswich is on the Ipswich River that drains into Ipswich Bay, which has access to the Atlantic Ocean. Early residents were farmers, fishermen, shipbuilders, and traders but by the 19th century, Ipswich had a thriving textile industry.
About 29 miles from Boston via Route I-93, I-95, and Route 1, residents also have access to public transportation. An MBTA commuter rail station is in downtown Ipswich.
The History
The Town of Ipswich was founded on land originally inhabited by Indian tribes who called the area Agawam.
Early residents were farmers, fishermen, shipbuilders, and traders. Lace making developed as a home industry, as did the making of stockings. Smuggled from England, the first stocking machine arrived in 1822. Small and fitfully successful textile industries came and went until 1868 when Amos A. Lawrence started Ipswich Hosiery Mills in the old stone mill on the Ipswich River and by the turn-of-the-century was the largest mill in the country.
Despite sharing some of the wealth that came to deeper water ports of nearby Newburyport and Salem, Ipswich remained a small country town through the 19th and early 20th centuries. Perhaps that is why Ipswich has more First Period houses than any town in America.
The growth and development of Ipswich as a larger town—it was never considered a suburb—came only after 1945 with the great outward population explosion from Boston.
Easily accessible by commuter rail with service from Boston and Salem, Ipswich is a popular destination for both potential residents, visitors and tourists.
Have Fun in Ipswich
Ipswich has a long-standing and vibrant recreational history that includes numerous activities. One of the first North Shore golf courses (private and small) was installed at Appleton Farm in the early part of the 20thCentury. Today public and private courses abound including the Golf Club at Turner Hill, which ranks among the top courses in the country.
Ipswich also has a thriving equestrian community that dates to at least 1882 with the institution of fox hunts at nearby Myopia Hunt and Polo Club. The annual hunt and yearly polo matches attract area, national and international riders and guests. The area offers numerous riding trails, stables, and riding academies.
With 4 miles of white, sandy shoreline highlighted by an annual sand castle competition each summer. Crane's Beach, however, remains the most popular destination. Additional water recreational activities are available on and along the Ipswich River.
Two nearby state parks, Sandy Point State Reservation and Willowdale State Forest, offer countless recreational activities including hiking, bird-watching and fishing.
Ipswich is also famous for clams with dozens of restaurants featuring Ipswich clams and other local seafood.
Ipswich Real Estate
Ipswich offers an array of real estate opportunities within a charming coastal community. From historic colonial homes nestled in quaint neighborhoods to waterfront properties along the Ipswich River or Crane Beach, Ipswich has a variety of housing options to suit different preferences. With its rich history, picturesque landscapes and access to outdoor activities such as hiking, boating and beachcombing, Ipswich provides an ideal setting for those seeking a quintessential New England lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the town's vibrant downtown scene, its cultural attractions or its natural beauty, Ipswich offers a welcoming backdrop for homeowners looking to embrace coastal living on the North Shore.
*Specifications are subject to change
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