Ipswich Museum - Ipswich, Massachusetts

Todd

If you are a fan of quaint small historical town museums….this is a gem. Bob, one of the volunteers working the entrance, is a a local treasure to speak with.

If you are up in The Swich on a weekend afternoon and get rained off the beach….visit this fantastic little museum….and support the magnificent history of this town.

Ipswich is far more than beaches. Do yourself a favor and explore the history. Fun fact, Ipswich was a town 150 years before America was a nation & almost 250 years before Texas was even heard of.

Michael T.

Scott’s the man (great tour guide!) I was given an information rich tour of the 2 buildings across the street. My experience could not have been better and, as a newer north shore resident, I loved learning so much about the incredible historical events that took place in Ipswich.

Ps. It took a 20 min scavenger hunt and an ask a friend at the Ipswitch library, but I found the devils footprint!!

Tom R.

Was here a week ago and it's truly a must see. Staff was very knowledgeable and helpful. Includes the earliest, best preserved home in America from c.1677, the Whipple House. Well done!

Lucifer M.

Not going to lie this was really cool. The guides are really knowledgeable and friendly. Make sure you say hi to bob while you’re there.

Brenda M.

Very friendly. Very informative. Interesting. Be sure to check by phone to see whether they're open in the winter.

Patricia P.

I came to Ipswich because, like many others, I could trace my roots to the early settlers. I stumbled into this museum hoping for a glimpse of what my ancestors experienced. I got far more than that! The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and so eager to share. They explained things in a way that was easy to follow and understand and were open to answering all the questions I had. They were welcoming and kind and so helpful. They even helped me pinpoint where my ancestors lived and gave me directions to find them. I took the tour of the homes and it was a profound experience to feel that close to my past. I would highly recommend the museum and tour for anyone remotely interested in learning more about the history of Ipswich. If Bob is there, ask him about the architecture and Bill can tell you about their lifestyles. It truly is fascinating.

Kevin R.

This is a really good museum. Not just an old dusty local-yocal spot, the Heard House is well curated, clean and has a lot to say.

Ipswich, surprisingly enough, has a history that teaches many lessons. E.g., its Chinese exhibits are spectacular in their specificity... Did you know that the first motorized vessel in Asia had its origins in Ipswich? This just one of many cool stories told and shown here. And, there is much more... many of which rhyme with the issues we face today.

The museum is spread out over three houses. My time was limited, so I was only able to visit the Heard House.

Mhairi R.

Really knowledgeable and friendly guided tour of all 3 buildings from early settlers to established residence. Well worth a visit