Historic Edenton
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108 North Broad Street |
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| About the Site
Edenton, North Carolina, is a storybook place. The view across Edenton Bay and the Albemarle Sound from the foot of Broad Street, the lovely waterfront parks, the tree-lined streets flanked by fine eighteenth- and nineteenth-century homes, the magnificent 1767 Chowan County Courthouse with its green running to the water, together yield an unsurpassed feeling of romance, charm, and warmth. (The Chowan County Courthouse is a National Historic Landmark). But, Edenton is more than its long, important history. It is a prosperous and vibrant community that welcomes visitors to share in the beauty of the land and the water, and in life today in a remarkable small Southern town. Edenton has been called "The South's prettiest town." Established in the late seventeenth century and incorporated in 1722, it is located on Edenton Bay at the head of the Albemarle Sound, 90 miles southwest of Norfolk, Virginia. A town of 5,000 people, Edenton retains an extensive historic district with a wonderful assemblage of eighteenth-, nineteenth-, and early-twentieth-century buildings. A guided walking tour of the historic district is offered several times daily throughout the year from the Visitor Center. During the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, Edenton was a political, cultural, and commercial center in the colonies and in the fledgling nation. One of its citizens signed the Declaration of Independence (a second signer died in Edenton while fleeing his creditors), and another signed the United States Constitution. Artisans in Edenton and the surrounding Chowan and Roanoke River basins were leaders in building and cabinetmaking. During the early eighteenth century, Edenton was the second largest port in the colonies. Today, the record of accomplishment from earlier days can be seen in the public and private buildings along the streets of this remarkable community, and in the pride its residents take in their past and present. | |||
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About the Facilities
Handicap Accessibility: Visitor center is fully accessible; site is partially accessible. Nearest Major Town/City: Edenton (90 miles from Greenville, NC. 90 miles from Norfolk, VA) For Visitor Information:
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| About the Programs
Major Program Areas: Colonial, Federal period, Maritime, African-American Education Resources:
Education Coordinator: Kathy Busby |
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