Swett-Ilsley House

In 1911, the Swett-Ilsley House became the first property acquired by Historic New England, just a year after its founding. The original portion, built in 1670 by Stephen Swett, was one room deep. Over the centuries, the building served as a tavern, chocolate shop, chandlery, and press room, in part due to its location on Newbury’s most traveled road. It has one of the largest fireplaces in New England, more than ten feet wide, and containing three beehive ovens. Visit nearby Coffin House and Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm