Tavern House

CERTIFIED HISTORIC
Offered for $1,295,000
Contact:
Syndi Zaiger
Compass
syndi.zaiger@compass.com
P: 508.843.0300
or
Jill Fucillo
Compass
jill.fucillo@compass.com
P: 978.828.8828

8 North Main Street
Ipswich, MA 01938

ESTABLISHED IN 1671 AS AN "ORDINARY" (TAVERN), THIS RESTORED HOME AT 8 NORTH MAIN STREET, IPSWICH, MA COMBINES HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE WITH MODERN COMFORT.

In the 1600s, taverns on the main roads out of Boston were referred to as “ordinaries,” offering rest, hospitality, and whatever was cooking over the hearth that day. One such ordinary was Sparks’ Tavern, owned and operated by John and Mary Sparks. Overlooking the Meetinghouse Green in the Town of Ipswich, the popular establishment served wine and “strong water” to locals and travelers alike. Pragmatically, it also served as a “Publik house” where legal proceedings were held until the town courthouse was built in the 18th Century. An old sign found at the site proclaims:

1671 Ye Sparks Ordinary 1691. Built in 1640 by Wm. Fuller, gunsmith of the Pequod Expedition. The Witch Trials of Old Ipswich were held here. Also, the First Courts of Ipswich, Maj. Gen. Dennison, Maj. Wm. Hawthorne & Symon Bradstreet as Judges. During the Indian Wars, Colonial Troops were quartered here.

Stopping at Sparks’ Tavern, situated on the path from the mill and the marketplaces along the river to the meetinghouse up the hill, was a part of everyday life in pre-Revolutionary Ipswich. It was also the site of significant historical events like the conclusion of the witchcraft trials and the 1687 vote against taxation without representation, for which Ipswich has been called the "Birthplace of American Independence.” Town records indicate that John and Mary Sparks bought the property in 1671. Three centuries later, noted local architect Matt Cummings restored and extended the home along with the carriage house. And now, 8 North Main Street is for sale, distinguished by its unique blend of antique and modern features.

First-period buildings are famous for their handsome posts and beams, but their ceilings are typically low. In contrast, because this one was originally built for commercial use, it boasts a living room and two bedrooms in which the posts and beams are accentuated by eight-foot high ceilings. These original rooms adjoin a newly constructed addition that completes the layout with a modern kitchen, dining room, family room, and spacious master suite. These old and new spaces share central air conditioning, two gas fireplaces, an on-demand water heater, chef’s kitchen, luxurious master suite, and other modern amenities.

Ideally located today as it was centuries ago, this home is across the street from a public park and garden, the town library, a popular bakery, shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, the elementary school, and the commuter train to Boston. The region is known not only for its history and architecture, but for its quaint coastal towns, world-class beaches, and hiking, kayaking, and canoeing through spectacular conservation areas.

No longer just an “ordinary,” this extra-ordinary home uniquely combines modern amenities with first-period charm. Sparks’ Tavern will lift your spirits!