Who knew this sleepy, quiet little town along the Ipswich River, now famous for its clams, was such a hotbed for sinister activity in the 17th and 18th centuries? A peaceful park exists here today, filled with lush, green grass surrounded by quaint, historical buildings. And the First Church in Ipswich is at the center of it all. This now-dovish park area, known as the Meetinghouse Green, once held many accused witches in the old jail during the famous witch trails back in the 17th century. Also, this location hosted the last witch trial to take place in North America in 1878. Not to mention it played host to some of the early protests against “taxation without representation” long before the American Revolution! But, most notably, it was the site of a supposed legendary battle between a charismatic reverend and, you guessed it, the Devil himself!
The Man, The Myth, The Reverend: George Whitefield
Known as one of the founders of Methodism and the evangelical movement, Reverend George Whitefield was a roaming preacher and evangelist, adventuring all over the country. Due to his reputation for controversial argument and his love for debate with other clergy, he often commanded audiences in the tens of thousands! Of note, it is believed he reached an audience of around 10 million listeners (including the likes of Benjamin Franklin!) in his day, no doubt aided by his flair for drama, patriotism and religious rhetoric.
The Good Reverend Got the Devil’s Attention!
The year was 1740. And it was the good Reverend’s second trip to the First Church in Ipswich. Thousands descended on the small church, forcing the Reverend to take his sermon outside onto the green. Being so passionate and intense about his message, it’s said the Reverend could be heard echoing throughout the entire town! Moreover, it’s believed the Devil would often watch these Sunday scenes, hidden by a mirror. And on this particular day, the Reverend’s condemning words were more than ol’ Beelzebub could take!
First Church in Ipswich 
Pic from George Whitefield: a biography, 1857, by Belcher, Joseph
A Legendary Scuffle Ensues!
The Devil emerged and confronted the Reverend because he had heard enough! By most accounts, they go at each other, fighting like wild berserkers! The feisty Reverend chased that ol’ Devil into the church, up the tower and out onto the steeple! And with a thunderous yell and defiant push, he sent the Devil hurtling to the ground with such force that one of his hooves left the impression in the granite that can still be seen today! Then the Devil bounded off, never to be seen again!
The Devil’s Footprint Endures
Even today, the notch in the granite is well defined and is easily found. Additionally, a green painted mark encircles the footprint. Are you curious enough to dare stand where the Devil stood all those years ago?!
The Devil’s Footprint 
I stood by the Devil’s Footprint!
To learn more about the author, Hannah, click here.
Very educational!! So curio! Our students will love this.