DAR STATE VICE-CHAIR, 250 CELEBRATION

History is embedded in Edenton resident Sally France Kehayes’ soul. 

A member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, currently serving as the DAR State Vice-Chairman for Edenton’s 250 celebration, Kehayes has always had her focus set on the past and the future. 

“Preservation is progress, an expression that describes Edenton’s emphasis on our history as seen in architecture and culture” explained Kehayes. “ Cultural tourism is a fascinating aspect of life in Edenton. Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Edenton Resolves is a way to bring people into Edenton, to learn and enjoy all that is offered here.”

Before moving back to her husband Alex’s hometown, Kehayes had an intense professional career of 30 years working with children with life-threatening and chronic illnesses. She offered help to the families providing emotional care to them during their hospitalizations. When she and her husband retired the couple decided to move back to Edenton to enjoy the lifestyle.

“Edenton was an opportunity to do different, less intense activities. I have always enjoyed history and community involvement so I became a volunteer. I have been intrigued by the story, and history, of the 51 women who signed the Edenton Resolves since I first moved to Edenton. I knew Miss Elizabeth Vann Moore who did the first research, using primary sources, to document what became known as the Edenton Tea Party. Her papers were given to the Joiner library at East Carolina University. I have spent many, many hours there engrossed in reading her work.”

A past chairman of the Edenton Historical Commission and currently the co-chair for the Community Outreach and Special Events Committee Kehayes is immersed in Edenton activities. 

“I believe it is important to know our history, as individuals, communities, and country. An absolute strength of Edenton is the willingness of individuals to be involved in every aspect of our community. So many volunteers work with non-profit efforts to ensure the vibrancy of Edenton. The volunteers who have worked on the events during this past year and the organizations and people who are putting the events together for Oct 25 and 26 are to be congratulated for all they have accomplished,” said Kehayes.