Swampscott was a wonderful place from 1958-1961. The pier was brand new (now just a few rotting posts in the water). The New Ocean House was a thriving resort, and the butcher shop on the corner had the best Knockwurst anywhere (my first, so naturally they were the best).
I had a good friend who lived in Swampscott in the late 70’s. It was still nice then ; )