July 15, 1902
The First New Ipswich Congregational Church Interior photo of the altar and pews. The Fire During the heavy thunder storm, Tuesday afternoon, the Congregational church was struck by lightning and entirely destroyed. The bell was rung to summon the fire companies until the bell-rope was burned off. The three fire companies quickly responded to the call, but the fire was under such head- way it was impossible to control it. Only a few things were removed from the lower part of the church-a piano, settees, etc. This is a great loss to the town. History tells us that work was commenced upon this meeting house early in 1812. The plan of the house was drawn by Seth Nason. Its dimensions were 92x69 feet. The raising of the frame was commenced on election day, and occupied three days under the direction of two skillful master workmen, Capt. Roffe of Ashby, and John Butman. The hands employed upon the frame were all picked men., No accident occurred. The house was compl...
