The Colonial Courthouse in Edenton

Built in 1767, the colonial courthouse in Edenton, North Carolina, is said to be the most original one still this much intact in America. Joseph Hewes, later a signer of the Declaration of Independence, had been appointed as one of the commissioners to secure funds to build it. Patriot supporters James Iredell and Samuel Johnston heard cases here when they sat as judges. The building is a fine example of the Georgian architecture favored in the South at the time. Today it is a National Historic Landmark.

The town itself was formed toward the end of the 1600's and incorporated in 1722. It was a hotbed of political activity around the Revolution, including the Edenton Tea Party, where a group of 51 women gathered to encourage the push for independence. Despite the title of the event, I don't think any tea was served.  In fact, they sent a letter to King George declaring they would drink no more tea or wear dresses made of British fabrics until the unreasonable taxation was repealed. The men in Boston had disguised themselves when they threw the tea overboard into the Boston Harbor, but these women boldly signed their names. This political action by a group of women shocked much of the western world, especially those in England.

Today the Edenton Courthouse is one of the colonial buildings visitors can tour. Go to the visitor's center, and you can schedule a walking tour of the main historic sites. It's open from 9 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Guided tour packages range from $1.00 to $9.00 per person. Children 12 and under are free. I found the tour informative and well-worth the price.

Historic Edenton
108 Broad Street
Edenton, ND 27932
252-482-2637
Email:  edenton@ncdcr.gov

____________________________________________________________