Featuring 18th and early 19th century history, North Carolina's second oldest town Edenton was one of the fledgling nation's chief political, cultural, and commercial centers. The state's first colonial capital, it was established in the late 17th century and incorporated in 1722. Once its second largest port, Edenton provided slaves with a means of escape via the Maritime Underground Railroad before Emancipation. Today it features an extensive historic district with architectural styles spanning 250 years, such as the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse National Historic Landmark. Read the complete overview
Programs, Group Activities
Special events are conducted throughout the year. Hands-on activities are available for scheduled groups. Guided tours on topics of special interest are available by advanced requests. An Elderhostel program is conducted annually.
Guided Tours
Guided walking tours include:- 1736 St. Paul's Episcopal Church
- 1758 Cupola House
- c. 1782 Barker House
- 1767 Chowan County Courthouse
- 1800/1827 Iredell House
Guided trolley and bus tours (bus not included) are also available. If your group would like a tour about a topic of special interest to you, or if you have special needs, be sure to let us know when you contact us to schedule your tour. Groups of ten or more please contact us for reservations.
Fees
No admission fee for the visitor center. Fees for guided tour packages range from $1.00 to $10 per person. Group and family rates available. Please call us at 252-482-2637.
Other Resources
What's New
Upcoming Events
- Month of August: Beat the Heat tours
Tues - Sat 9 am - 4 pm
Tour the James Iredell House, and learn how families in 18th century Edenton coped with heat and humidity. While there, check out local and regional art in the air-conditioned Edenton Visitor Center and buy a few early Christmas presents.
Historic Edenton Information
Contact Us
Historic Edenton
108 N. Broad St.
Edenton, N.C. 27932
Phone: (252) 482-2637
Email: edenton@ncdcr.gov
Hours of Operation
Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and state holidays.
Tourism Development Authority
P.O. Box 245
116 East King St
Edenton, N.C. 27932
Phone: (800) 775-0111 or (252) 482-3400