National Register of Historic Places

A listing on the National Register (NR) “provides formal recognition of a property’s historical, architectural, or archeological significance, based on national standards.”  With such designation, a property owner is entitled to receive preservation incentives, including grants for planning and rehabilitation, tax credits, preservation easements, and fire and safety code alternatives, and possible State tax benefits and grant opportunities.  A listing on the NR does not place any obligation on private property owners nor require public access.  Finally, a listing on the NR “does not automatically invoke local historic district zoning or local landmark status.”

There are six National Register Historic Districts in Ipswich. They are as follows:

Ø      Brown Stocking Mill

Ø      East End

Ø      High Street

Ø      Ipswich Mills

Ø      Meetinghouse Green

Ø      South Green

Numerous structures are also listed on the National Register. Click here for the list.

Covenated Historic Houses

The Town of Ipswich has a rich inventory of historically significant homes, with 59 houses built before 1720 (first period homes), 57 houses built between 1720 and 1750 (second period homes), and 54 houses built between 1790 and 1832 (third period homes).  Of these houses, 34 owners have entered into recorded, permanent Preservation Agreements and are known as “Covenanted Houses.”  The Preservation Agreements help protect specific, significant architectural elements. Please click here for a list of the "Covenanted Houses." .