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Ipswich Half Moon & Star
Ipswich Half Moon & Star
also traded as Half Moon, Half Moon & Stars
South West, 52.06028,1.14626
closed 1985
70-72 St Matthew's St
grid reference TM 157 448
The pub is shown on this OS town plan from about 1880 (larger map).
A grade 2 listed building, that is now is owned by the Ipswich Building Preservation trust and was converted for residential use in 1997 after being derelict for some time.
The building dates from the 18th century, with 19th century alterations. It may have replaced an even earlier building; The Half Moon & Stars was listed in a church rate book early in the 17th century and it's reported that brewing took place here "up to the reign of James I".
One of several pubs in the town that used to host cock-fighting in eighteenth and early nineteenth century. This bloody spectacle could last several hours and was eventually banned in 1835. A one time it was particularly popular as a form of gambling and bouts were often held during festival days and during the Ipswich horse racing week.
Gallery
Historical interest
To be sold, four tenements in St Mathew's Parish, one being a Publick House known by the Name of the Half Moon and Star, two fit for Private Families and the other a Smith shop with a pretty Dwelling, the whole at £18 per annum.Ipswich Journal, August 14th 1736***
To be lett, the Half Moon and Star, in St Matthew's Parish, Ipswich, containing four rooms on a floor, with two good Cellars, a Brewing-Office, a Stable and a large Yard…
Landlords
(Most pub, location & historic details collated by Nigel, Tony or Keith - original sources are credited)
(some old PO directory information courtesy of londonpublichouse.com)
(*** historic newspaper information from Bob Mitchell)
Old OS map reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland.
