“Ipswich Bluff”, across from Great Neck on Plum Island, was originally called Stage Island because of its early use as a convenient location for drying fish. During the second half of the 19th century, the hotel at Ipswich Bluff was a favorite destination for duck hunters and tourists who took the steamer Carlotta from the Ipswich wharf with Capt. Nat Burnham. The southern tip of Plum Island, where the Ipswich Bluffs Hotel once stood, is part of Sandy Point State Reservation.
Take a virtual boat ride with Dan Bates at Ipswich Bluff. Scroll the images below in any direction for a 360-degree view.
Historic Ipswich 
After nearly 40 years living in Haverhill, and walking on Plum Island often, my husband and I just discovered the Stage Island site yesterday afternoon on a gorgeous chilly November afternoon. Thanks so much for sharing the history! PS, my husband’s dad grew up in Ipswich in the early part of the 20th century after his family emigrated from Meteghan, NS. They lived on Pleasant Street; his grandfather was a carpenter. Best, Diana Comeau
I have a nice framed original
I have 2 painting by Burrill. One of my family home in Byfield and one of the snuff mill behind my previous home in Byfield. Now live in Ipswich. Would love more info on print.
Any idea where “Ipswich Bluff” is?
I added an interactive map