Edenton is full of history. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, Edenton’s role in American history is well-documented.
Established in the late 17th century, Edenton became North Carolina’s first Colonial capital and today features an extensive historic district with architectural styles spanning 300 years.
The downtown boasts National Historic Landmarks and multiple locations on the National Register of Historic Places.
Here are 7 popular historic sites in Edenton that you won’t want to miss!
#1 – The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center
Start at this 18th century Georgian mansion known affectionately as “Edenton’s Living Room.”
Situated on the waterfront with sweeping views of Edenton Bay, you’ll be welcomed to Edenton and learn about one of the first political actions taken by women prior to the American Revolution.
At the Penelope Barker House, you can purchase tickets for local tours and find walking maps and visitor guides to help you navigate the town.
#2 – 1767 Chowan County Courthouse
Nearby, you’ll find the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, a National Historic Landmark.
The North Carolina Supreme Court still meets annually to hear cases at this courthouse, making it the oldest colonial courthouse still in use in the country.
When visiting the Courthouse, you’ll get the added bonus of some of the best views of the waterfront and sweeping courthouse green from the upstairs windows!
Tour tickets can be purchased at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center.
#3 – Joseph Hewes Monument and 1778 Cannons
Stroll down the Courthouse Green toward the waterfront to see the Joseph Hewes Monument and 1778 Cannons.
This memorial to the signer of the Declaration of Independence highlights the achievements of Joseph Hewes, including his role in forming the United States Navy.
In front of the monument, you’ll find preserved Revolutionary War cannons standing guard at the waterfront.
#4 – 1758 Cupola House and Gardens
Built in 1758, the Cupola House is one of the finest examples of Jacobean architecture in the South and one of North Carolina’s most significant colonial dwellings.
This Registered National Historic Landmark showcases Georgian woodwork, 17th and 18th century artifacts, and Colonial Revival Heritage Gardens with heirloom plants.
The beautiful gardens are free-of-charge and open to the public daily, while tickets for house tours can be purchased at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center.
#5 – 1736 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Also on the National Registry of Historic Places, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is North Carolina’s oldest church building still in regular use.
The churchyard contains a number of historical grave markers, including the resting places of three early 18th century North Carolina governors.
The churchyard is open to visitors daily and tour information can be obtained at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center.
#6 – The Iredell House Homesite, 1800/1827
Home to a United States Supreme Court Justice and one of North Carolina’s governors, the Iredell House Homesite is a meticulously preserved, Federal-style house full of colonial artifacts.
On the property, you’ll find a 19th century carriage house, a one-room schoolhouse, a dairy, kitchen, smokehouse, and colonial gardens.
Tickets and tour information can be obtained at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center.
#7 – 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse
The fully restored 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse stands proudly overlooking Edenton Bay.
As the last surviving screw-pile lighthouse in North Carolina, this beautifully restored lighthouse allows visitors to see what it was like to live and work as a lighthouse keeper.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular waterfront views from the lighthouse deck, and tickets to tour the inside living quarters can be purchased at the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitors Center.
From trolley tours to boat tours to walking tours, there are many ways to enjoy and learn about Edenton’s history!
We have several luxurious and conveniently located Bed and Breakfasts throughout downtown Edenton, as well as beautiful vacation rentals within easy walking distance of these historic attractions.
Whether you enjoy history and architecture or just want to discover more about Edenton, we invite you to visit Edenton in 2025 and experience all it has to offer.
We can’t wait to see you soon!
