Historic Ipswich on the Massachusetts North Shore
The east side of this house was constructed in 1711 by Col. John Wainwright, and the west side was added at the end of the 18th Century, featuring fine Georgian paneling and Rumford fireplaces. The rear ell was constructed during that time frame, but has a massive fireplace, chimney and summer beam that may date to the late 17th Century.
The oldest part of the house may have been constructed for Deacon John Staniford and his wife Margaret. In the 20th Century this was the home of writer John Updike.
Francis Jordan arrived with the settlers of Ipswich in 1634 and died in 1678. His widow and daughter's family continued to live in the house. The "messuage or tenement that was formerly Francis Jordan's deceased" was sold to John Potter in 1708.
The house at 80 East St. was built by Jacob Perkins or his son Elisha between 1690 and 1720. The cellar joists are typical of a construction style found in the 17th Century.
In 1719, Perkins established an inn in his home "at the sign of the blue anchor," The house is the birthplace of famous Ipswich artist Arthur Wesley Dow. This house has a preservation agreement with Historic New England.
Ipswich Visitor Center 