One of the oldest communities in the Commonwealth, Ipswich was incorporated in 1634. Famous for the exceptionally large number of early 17th century homes still in use today, and for the beautiful Crane Beach, Ipswich encompasses seven hills, and is bisected by the Ipswich River. This enchanting town, located just 30 miles from Boston, meets the ocean in a panoply of tidal marshes, dunes and beaches.

Well known for its shellfish and the famous Ipswich clam, the town also boasts several large farms in addition to the local businesses and industry. Of the many year-round events which take place in Ipswich, two favorites are the Olde Ipswich Days in June, and the sandcastle contest at Crane Beach which takes place in August. The Choate Bridge in the center of town is said to be one of the oldest stone bridges in the United States, and Ipswich is considered to have been the first lace-making town in the country.

The Whipple House, one of the oldest buildings still standing in New England, dates from 1638-40 (a later half dates from 1670). Owned and maintained by the Ipswich Historical Society, it is an extraordinary example of period architecture. The Garden Club helps to maintain the authentic 17th century style gardens which surround the house.

Ipswich is fortunate to be the site of two extraordinary reservations which are owned and operated by the Trustees of the Reservation: the Richard T. Crane Jr. Memorial Reservation, 1400 acres which include Crane Beach and the glorious Castle Hill, and The Cornelius and Mine S. Crane Wildlife Refuge encompassing 680 acres of island and tidal marsh lands at the mouth of the Essex River.

The Ipswich Country Club, located on Route 1 just south of Rowley, remains one of the more exceptional residential developments in Ipswich's recent history. Begun in the 1980's the community contains both "attached" and "detached" residences, all beautifully situated in a park-like setting overlooking the prestigious 18-hole course. The town also boasts a wide variety of homes, new as well as antique, and a number of converted cottages on the Great Neck peninsula.

Ipswich maintains its own school system, and is accessible to Boston by commuter rail.

Spotlight on Ipswich

Population: 13,388

Square Miles: 33

Tax rate fiscal 2008: $9.23

Government: Town Meeting: Board of Selectmen

How to contact:

Selectmen: Chair, James Foley 978-356-0180

Town Hall: 978-356-6600

Website: www.town.ipswich.ma.us

Hospital/Emergency: Merrimack Valley Hospital , Haverhill 978-374-2000

Schools:

School Department: 978-356-2935

Ipswich Middle School

Ipswich High School

Paul F. Doyon Memorial

Winthrop

MBTA Commuter Rail Service to Boston with station in Ipswich

Schedules and Information: (800) 392-6100 or www.mbta.com