THE HISTORY OF IPSWICH
IS THE HISTORY OF IMMIGRANTS
From those who first arrived in the 1600s to the town’s newest residents in 2025, immigrants have played an important role in making Ipswich the open and welcoming community it is today.
On October 16, Ipswich Connects: Immigrants will explore the history of immigrants as well as their present-day experiences, with a focus on their contributions to the community over the centuries and how they continue to be a critical factor today in the town’s fabric. Speakers will include several people whose families emigrated to Ipswich more than 100 years ago.
​
​This free event is an opportunity for attendees to listen, learn, and discuss a topic that is on the minds of all Americans. Unless you have ancestors who are Native American, you come from a family that emigrated to the United States.
We are pleased that the event is co-sponsored by the Ipswich Museum, Ipswich Community Action, and the Ipswich Historical Commission.
We'd like to thank the Ipswich Connects: Immigrants Steering Committee for all their hard work: Mitch Feldman, Nance Guillmartin, Mark Hodgson, Mary Ann Mazzafarro, Ingrid Miles, David Russell, Kristen Seashore, John Shaw, Lakshmi Sirois, and Alec Style.
The Program
​
-
Introduction and Program Overview
The program begins at 7:00 PM with an introduction by John Shaw, Chairperson of Ipswich Connects:. He provides an overview and outlines the purpose of the event, emphasizing Ipswich’s longstanding connection to immigration and the positive impact immigrants have had on the community. This represents the first in a series of discussions that highlight Ipswich’s connection to current events.
-
Immigration as a Community Topic
Moderated by Mitch Feldman, the initial discussion explores why immigration is an important subject for Ipswich. The conversation highlights the historical contributions of immigrants and encourages panelists to reflect on their backgrounds and experiences establishing themselves in the community. The panel also addresses strategies to support and sustain the integration of immigrants, challenging misconceptions and underscoring the fact that immigrants enrich and sustain Ipswich.
-
History of Immigration to Ipswich
Gordon Harris, a local historian and publisher of the Historic Ipswich site, presents an overview of immigration to Ipswich. His presentation covers the period from the town’s initial settlement through the early nineteenth-century industrial era, illustrating the longstanding presence and impact of immigrant communities.
-
Personal Migration Stories
Sandy Lezon and Dorothy Levesque share their family histories, focusing on their ancestors’ journeys from Poland and Canada to Ipswich. They discuss the reasons for leaving their home countries, the challenges they encountered, their decision to settle in Ipswich, and the positive aspects of life in the town. Their stories also highlight the crucial role of community organizations in supporting the integration of newcomers.
-
Greek Migration History
Stephanie Gaskins, President of The Ipswich Museum, alongside co-presenters Connie James and Sandra Titcomb, talks about residents of Greece who relocated to Ipswich. They detail their journey to the United States, the reasons for choosing Ipswich, the obstacles they faced, the benefits of living in the area, and the organizations that foster community building for immigrants.
-
Personal Experience of Settling in Ipswich
Umesh Bhuju, a former guide to Mt. Everest in Nepal, shares his personal experience of settling in Ipswich. He describes his journey from Nepal, the factors influencing his choice to move to Ipswich, the challenges he faced, and the positive aspects of living in the community. Umesh emphasizes the support he received from local organizations, which helped him establish himself as an entrepreneur and community leader.
-
Immigrant Contributions to Agriculture
Miranda Russell, co-owner and manager of Russell Orchards, discusses the vital role immigrants have played in the success of the family’s 120-acre fruit farm. She describes her and her husband Doug’s journey into farm ownership, the history of the orchard, and how immigrant labor has contributed to the growth and sustainability of their business.
-
Current Legal Context and Community Involvement
Doug Smith, Esq., Legal and Educational Programs Director at the Right to Immigration Institute, provides insights into the current legal environment for immigrants. He discusses the support offered by his organization, which trains students and community leaders to become Department of Justice Accredited Immigration Representatives, and highlights relevant programs and research on immigrant labor, refugee rights, and social movements.
-
Service Organizations and Opportunities for Engagement
The panel features representatives from several local service organizations, including House of Peace and Ipswich Refugee Program, and Action, Inc. These organizations offer resources and opportunities for immigrants to engage with the community and receive support.
-
Audience Discussion and Conclusion
The event closes with an audience discussion focused on actionable steps to support recent immigrants as they strive to thrive in Ipswich. The conversation encourages community members to reflect on their roles in fostering inclusion, connection, and mutual success.