1647 – Historic Ipswich

Mark Quilter, Upon Complaint Against Him for Striking Rebeckah Shatswell

March 7, 2023December 25, 2024 Gordon HarrisLeave a comment

Mark Quilter and Rebekkah Shatswell arguing over a porridge

Mark Quilter was a cow-keeper on the north side of town with a reputation for drinking. When Goodwife Shatswell visited Goodwife Quilter and insulted both of them, Quilter lost his temper.

Nathaniel Ward (1578-1652)

January 29, 2023March 23, 2023 Gordon HarrisLeave a comment

The Simple Cobbler of Aggawam in America by Nathaniel Ward

Ward emigrated to Massachusetts in 1634 an served for two years as the minister in Ipswich. His "Body of Liberties" established a code of fundamental principles of government. Ward's book "The Simple Cobler of Aggawam in America" was published in England in 1647.