Edenton - The South's Prettiest Small Town
Travels on a Tank by Marcy Hege
Marcy Hege is the managing editor of Boom! Magazine. Most recently, she worked as the executive director of International Focus, Inc., a nonprofit arts organization that produces Raleigh’s International Festival. Prior to her nine-year tenure with International Focus, Inc., Hege owned an association management firm for 12 years. In all her previous endeavors, Hege acquired extensive marketing, publishing and public relations experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public policy from Duke University in 1975. Hege received her Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives in 1981. She serves on the board of directors for the Women’s Club of Raleigh, the Raleigh Garden Club, Friendship Force and Assistance League of Raleigh.
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 Originally incorporated as “The Towne on Queen Anne’s Creek,” Edenton takes visitors back in time with its historic buildings and Broad Street that leads one to the relaxing sight of the Albemarle Sound. Southern hospitality is a staple. Located about 140 miles east of Raleigh, you can be there in under three hours, much less time (and gas) than it takes for a road trip to Charleston, South Carolina. In addition to its historical interest, you’ll find plenty of water and nature activities for your vacationing enjoyment.
Established in 1712 and incorporated in 1722, Edenton served as North Carolina’s first Colonial Capital until 1743. In colonial times, Edenton was a thriving port on the north shore of the Albemarle Sound, trading with the colonies, England and other world ports. The area was a political hotbed as evidenced by the Edenton Tea Party in 1774, an event where 51 local women openly showed disdain for English rule and their sympathy for Bostonians.
Edenton is well known for its examples of Jacobean, Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian architectural styles spanning almost three centuries. The historic district features two structures designated National Historic Landmarks, the Cupola House and the Chowan County Court House. St. Paul’s Church is the second oldest church in the state. Its churchyard is resting place of three former governors and numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
 The Historic Edenton Visitors Center is the first stop for the history and architecture buffs and is open year-round (with exception of major holidays). The visitor center, located in the Ziegler House (1892) on Broad Street, features information, an audiovisual program about Edenton’s history, exhibits, a gift shop, and visitor rest areas. The center is the departure point for guided tours. These walking tours include:
• 1736 St. Paul's Episcopal Church
• 1758 Cupola House National Historic Landmark
• c. 1782 Barker House
• 1767 Chowan County Courthouse National Historic Landmark
• 1800/1827 Iredell House State Historic Site
 Edenton’s waterfront parks showcase its water vistas. Being on the Albemarle Sound, sailing, fishing, kayaking and canoeing activities are available for water buffs. Guest golfing rates are available at Chowan Golf and Country Club. If you arrive by boat, complimentary slips are available for a two night stay.
Another interesting activity might be a visit to the National Fish Hatchery operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Edenton facility has a hatchery, a public aquarium and a raised boardwalk through a wetland area. These facilities are open to the public for self-guided tours.
The first weekend of May is packed full of activities such as the Edenton Decorator’s Showcase, the Garden Conservancy Tour starting at Cupola House and the Tea and Flea on the grounds of the Iredell House. June’s highlight event is the Music and Water Festival on June 17. Baseball enthusiasts can catch a summer game with Edenton’s Steamers at historic Hicksville Stadium.
Accommodations in Edenton range from charming bed and breakfast respites in historic properties to commercial motel rooms. Several restaurants serving fast food to gourmet dining are in the area to satisfy your dining demands.
For more information on Edenton and its vacation possibilities, visit www.visitedenton.com. For more information about Edenton’s history, tours and architecture, visit www.edenton.com
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