The Devil’s Footprint

Folklore, history, and community in Ipswich, Massachusetts

For generations, people in Ipswich have told stories about a strange mark in the granite beside First Church in Ipswich, UCC.

According to local legend, the mark was left by the Devil during a confrontation connected to the preaching of George Whitefield in 1740. The details change depending on who tells the story. The rock does not.

The Devil’s Footprint Project brings together the folklore, documented history, and community traditions surrounding the legend. Through public events, storytelling, historical research, music, art, and conversation, we explore how one small mark in stone became part of Ipswich history.

The rock is still there.
The story is still told.

Ipswich, Massachusetts

Devil's Footprint Project

The Devil's Footprint Project brings Ipswich folklore, history, and community storytelling to life through music, historical reenactments, art, and creative exploration. Centered around a mysterious mark in the rock on Meetinghouse Green, the annual event invites residents and visitors to discover how one local legend has connected generations of storytellers.

2025: The Beginning

On September 28, 2025, the inaugural event brought together local historians, clergy, artists, and community members to explore the legend through live music, a folklore panel discussion, a historical reenactment of George Whitefield's visit, and a dramatic interpretation of his legendary battle with the Devil.

Explore the 2025 Event

2026: Revolution

On October 4, 2026, the event returned with the theme of Revolution. The program expanded to include an open read featuring local lore, creative writing, and community discussion; live music; a historical sermon reenactment inspired by Whitefield's preaching in 1740; and an interactive puppet show inviting young people to become the next generation of storytellers.

Explore the 2026 Event

2027: The Story Continues

The third annual Devil's Footprint Folklore Event is planned for Sunday, October 3, 2027, at First Church in Ipswich, UCC, and on Meetinghouse Green. Planning is underway, and additional details will be announced as they become available.

Follow Our Plans for 2027

The rock is still there. The story is still told.

The story people kept telling

The Folklore

Legend says that on Tuesday, September 30, 1740, the Devil was hiding inside the North Congregational Church. Young George Whitefield preached with such fire that the Devil burst out. They battled up the steeple. Whitefield cast him down. The Devil fled, leaving a single scorched hoofprint in the stone.