HANNIBAL BADHAM'S WORK HONORED, PRAISED
KADESH A.M.E. ZION CHURCH CONSECRATED
FOR MANY THE ACCOMPLISHMENT OF A LIFETIME
After 23 Years of Struggle
A SACRED PROMISE FULFILLED at KADESH A.M.E. ZION CHURCH
On a spring afternoon steeped in history, faith, and long-awaited joy, the doors of Kadesh African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church opened not just to a congregation—but to the fulfillment of a promise more than two decades in the making.
On Sunday, April 26, 2026, members of the Edenton community and visitors from across the region gathered at the historic church at 117 East Gale Street for a moment many feared might never come—the official consecration and dedication of the restored sanctuary and parsonage.
Led by The Rev. Haywood Dillahunt, Pastor, alongside The Rev. Fondella A. Leigh, Presiding Elder, and The Rt. Rev. W. Darin Moore, Presiding Bishop, the service marked not only a religious milestone, but a powerful testament to perseverance, faith, and community resolve.
For 23 years, the vision of restoring Kadesh A.M.E. Zion Church stood as both a challenge and a calling. Generations carried the weight of that mission—through setbacks, delays, and uncertainty—never relinquishing the belief that one day, the church would be made whole again.
That day arrived with emotion that filled every pew.
Tears flowed freely as the congregation stood in reverence, witnessing the culmination of years of prayer, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. What once was an aspiration had become reality—a sacred space restored, rededicated, and ready to serve generations to come.
Former judge Christopher Bean, addressing the congregation, reflected on both the long road to restoration and the deep personal connection many in the room shared with the church.
“This is the day that several years ago, we thought we might never see,” Bean said.
He recalled first entering the church decades ago. “I can remember 40-some years ago, when I was a young man, first coming into this church and being overwhelmed by the beauty and the spirit.”
But that memory was later replaced by devastation.
“I remember coming in after the destruction,” he said. “And thinking, how can this ever come back?”
What followed, he explained, was not the work of one person, but the steady determination of an entire community.
“Neither the congregation nor the historical commission had the resources to accomplish all that had to be done,” Bean said. “We really needed a miracle And later that happened, through the wonderful efforts of Rep. Ed Goodman. He is here with us today, and through his efforts and the State of North Carolina, we stand here in this magnificent building today, largely through your efforts.”
That miracle came in many forms—through state support, preservation efforts, and the relentless work of individuals who refused to let the church be lost. Bean pointed to early guidance from preservation partners, including efforts connected to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the work of consultants who helped shape a path forward—even continuing after funding had run dry.
At the center of it all, however, was the community itself.
“There were chicken fries, and there was a box in the back of the church,” Bean said. “Everybody contributing whatever they could to save this building.”
Those grassroots efforts helped raise nearly $400,000—an extraordinary achievement built on faith, generosity, and shared purpose.
Bean made a point to recognize those whose contributions helped carry the project forward, many of whom, he noted, had not always been publicly acknowledged. Among them were Ed Goodwin, whose efforts helped secure critical support; Sambo Dixon, who helped connect the project to preservation resources; and David Cooper, a consultant who continued his work even after funding was exhausted.
He also acknowledged the tireless work of community members and church supporters, who labored behind the scenes to keep the effort alive.
In addition, Bean recognized a number of individuals and families whose generosity played a vital role in making the restoration possible.
“I think they should be recognized and remembered today as we stand in this building,” Bean said.
From the earliest days of the effort, he added, there was something deeper at work.
“There was a real coming together of this community and of this church,” he said. “And a real sense of pride and hope.”
Looking out over the restored sanctuary, filled with supporters and believers, Bean called the moment one of the most significant in local memory.
“To stand today in this beautifully restored building, surrounded by people of such goodwill… this may be one of the proudest moments in the history of the Edenton Historical Commission,” he said. “And one of the proudest moments in the history of Edenton.”
He closed with a reflection rooted in scripture.
“St. Paul wrote in his first letter to the Corinthians of faith, hope, and love,” Bean said. “Our being here today is a testament to what has been accomplished through faith, hope, and love.”
The Original Roof Raisers
Colony Tire Corporation
Edenton Woman’s Club
Regulator Marine
Sotheby’s—Ann Perry
Mary Scott Haigler
Town of Edenton
Corey Gooden
Anonymous
Sherrod Banks
Kaye Barker
Grace and Chris Bean
Liz and Matt Brentjens
Lyn Castellani
Phyllis and Marshall Clements
Roger Coleman
Rev. Haywood Dillahunt
Mary Drew
Gray and Sambo Dixon
Barb and Alston Gardner
Pat and Wilson Greene
Elizabeth Johnstone-
Sally Francis and Alex Kehayes
Joan and Owen Maxwell
Danita Parker
Marie and Chris Perry
Gail and Bob Rolleri
Susan Rothchild
Mary Jo and Larry Sellers
Judy Sharpe
Ben Speller
Peggy Anne and Roland Vaughan
Mitchell Historic Preservation-
Sacred Places John Hildreth
NC Humanities
State of North Carolina—Representative Ed Goodwin
David Cooper
Anne Rowe
Larry Gordon
Anne Rouse Edwards
Edenton Home Boys
Gloria Wadsworth
Tim Phelps
Marge Barnes
Rosa White
Margaret Werzila
Paul Richmond
RA McLean & Associates
Anne Ellis
'Smartie Pants' Available on Site, 'Bone Drops Herring
“The Bee at the ’Bone” Brings Buzzing Fun to Benefit Local Boys & Girls Club Youth
Edenton is set to host a lively and lighthearted new event this spring with the debut of The Bee at the ’Bone, an adult spelling bee with a spirited twist—all for a great cause.
Taking place Thursday, May 14 at 6:00 p.m., at The Herringbone Restaurant the event invites teams of four to compete in a high-energy spelling showdown at ‘The Bone’. Whether participants are wordsmiths or just in it for the laughs, the evening promises plenty of entertainment, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Adding to the fun is the event’s signature cocktail, the “Smartie Pants,” designed to loosen nerves and maybe even sharpen spelling skills along the way.
Proceeds from the $250 team entry fee will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Albemarle, supporting programs that make a meaningful impact on local youth. Each participant will also receive an official event T-shirt.
The Boys & Girls Club plays a vital role in the Edenton-Chowan community, providing a safe, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Through after-school programs, academic support, and character-building activities, the organization works to ensure that every child has access to opportunities that foster success in school and in life.
Helping lead those efforts locally is Director Elizabeth Mitchell, who serves as a dedicated advocate for youth development in the region. Known for her hands-on approach and strong community connections, Mitchell has been instrumental in expanding programming and building partnerships that directly benefit the children and families the Club serves. Her leadership continues to strengthen the organization’s mission and visibility across the area.
Organizers encourage teams to sign up early, as space is expected to fill quickly for this first-time event.
For more information or to register a team, contact Elizabeth at 252-216-5966.
ALMOST A QUARTER FINALIST....
WE'RE ALMOST IN THE QUARTER FINALS
2026 National Day of Prayer, May 7
Shepard-Prudent Speaker Series
EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
DAR SEARCHING FOR ANCESTORS
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
SAY HELLO TO YOUR NEW KITTY, COCO
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
A HANDMADE CARD FOR MOM
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
BEE KEEPER SUPPLIES AT BYRUM HARDWARE
Chamber Honors, Celebrates Community, Volunteers, Businesses
CHAMBER DIRECTOR SUSAN CREED DOES IT AGAIN
Edenton Chowan Chamber of Commerce President Susan Creed once again delivered an evening that perfectly blended community, commerce, and celebration, as more than 250 guests gathered for the annual Chamber Business Banquet.
Held inside the showroom-style woodshop of Rustic to Reclaimed, the setting itself reflected Edenton’s evolving business landscape—industrial roots paired with creativity, craftsmanship, and new energy. Warm lighting, handcrafted wood surfaces, and the hum of conversation created an atmosphere that was equal parts polished and personal.
Guests from across the region—business owners, civic leaders, educators, and volunteers—came together not only to celebrate achievement, but to recognize the momentum building across the community.
The evening opened with remarks from Adam Britt of Colony Tire, who offered a compelling look at the history and evolution of Peanut Drive—Edenton’s industrial backbone. Britt highlighted the diverse businesses that call the corridor home, noting their contributions not only to jobs and revenue, but to the character of the town itself—from manufacturing and craftsmanship to the unmistakable aroma of roasting peanuts that still defines the area.
From there, the program turned to recognition.
A wide range of awards honored individuals and organizations whose work continues to shape Edenton’s identity and future:
- Steve Taylor, Bridge Turn Exxon
- Heather and Paul Newingham, Christian Book Seller
- Karen Foley, Main Street Champion
- Kathy Masters, Volunteer of the Year
- Melvin Tatem, Humanitarian of the Year
- John A. Holmes High School staff, faculty and students, Community Champion
- Edenton Farmers Market (Mary Wolfe), Tourism Award
- Celeste Maus, Mayor’s Environmental Recognition Award
- Main Street Edenton, Organization of the Year
Each recognition told a piece of a larger story—one of a town that continues to invest in itself through people willing to lead, serve, and build.
Throughout the evening, conversations returned again and again to a shared theme: progress. From downtown revitalization and small business growth to expanding job opportunities and rising economic indicators, Edenton is not standing still—it is moving forward with intention.
And yet, what made the night memorable was not just the data or the development—it was the people. The laughter between colleagues, the pride in each award recipient, and the sense of genuine connection in the room underscored what makes Edenton unique.
In a space built on craftsmanship, the Chamber’s annual banquet served as a reminder that the town itself is being carefully, thoughtfully built—one business, one volunteer, and one bold idea at a time.
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Weather Update-MAY 1 - 7
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
Historic Edenton North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook:
Friday, May 1 — Thursday, May 7, 2026
Friday
🌤️ Some sun, increasing clouds
High: ~69°F • Low: ~52°F
A quiet, seasonable start to May.
Saturday
🌧️ Cloudy, cooler with periods of rain
High: ~59°F • Low: ~47°F
A damp and noticeably cooler day.
Sunday
🌤️ Sunshine with a few clouds
High: ~65°F • Low: ~49°F
Improving conditions and pleasant air.
Monday
☀️ Mostly sunny and nice
High: ~73°F • Low: ~54°F
Classic spring weather returns.
Tuesday
🌤️ Partly sunny and warmer
High: ~78°F • Low: ~61°F
A steady warming trend begins.
Wednesday
☀️ Mostly sunny and warm
High: ~83°F • Low: ~64°F
Early summer feel building.
Thursday
⛈️ Humid with showers and thunderstorms
High: ~81°F • Low: ~60°F
Unsettled with rain and storm chances.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
A cool and damp start to May gives way to a steady warming trend across Edenton this week. After a cloudy and rainy Saturday, conditions improve Sunday into Monday with sunshine and comfortable temperatures.
By mid-week, summer-like warmth returns, with highs climbing into the 80s. The pattern turns more humid and unsettled by Thursday, bringing showers and thunderstorms back into the forecast.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
• 🌧️ Cool, rainy Saturday
• 🌤️ Pleasant rebound Sunday–Monday
• 📈 Warming trend mid-week
• ☀️ Early summer feel returns
• ⛈️ Storms possible Thursday
Kids and Cops Glow Run
T-shirt enthusiasts need to register before April 9, to receive a Kids and Cops Glow Run t-shirt. The Chowan County Sheriff’s Office is thrilled to host the upcoming Kids and Cops: Glow Run. This exciting event is focused on giving back to the children in our community and strengthening the bond between local law enforcement and our youth.
The Kids and Cops program, established in 2012, was created to build lasting, positive relationships through mentorship, summer camps, and community events. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone for connecting officers and kids in meaningful ways.
The 5K run will light up the night with a fun glow run experience, according to the sheriff's office.
Each race packet will include glow gear to help you shine as you run. Participants who register by the early sign-up date will also receive a commemorative event t-shirt.
Join the department and the sheriff for a night of fun, fitness, and community spirit to support our youth. To register go to: https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Edenton/KidsAndCopsGlowRun