On the Gold Light: Candlelit Tours of the Old Manse
The Old Manse transforms after dark. This winter, visit the Old Manse for a special candle-lit tour at twilight. Wander the halls and explore the chambers of the Old Manse guided by candlelight and the setting sun. Space is limited and advanced registration is recommended. Upon arrival, please check… Read More
CraneOutdoors: Castle Neck Hike in the Dunes
You may be familiar with Crane Beach, but have you ever visited the dune trails? The dunes of Castle Neck are a much less explored world unto themselves. They offer one of the most accessible dune landscapes in New England and trails that provide a firsthand look into the delicate… Read More
American Contradictions: Enslavement and the American Revolution at The Old Manse
Many who fought for liberty and independence from Great Britain also enslaved other people – a contradiction that is at the heart of the American Revolution. At the Old Manse, we see this contradiction embodied in the life of William Emerson, “Patriot Preacher” and slave holder. We also… Read More
Home to Two Revolutions: Tour of the Old Manse
Home to Two Revolutions – From the American Revolution of 1775 through the literary revolution of the mid-19th century, on this house tour we share the stories of Manse residents, both the famous and the lesser-known, who influenced and responded to the 19th century social, political and cultural changes that… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: The Cat's Meow
Our children’s tour, The Cat’s Meow, is designed for children age 3-8. Imagine living in 1929 and visiting the Crane family at their summer home in Ipswich. The house is so big and Mrs. Crane’s kitty, Ptolemy, has gone missing just before the party! Can you help a family… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Behind the Scenes in the Great House
Do you love checking out basements, kitchens, and other out of the way rooms? Our behind-the-scenes tour takes you past the beautiful facade and explores how the house ran when the Cranes were in residence. You’ll learn how a plumbing magnate incorporated the latest technology of the era into his… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Guest of the Cranes
It’s 1929 and you’ve just arrived after a long journey to see the Great House at Castle Hill and to visit your friends, the Crane family, of Crane plumbing fame. You are greeted at the door by household staff and your adventure as a “Guest of the Cranes” begins. A… Read More
CraneOutdoors: The Castle Hill Hike
Come explore the lesser-visited corners of Castle Hill and its surroundings with us. This hike is a CraneOutdoors guide favorite because it’s got a little bit of all the things that make the Crane Estate such a special place… A stroll along the spine of Castle Hill, starting at the… Read More
Flipping the Script: The Women of the Manse
Join us for a captivating tour where we flip the script and delve into the untold stories of the remarkable women who lived in The Old Manse! Rather than focusing solely on the famous men, we’ll shine a light on the inspiring voices and experiences of the women whose lives… Read More
Family-Friendly Tour of the Old Manse
Step into the incredible world of The Old Manse, a stunning 254-year-old house that witnessed the dawn of the American Revolutionary War and served as a sanctuary for renowned writers and artists! Join us for a special 30-minute tour designed just for families with young adventurers. Experience history like never… Read More
Home to Two Revolutions: Tour of the Old Manse
Home to Two Revolutions – From the American Revolution of 1775 through the literary revolution of the mid-19th century, on this house tour we share the stories of Manse residents, both the famous and the lesser-known, who influenced and responded to the 19th century social, political and cultural changes that… Read More
Tally Ho! Amelia Peabody Memorial Hunt
Enjoy the pageantry of the centuries-old tradition of the sport of fox hunting, by watching the Norfolk Hunt as it rides through Powisset Farm and Noanet Woodlands for the Amelia Peabody Memorial Foxhunt. The Norfolk Hunt Club, founded in 1895, is one of the oldest drag foxhunting clubs in the… Read More