Castle Hill’s Roaring Twenties Lawn Party Brings the Gilded Age Back to Life
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts, is a sight to behold. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the grand mansion stands as one of New England’s finest surviving examples of Gilded Age architecture and a reminder of a time when America’s millionaires lived with a level of extravagance that today’s billionaires would appreciate.
A tour of the Crane Estate offers fascinating insight into the family that built this magnificent home. The Crane family amassed its fortune manufacturing luxury plumbing fixtures and bathroom accessories, many of which are proudly displayed throughout the mansion. At a time when indoor plumbing was still considered a luxury, the estate featured bathrooms that were as elegant as they were practical. Influenced by European design, many included enclosed shower stalls, separate water closets, large bathtubs, and, perhaps most impressively for the era, heated running water.
One of the home’s most ingenious features can be found in several of the bedrooms. Mounted on the wall is a beautifully crafted indicator showing both wind direction and wind speed. Lights illuminated the display so the family could determine whether conditions were favorable for sailing before ever getting out of bed. One bedroom even embraced a nautical theme, with a ceiling painted to resemble a bright blue sky and deep blue walls evoking the surrounding sea.
Every room reflects the Cranes’ appreciation for European elegance. Lavish furnishings, soaring ceilings, intricate architectural details, and priceless artwork combine to create an atmosphere of refined luxury without feeling overly museum-like. It’s easy to imagine the estate bustling with wealthy guests during lavish summer parties a century ago.
Stepping outside reveals that the mansion is only part of the attraction. The estate stretches across acres of beautifully landscaped grounds featuring sweeping lawns, walking paths, and formal gardens. During hot summer days, visitors can cool off inside the Casino building, which serves as an air-conditioned respite from the sun.
Nearby lies the recently restored Rose Garden which is a bit of a misnomer these days. While roses once dominated the landscape, the garden now showcases a vibrant variety of flowering plants that provide color throughout the growing season. Just beyond it, the elegant Italian Garden features classical columns, and an expansive lawn that seem tailor-made for afternoon strolls.
For the past twelve years, Castle Hill has transformed these spectacular grounds into one of New England’s most charming summer traditions: the Roaring Twenties Lawn Party.
Guests embrace the spirit of the Jazz Age by arriving dressed to the nines. Bow ties, suspenders, fedoras, flapper dresses, pearls, and feathered headbands are everywhere you look. Whether you’re already an expert Charleston dancer or simply curious about the era, instructors offer dance lessons before inviting everyone onto the floor for lively dance contests beneath the main tent.
Much of the fun comes from the guests themselves. Families and groups of friends spread blankets and erect elegant pop-up tents across the rolling lawn, creating elaborate picnic camps complete with charcuterie boards, cocktails, and vintage décor. For an afternoon, it’s easy to imagine you’ve been invited to one of the Crane family’s glamorous summer parties during the height of the Roaring Twenties.
Of course, no lawn party would be complete without refreshments.
Several local beverage makers were on hand, including True North Ale Company, Mill River Winery, and 1634 Meadery. One standout on a sweltering summer afternoon was the mead slushie from 1634 Meadery which was a refreshing blend of mead and lemonade that proved to be one of the day’s most popular treats.
Families found plenty to enjoy as well. Near the Casino, children created beaded necklaces and crafts inspired by 1920s fashion, while adults could visit a tarot card reader for a glimpse into the future. Oversized lawn games, including a giant chess set, encouraged visitors to slow down and enjoy the relaxed pace of the afternoon.
If all that dancing worked up an appetite, a collection of food trucks stood ready to help. Metzys served creative tacos and street food favorites, while The Lobster Roller dished out fresh New England seafood, including the region’s iconic lobster roll. To cap off the meal, DownRiver Ice Cream offered frozen treats that were especially welcome under the summer sun.
Throughout the day, live jazz floated across the estate as bands including Bay Soda and Annie and the Fur Trappers performed classics from the Jazz Age. Their energetic performances became the soundtrack to the afternoon, transporting visitors back to the 1920s.
Automobile enthusiasts also had plenty to admire. Beautifully restored automobiles from the 1920s stood upon the grounds, offering a glimpse into transportation during the era. One fascinating tidbit shared by their owners: early forms of cruise control existed nearly a century ago. Vintage slot machines displayed in the truck bed of one of the automobiles added another nostalgic touch, creating a miniature museum celebrating the technology and entertainment of the Roaring Twenties.
No festival is complete without shopping, and the Lawn Party delivered. Vendors filled the grounds with antiques, books, handcrafted jewelry, vintage clothing, and enough bow ties and suspenders to outfit anyone who forgot to dress for the occasion. Whether you were searching for a unique souvenir or the finishing touch for your Gatsby-inspired ensemble, there was plenty to browse.
Even without a special event, Castle Hill is one of Massachusetts’ most beautiful historic estates and well worth a visit. The Roaring Twenties Lawn Party simply provides the perfect excuse to experience it in an entirely different way. Pair the festival with a guided mansion tour, and you’ll easily spend three or four enjoyable hours immersed in history, music, architecture, and timeless summer charm.
For more information about Castle Hill, upcoming events, and mansion tours, visit TheTrustees.org.