A division of the Huntington Historical Society, the David Conklin Farmhouse is a living history museum designed to exhibit three distinct American time periods: Colonial, Federal and Victorian. The museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about American history from the birth of the nation through the Civil War through the use of exhibits and authentic artifacts, inlucing a chair used by George Washington himself. Guided group tours are available, and donations are suggested. For more information, please contact the David Conklin Farmhouse Museum at the provided telephone number or visit its Web site.
As a small-town museum, the Ipswich Museum provides a fascinating look into the history of a beautiful, old coastal Massachusetts town. Artifacts and architecture from the town's founding years and art and photography from the past 350 years are on display throughout two properties — the 1677 Whipple House and the 1800 Heard House.
Best and worst time to go to the Ipswich Museum
The museum is open all day Thursday–Saturday, and on Sunday afternoons. Because of the museum's size and location, you will rarely find it too busy for enjoyment, but you should plan your visit to Ipswich for June, July or September, when you can enjoy many of Ipswich's outdoor charms as well, including Crane Beach. In addition, the museum puts on special exhibits during the summer months, often showcasing local contemporary artists.
Must see/do at the Ipswich Museum
Ipswich contains more First Period (circa 1625-1725) houses than any other community in the U.S., and the superior preservation shows off that particular architecture to good effect. The arrangement of original and historical furniture and the accompanying tour offer an interesting look into colonial life in Ipswich. In the Heard House, make sure to check out the exhibit on Ipswich's fascinating history of trade with China.
Admission to the Ipswich Museum
You can choose either to see the museum in its entirety, including the Heard House, the Whipple House and outbuildings, or you can choose one house. The first option will cost $7-20, and the second will cost $5-15.
Parking and public transportation to the Ipswich Museum
There is a parking lot at the main entrance at the Heard House, as well as a public public parking lot around the corner on South Main Street. If you are staying outside of Ipswich, the Newburyport/Rockport line of the MBTA commuter rail from North Station in Boston services the Ipswich train station, which is half a mile from the Ipswich Museum.
Food at the Ipswich Museum
There is no cafe within the museum itself, but downtown Ipswich is only a 5-minute walk away, with several food options readily available. After your tour, go for coffee or ice cream at Zumi's or a sandwich at the Five Corners Deli.
Insider tip for visitors to the Ipswich Museum
The Ipswich Visitor Center is located in the historic Hall Haskell House just down the road from the Ipswich Museum. If you haven't gotten your fill of history after visiting the museum, stop by the Visitor Center for a wealth of information on other sites in Ipswich, including walking tours of the historic downtown and its many First Period homes.
Author's bio: Julia O'Connor is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer transplanted from Boston to Denver. She is thriving on the transition and has enjoyed the exploration of both cities and everything in between.
Gunston Hall Plantation was the home and plantation of George Mason IV. Since being built in 1759, very few changes have been made to the mansion. The original mansion and school house are still located on the property, along with rebuilt slave quarters and a visitors' center. The grounds overlook the Potomac River and a gift shop is available. Gunston Hall Plantation is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm daily.
