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History of Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Journey back in time to Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Ipswich, Suffolk, England.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Ipswich
Ipswich is the county town of Suffolk, England, located on the estuary of the River Orwell, about 60 miles (97 km) north east of London. The town has been continuously occupied since the Saxon period, and its port has been one of England's most important for the whole of its history...
The modern name is derived from the medieval name Gippeswic, probably taken either from an Old Saxon personal name or from an earlier name of the Orwell estuary (although unrelated to the name of the River Gipping). It has also been known as Gyppewicus and Yppswyche.
Ipswich is one of England's oldest towns, if not the oldest. The claim has also been made of the Essex town of Colchester, but that town was abandoned for some time, leaving Ipswich to claim to be the oldest continuously inhabited town in England. A large Roman fort, part of the coastal defences of Britain, stood at Walton near Felixstowe (13 miles, 21 km), and the largest Roman villa in Suffolk (possibly an administrative complex) stood at Castle Hill (north-west Ipswich)...
The modern name is derived from the medieval name Gippeswic, probably taken either from an Old Saxon personal name or from an earlier name of the Orwell estuary (although unrelated to the name of the River Gipping). It has also been known as Gyppewicus and Yppswyche.
Ipswich is one of England's oldest towns, if not the oldest. The claim has also been made of the Essex town of Colchester, but that town was abandoned for some time, leaving Ipswich to claim to be the oldest continuously inhabited town in England. A large Roman fort, part of the coastal defences of Britain, stood at Walton near Felixstowe (13 miles, 21 km), and the largest Roman villa in Suffolk (possibly an administrative complex) stood at Castle Hill (north-west Ipswich)...
Sourcekids.kiddle.co
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VINTAGE IPSWICH
Ipswich Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Postcard
Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Postcard
Ye Olde Neptune Inn
Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Postcard
Tavern Street
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to IPSWICH
ENGLAND in My Roots: Ancestral Heritage Mug
"My ancestors came from England. That explains a lot about my love for cricket, afternoon tea, and the royal family!"
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Ipswich: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Ipswich through the years.
By the early 16th century, Ipswich had been made a King's Port and the shipbuilding industry was well established.
Many explorers started out on their adventures from the port. Later, it also became a major centre for departing emigrants. One of them, Nathaniel Ward, went on to found Ipswich, Massachusetts.
1611 - 1634 - Many inhabitants left Ipswich during this period to emigrate to New England.
1644 - A woman called Widow Lackland was executed in Ipswich on the orders of Witchfinder General Matthew Hopkins.
1700s - Important industries in Ipswich included shipbuilding, leather, malting and brewing.
1720 - Ipswich's first newspaper was launched.
1736 - The first theatre in Ipswich was opened.
1800 - The population of Ipswich was around 11,000.
1818 - Gas lighting was introduced in Ipswich.
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1835 - Holy Trinity Church was built.
1846 - The railway arrived in Ipswich with the opening of a station by the Eastern Union Railway.
1880s - A network of sewers was dug in Ipswich.
1895 - Ipswich
Ips'wich, a town of England, capital of the co, of Suffolk, on the Orwell, here crossed by a handsome iron bridge, at the influx of the Gipping, at a railway junction,66 miles N.E. of London, and 24 miles S.E. of Bury St. Edmunds. The town stands on a slope, sheltered by hills on the R. and N. It is irregularly built, with streets mostly narrow and houses old-fashioned, though it contains many new and substantial buildings; it is well supplied with water. Principal edifices, the town and county halls, custom-house on the quay, market-house, corn exchange, county and borough jails, an old monastery of Black Friars, the theatre, assembly-rooms; bly-rooms, and barracks. Besides the grammar-school (which was restored by Cardinal Wolsey, and has a noble building constructed since 1851), Ipswich possesses several minor endowed schools and charities, a £ society and mechanics' institution, and a workingmen's college. It has some manufactures of woollen cloths and of yarn, with iron- and...
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Here are some of the top attractions and activities in the Ipswich area:
1. Christchurch Mansion:
Start your visit with a trip to Christchurch Mansion. This Tudor mansion, located in the heart of Ipswich, houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. It's a great place to learn about the town's history and culture.
2. Ipswich Waterfront:
Stroll along the picturesque Ipswich Waterfront, which is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. You can enjoy a meal with a view of the marina, or simply take a leisurely walk and soak in the atmosphere.
3. Ipswich Museum:
If you're interested in natural history and archaeology, don't miss the Ipswich Museum. It features exhibits on everything from ancient Egypt to local wildlife, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
4. The New Wolsey Theatre:
Catch a show at The New Wolsey Theatre, which hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary dramas and musicals. Check their schedule for the latest performances.
5. Holywells Park:
Enjoy some...
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Start your visit with a trip to Christchurch Mansion. This Tudor mansion, located in the heart of Ipswich, houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. It's a great place to learn about the town's history and culture.
2. Ipswich Waterfront:
Stroll along the picturesque Ipswich Waterfront, which is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. You can enjoy a meal with a view of the marina, or simply take a leisurely walk and soak in the atmosphere.
3. Ipswich Museum:
If you're interested in natural history and archaeology, don't miss the Ipswich Museum. It features exhibits on everything from ancient Egypt to local wildlife, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
4. The New Wolsey Theatre:
Catch a show at The New Wolsey Theatre, which hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary dramas and musicals. Check their schedule for the latest performances.
5. Holywells Park:
Enjoy some...
GENEALOGY IN IPSWICH
Discover YOUR Roots: Ipswich Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Ipswich, Suffolk, England
We currently have information about 31 ancestors who were born or died in Ipswich.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Ipswich, Suffolk, England
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Updated: 9/14/2023 3:59:10 PM
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