Edenton Welcomes Dog Eared Books to South Broad Street
Dog Eared Books Brings the Independent Bookstore Experience to Edenton
Edenton readers have a new place to browse, discover and talk about books with the arrival of Dog Eared Books, an independent bookstore bringing 11 years of bookselling experience to town.
Owners Carrie and Nick brought Dog Eared Books to Edenton after operating the shop for 11 years in Palmyra, New York, just outside Rochester. Carrie, an avid reader who had already spent 15 years working in the library industry, decided it was time to turn her love and knowledge of books into a business.
It wasn't necessarily the easiest time to open an independent bookstore.
“When we opened in 2015, bookstores were failing at an astronomical rate,” Carrie recalled.
Dog Eared Books survived and developed a loyal following, in part by learning what its customers wanted to read — something Carrie now looks forward to doing all over again in Edenton.
“I know what the people of Palmyra want to buy,” she said. “It's going to be a learning curve to see what the people of Edenton want to buy.”
Fiction is a particular favorite, and the shelves include mystery, fantasy, historical fiction and today's popular genres, along with nonfiction, history and other selections. New books arrive almost daily, and the inventory will continue to evolve based on what Edenton readers are buying and requesting.
The store also carries used books, most of which initially made the trip south from customers in Palmyra. Dog Eared Books purchases used books from customers for cash or offers a larger amount in store credit, giving readers an opportunity to trade a finished book toward their next read.
“We like our used-book experience to feel like the new-book experience,” Carrie explained. “If you can't afford a new book, you can still get a great book at a reasonable price.”
That philosophy extends to young readers. Dog Eared Books carries everything from board books for the youngest children through chapter books and young-adult titles, with used children's books priced at no more than $3.
The bookstore is very much a family affair. Nick helps with the business, while Carrie's mother, Jane, also lends a hand. Jane lives conveniently in the apartment directly above the bookstore, making it easy for her to help when needed.
The shop is already becoming part of Edenton's reading community. The Edenton Book Club is purchasing its selections through Dog Eared Books, and local authors are welcome as well. The store has space devoted to their work, and authors whose books meet the store's guidelines can submit them for consideration through a form on the Dog Eared Books website. The store purchases accepted books rather than taking them on consignment, with the possibility of author signings in the future.
For Edenton, the arrival of Dog Eared Books also represents something increasingly valued by readers: the experience of a true neighborhood bookstore. Independent booksellers offer something an online search can't easily duplicate — a person who listens when you say what you enjoyed last time and can walk you over to a shelf and suggest what you might love next. Small bookstores can become gathering places where readers exchange ideas, children discover the pleasure of choosing their own books and local authors find a place on the shelf.
So far, Carrie and her family are enjoying their new hometown.
“Love the town,” she said. “The people are so welcoming. You have everything here — the weather, the architecture, the water, all these great little shops and the museums.”
And then there is another Edenton attraction they've been diligently exploring.
“The food,” Carrie added. “We're eating our way through one restaurant at a time.”
Dog Eared Books is currently open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hours may evolve as Carrie and Nick learn the rhythms — and reading habits — of their new hometown. Located at 419 South Broad Street, Edenton
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No wonder Edenton is known for being so friendly...
An Edenton Hello Makes All the Difference
Most Saturdays in Edenton, you will find visitors shopping downtown and exploring our historic sites. They may come from neighboring Eastern North Carolina communities or from much farther away. As they walk along South Broad Street, they browse shop windows, enjoy lunch at one of our local restaurants and inevitably meet some of Edenton’s most cherished characters. Take Daniel for instance, strumming his guitar, rain or shine, usually near Surf, Wind and Fire.
On Saturday, Daniel was deep in conversation with a couple standing beside two hybrid electric bikes packed with sleeping gear. Dressed in serious biking clothes, they clearly weren’t out for a leisurely ride around town. I had to stop and say hello.
David and Marie Keohan had been on the road for 15 days since leaving their home in Alabama. Their goal is to bike all the way to Boston, their hometown before moving to Alabama four years ago. David served in the military, and making this trip together has long been on their bucket list.
Daniel, as many of us know, is outgoing and enjoys talking with just about everyone who stops to say hello. The Keohan’s were equally engaging, and as the couple prepared to head toward the waterfront, Daniel had an idea.
“Wow, you have come a long way,” he told them. “Are you collecting stickers from each place you stop? Would you like an Edenton sticker? I would be happy to purchase one for you from Surf, Wind and Fire so you can remember your time in Edenton.”
The couple was touched by Daniel’s offer and promised they would stop back on their way from the waterfront.
And they did.
Waiting for them was Daniel, with an Edenton sticker for the bike and a delicate bracelet for Marie to remember their visit.
In a world where everything seems to move so quickly, and so many of our conversations now take place online or over the phone, it is wonderful to witness a simple act of kindness and hospitality toward people we do not know.
That is something Edenton is known for, and something that happens here every day.
Of all the stops David and Marie will make on their long journey to Boston, I have a feeling their encounter with Daniel will be one they remember — and a story they will tell long after the trip is over.
Daniel was never asked to be an Edenton greeter. He wasn't assigned the job, and no one pays him to do it. He is simply part of the wonderful fabric of life that makes Edenton, Edenton.
The next time you walk by and hear Daniel playing one of his favorite songs, stop for a moment and say hello. Remember that this young man makes a difference in our town simply by being himself. He does it without being asked and without expecting anything in return.
He does it from the heart.
And I am so happy and proud to live in a beautiful town made up of people like Daniel.
P.S. Marie has my email address and has already reached out to tell me how much the encounter meant to them. She has promised to keep me updated as she and David continue their journey north.
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Make Sure to stop by to watch the progress of nature...
From Caterpillar to Butterfly at the Cupola House Nursery
There is a small miracle of nature taking place in the gardens of the Cupola House.
Each year, special nursery boxes are set up in the gardens to provide a safe place for caterpillars as they make one of nature’s most remarkable transformations—becoming butterflies. Caretaking this annual project are Jonny and Barbara Springfield, who diligently watch over the nursery boxes and their tiny residents as the transformation unfolds.
The butterfly life cycle begins when an adult butterfly lays its eggs on a host plant. From those eggs emerge larvae, better known as caterpillars, whose primary job is to eat and grow. When the caterpillar reaches the proper stage, it forms a chrysalis, or pupa. Inside, an extraordinary biological process called metamorphosis takes place as the caterpillar’s body is reorganized and develops into an adult butterfly. When the transformation is complete, the butterfly emerges, allows its wings to expand and dry, and eventually takes flight.
Providing a protected environment during these vulnerable stages can help shield caterpillars and chrysalises from predators and other dangers.
Butterflies are more than beautiful visitors to the garden. As they travel from flower to flower feeding on nectar, they can help with pollination, while both caterpillars and butterflies are important parts of the food web. Their presence can also be an indicator of a healthy habitat with the plants and resources needed to support wildlife.
Thanks to the watchful eyes of Jonny and Barbara, visitors to the Cupola House gardens have an opportunity to see nature at work—from a tiny caterpillar tucked safely inside its nursery to the moment a beautiful butterfly is ready to spread its wings. And perhaps the most magical moment comes at the end, when local children can gather in the gardens to watch the newly emerged butterflies be released and take their first flights into the Cupola House gardens. We will keep everyone informed as this transformation takes place to release the butterflies from the nurseries.
Making A difference in our community- The American Legion
A Thrift Shop Transformation That Supports Our Veterans
I was on a search for inexpensive glass vases to make a few arrangements for friends using flowers from my zinnia garden. I wanted vases they wouldn't have to worry about returning.
I hadn't been out to the old thrift store at 1370 North Broad Street since it closed well over a year ago. Frankly, I didn't even know it had reopened. It was a nice day, so I decided to drive over and see what I could find.
When I opened the door to the now Chowan Veterans Thrift Shop, I was amazed.
What happened to the old, cluttered and unorganized thrift store?
The transformation of this much-needed community business was undertaken by the American Legion. Edenton American Legion Post 40 Commander Ed Mathews took it upon himself to resurrect the former Habitat for Humanity.
I don't think I have ever seen a thrift shop more neatly organized. They even have seasonal end-cap displays. Everything was priced, items were arranged by category, and linens were labeled and neatly stacked on the shelves. Friendly and helpful volunteers, easily recognizable in their blue shirts, were throughout the store ready to answer questions and lend a hand.
What a wonderful surprise to see such organization along with local browsers, Trish Rand and Angela Sikes almost amazed as I was at the organized selection.
Somehow, all that "old stuff" had been transformed into cherished pieces simply waiting for a new home. I walked from aisle to aisle thinking about the tremendous amount of work that must have gone into creating such a clean, welcoming and well-organized shop.
But the best part of the story is where the money goes.
Funds raised through the Chowan Veterans Thrift Shop help support Chowan County veterans.
So, if you're like me and haven't visited the thrift shop in a long time, make it a point to stop by. You may be just as surprised as I was. You'll find a clean, organized shop and a pleasant group of volunteers ready to help you find that one thing you didn't even know you needed.
In my case, I walked out with a dozen clear glass vases, ready to be filled with pretty flowers from my garden.
My total cost? Eleven dollars.
Even better, I left knowing that the money I spent was helping support our local veterans.
That's a win-win for everyone — and a credit to the American Legion and the many volunteers who have given their time and energy to completely transform this community thrift shop.
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Weekend Event at the Cupola House
Edenton Counts Its Pollinators
Under semi-cloudy skies Saturday morning, local residents gathered in the Cupola House Gardens to take part in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, joining thousands of citizen scientists across the Southeast in counting the insects that help keep our gardens and environment healthy.
Master Gardeners from Chowan and Perquimans counties coordinated the Edenton event and assisted participants as they selected flowering plants, observed them for 15 minutes and recorded the bees, butterflies, moths, flies, wasps and other insects that stopped by.
The annual census provides researchers with valuable information about pollinator populations and the plants and habitats that support them.
For younger participants, the morning included some hands-on fun. Children created colorful bees to take home for their gardens while learning about the important role pollinators play in nature.
Evan and Harper Williams, joined by their mom, Jill, learned how to make their own garden bees as part of the morning's activities.
Held in the historic Cupola House Gardens, the event offered a simple reminder that sometimes contributing to science is as easy as finding a flower, watching closely and taking the time to count what comes buzzing by.
Great morning at the cupola house counting
COVER STORY
Standing among 343 American flags Friday morning, Edenton Fire Chief Billy Bass was surrounded by reminders of firefighters who answered their final call 25 years ago.
For Bass, the Sept. 11 observance at Veterans Memorial Park carried an additional significance. After 37 years with the Edenton Fire Department, Friday was his final day before retirement.
The field of flags belonged to 343 other firefighters.
Each represented a member of the New York City Fire Department who died on Sept. 11, 2001 — men who went to work that morning not knowing that before the day was over, their sacrifice would become part of American history.
Bonnie Henn, Regent of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, opened the 343 Flags of Honor Dedication Ceremony by asking those gathered to look beyond the number.
“The 343 flags remind us that 343 is not just a number,” Henn said. “They were sons. They were fathers, husbands and brothers. And today we remember them.”
The ceremony was presented by the Edenton Tea Party Chapter NSDAR in partnership with American Legion Posts 40, 126 and 362.
But Henn's opening message was as much about what followed Sept. 11 as the tragedy itself.
“In the days following September 11, Americans reached for one another,” she said. “We were reminded that the things that unite us are far greater than those that divide us.”
Following the posting of the colors and Chris Nagle's performance of the National Anthem, Sandra Williams, chaplain of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, offered an invocation remembering the victims, their families and those who ran toward danger rather than away from it.
“We remember the immense bravery of the first responders who rushed into danger on September 11,” Williams prayed, before asking for continued protection, strength and peace for those serving today and for “their families, who carry the weight of their service and sacrifice.”
For one man standing before the flags Friday, the events of Sept. 11 were experienced firsthand.
Retired U.S. Army Col. Gary Kollmann was working inside the Pentagon when it was attacked. A 27-year Army veteran who later spent 14 years as a defense contractor, Kollmann now lives in Hertford and serves as adjutant of American Legion Post 126.
His morning had begun routinely.
“We went to work, we talked with our coworkers, and made plans for the day ahead,” Kollmann recalled. “None of us could imagine what was about to happen. Then, in a matter of minutes, everything changed.”
Kollmann and his coworkers were watching television coverage of the attacks in New York when the Pentagon's fire alarm sounded. They evacuated into the parking lot.
“As I was exiting, I looked overhead and did notice the smoke originating from the other side of the building,” he said. “It wasn't until a few minutes later that the news got out that the building had, indeed, been hit by an airplane.”
An individual carrying a satellite phone eventually began moving around the perimeter telling people to take cover.
“Where are we gonna hide? In the parking lot?” Kollmann remembered wondering.
Before cell phones were commonplace, another concern quickly became deeply personal.
“I remember the confusion, and unfortunately, without cell phones, the inability to call my wife and daughters to tell them I was all right,” Kollmann said.
When he returned to work the following day, evidence of what had happened remained.
“It was an eerie feeling to smell the smoke in the hallways and on my uniform.”
Kollmann said 184 people lost their lives at the Pentagon.
“They came from different backgrounds, different walks of life, but they shared something very important,” he said. “They were Americans, and they were someone's husband or wife, someone's father or mother, someone's son or daughter, someone's friend. They were loved.”
Kollmann then offered a perspective extending beyond the anniversary itself.
“Although I was in the Pentagon that day, what I can't remember is the night before,” he said. “I don't remember September 10, 2001 — who I called, what I said, how I spoke or treated the people I loved the most.”
He thinks about the people who packed suitcases, briefcases and diaper bags that night, believing the following morning would simply bring another ordinary day.
“While the rest of the world will remember 9/11, as we all should, I seem to always spend a little time reflecting on 9/10,” Kollmann said.
That reflection has become a reminder to him to spend “a little extra time practicing gratitude, being intentional with my family and offering more words of support, understanding, tenderness and empathy.”
His message ultimately returned to unity.
“In a time of great divisiveness in our country, let us take today to remember that we are better united,” Kollmann said. “We are stronger as humans, as brothers and sisters, and as Americans when we can find tolerance, kindness, mercy and love.”
Bass followed with the perspective of a man who has spent nearly four decades answering fire calls in his own community.
“I've had 37 good years with it,” Bass said of the Edenton Fire Department. “I've enjoyed my time with the fire department.”
He remembered watching the events unfold on television that morning and later seeing the second aircraft strike the World Trade Center.
“As a firefighter, your mind starts going on, ‘What would you do if you were there?’” Bass said. “Most people tell us we're crazy. You run in burning buildings when everybody else is running out.”
The explanation, he said, is uncomplicated.
“We do it because we love helping people.”
Bass recalled a principle taught by former Phoenix Fire Chief Alan Brunacini that he has carried throughout his career.
“You risk a lot to save a lot. You risk little to save little. And you risk nothing to save nothing.”
For Bass, those words describe what the 343 firefighters did on Sept. 11.
“The 343 firefighters that perished that day risked a lot to save a lot,” he said. “They responded to a call just like any other call firefighters do.”
Bass said firefighters do not know what awaits when the alarm sounds.
“We hear the tones, we run to the trucks, we get in our trucks, we drive to the call,” he said. “No one expected that day to be any different.”
The same commitment continues closer to home, Bass said, with 40 active firefighters in Edenton and another 20 at Center Hill.
“We've left Christmas parties, birthdays, to respond to these calls,” Bass said. “Not that we don't want to spend time with our families, but we love helping our community. We love being firemen.”
And while Bass said the firefighters who died that morning likely would not have called themselves heroes, he had no difficulty doing so.
“They don't see themselves as heroes,” he said. “But to us, they are, for what they did.”
Then, on the final day of his own 37-year firefighting career, Bass brought the ceremony back to the reason 343 flags had been placed in the park.
“The most important thing we can remember is we should never forget those who perished on that day 25 years ago today.”
A moment of silence followed. The remaining flags were placed, completing the field of remembrance of the 343 firefighters and many others who lost their lives that day.
COVER PHOTO: Retired U.S. Army Col. Gary Kollmann and soon to be retired - by day's end - Edenton Fire Chief Billy Bass
ABOVE PHOTO: The Field of Memorial Flags
CAC HOSTS POTTERY EXHIBIT
Edenton is graced with a number of talented potters and ceramic artisans from town and around. Renowned Edenton potter Richard Heiser organized the lastest Chowan Arts Council event last Friday evening and pottery took center stage.
There is something about pottery that invites you to look a little closer. A bowl or teapot may begin as an everyday object, but in the hands of an artist, clay can become something altogether different — colorful, imaginative and often, especially in Heiser’s case, whimsical fun.
The spirit of clay was on display at the event were on display.
Visitors gathered at the gallery to enjoy an extensive collection ranging from functional pottery to imaginative sculptural pieces. Whimsical birds, animals and other characters shared space with beautifully glazed bowls, pitchers, vessels and serving pieces, demonstrating just how varied an artist's approach to clay can be.
Among the most eye-catching works were pieces that seemed to have personalities of their own. Birds perched atop colorful creations, a cheerful ceramic figure held a tiny banner spelling out “GROW,” and an oversized sea turtle demonstrated the possibilities of clay as sculpture. Other works relied on texture, glaze and form rather than humor, offering visitors a very different interpretation of the medium.
Town folk turned out to support Heiser, other artists and the council’s gallery. The exhibit also provided an opportunity for guests to spend time together, talk with artists and fellow art lovers and appreciate the depth of creative talent found in Edenton and the surrounding region.
Works by other area potters were represented as well, including Frank Miglori, whose pottery combines functionality with distinctive hand-painted designs. Miglori, who has spent much of his life involved in education and the arts, taught philosophy and art in higher education for 42 years. His work is well known throughout the Edenton area.
Merry Hill artists Lisa Roll of Willow Hill Pottery was also on hand to answer questions. Lisa has many pieces on display at the council.
The gathering was also another reminder of the important role the Chowan Arts Council plays in providing local and regional artists with a place to exhibit their work while giving residents and visitors an opportunity to experience original art close to home.
Edenton Town Council meeting at a glance
Electric Department, Board Appointments and Harbor Repairs Discussed
September 8, 2026
- Electric Department property: Council continued discussing the possible acquisition of land for a future Electric Department site near Hubley Drive. No action was taken. Staff is still working through access and right-of-way issues and discussed substantial buffers between the proposed site and nearby residential areas. Development of the property, if it moves forward, would likely be phased over several years.
- Board of Adjustment appointments: Council appointed John Woodand Anne-Marie Sparks to regular seats on the Board of Adjustment. Hal Murray was subsequently appointed as an alternate member.
- Edenton Harbor repairs: Council approved a resolution supporting the town's application for a Boating Infrastructure Grant for additional harbor and breakwater repairs. The proposed project totals $296,480, with an estimated $222,360 in federal grant fundingand a $74,120 local match. The grant would address four remaining breakwater repair locations and other related waterfront infrastructure needs.
- Filbert's Creek flooding project: Council selected The Wooten Company as the most-qualified engineering firm for the next phase of the Filbert's Creek Restoration project and authorized contract negotiations. The engineering work will examine flooding, the existing constructed wetlands, possible expansion, greenway improvements and other nature-based drainage solutions. The engineering/design phase is expected to be covered through grant funding.
- Constitution Week: Mayor Hackney High proclaimed September 17–23, 2026, Constitution Week in Edenton, recognizing the Constitution and the role of Edenton-area figures in its creation and ratification.
- Public safety concern:Residents raised concerns about an August 22 shooting on West Freemason Street, where a stray bullet struck a residence. Council acknowledged the concern and discussed the difficulty police face when witnesses are unwilling to provide information.
- Town website improvements: The town manager reported that agenda packets for the Historic Preservation Commission, Planning Board and Board of Adjustment are now being placed online, with the intention of posting them when packets are distributed before meetings.
- East Queen Street trees: The town manager said removal of several crape myrtles resulted from a miscommunication. The trees had been intended for pruning rather than removal and will be replanted.
- Main Street Edenton: A public update on Main Street Edenton's activities and use of town-supported economic-development funding is expected in October, with the organization working on a twice-yearly public report.
- Long-delayed development projects: Council expressed growing frustration over delays involving the Beechwood development and downtown Hinton Hotel project and asked that both matters return to the council agenda for further updates. Staff reported that hotel construction plans have been submitted for review, but financing remains an issue.
- Natural gas and internet: Council asked staff to continue discussions with NCDOT and Piedmont Natural Gas about the possibility of extending natural gas infrastructure in conjunction with a future bridge project. Council also requested follow-up regarding promised internet connections in town parks.
Photo: John Wood and Anne Marie Sparks address the Edenton Town Council on their Board of Adjustment appointments.
COVER STORY
EDENTON PROCLAIMS CONSTITUTION WEEK
Mayor Hackney High proclaimed September 17–23, 2026, as Constitution Week in the Town of Edenton during Tuesday evening’s Town Council meeting.
High presented the proclamation to Bonnie Henn, Regent of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, with chapter representative Caroline Butler also participating in the presentation.
The proclamation recognizes the signing of the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787, and highlights Edenton’s connection to the nation’s founding. It specifically recognizes Hugh Williamson, Samuel Johnston and James Iredell for their roles in the creation and ratification of the Constitution.
The proclamation encourages Edenton residents to reflect on the principles established by the Constitution and on the responsibilities of American citizenship.
Constitution Week has long been promoted nationally by the Daughters of the American Revolution as an opportunity to increase awareness and understanding of the Constitution. The Edenton Tea Party Chapter has also made Constitution Day an important part of its local historical programming.
Mayor High officially declared September 17 through September 23 Constitution Week in Edenton.
PHOTO: Caroline Butler, Bonnie Henn and Edenton Mayor Hackney High proudly display Edenton's Constitution Week Proclamation
COASTAL STITCH GRAND OPENING, OCTOBER 2
While some are known to be spinning old yarn each morning at the Edenton Coffee Shop and beyond, a new yarn is taking shape at Coastal Stitch, a needlepoint shop soon to open in the recently renovated Elizabeth Wozelka House at 103 West Queen Street.
Coastal Stitch occupies the first floor of the historic property. Proprietor, Kelly Cross began Coastal Stitch as an online business in January. While online shopping offers convenience, selecting and matching needlepoint threads can be challenging through a screen. Many customers have trusted Kelly to choose and coordinate threads for their projects and ship to their homes.
For the past 15 years, Kelly has worked at ECU Health Chowan and Bertie Hospitals. She began her career as the Volunteer Services Manager, overseeing volunteers and the hospital gift shop, before transitioning into marketing and team member experience. Kelly’s passion for retail dates back to childhood so when she discovered needlepoint opening a shop felt like a natural fit.
“Currently, the nearest needlepoint shops are located in Williamsburg, Raleigh, and Wilmington”, said Kelly. “My goal is for Coastal Stitch to become a destination shop for stitchers throughout eastern North Carolina, particularly those east of I-95 and in the Outer Banks region.”
By opening a physical location in Edenton, customers will have the opportunity to see colors in person and feel confident that their projects will turn out exactly as envisioned. Kelly’s plan includes continuing to operate the online store, offer shipping nationwide, and provide convenient local pickup options.
“My love of stitching began in the 1980s when I learned cross-stitching alongside my mother. As life became busier with raising a family, I set the hobby aside,” said Kelly. “In 2024, my daughter introduced me to needlepoint and shared how much she enjoyed it. At that moment, I realized it was something I could do as well, and I have not looked back since.”
Coastal Stitch will offer classes beginner to advanced level classes along with monthly stitch clubs. Classes and clubs will be available during daytime and evening hours, as well as on weekends, to accommodate a variety of schedules.
“We are excited to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 2 at 5:00 p.m., followed by our grand opening on October 3 at 10:00 a.m. On October 2, we will also welcome our earliest supporters and loyal customers to a private appreciation event. During our grand opening day on October 3, the shop will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.,” said Kelly.
The turnout from locals has already impressed the new business owner.
“I have been overwhelmed by the support, encouragement, and well wishes from fellow downtown business owners and community members,” said Kelly. “I owe a special thank you to Joe and Stephanie Wach for their support throughout this journey.”
Coastal Stitch has also received enthusiastic feedback from needlepoint enthusiasts across the country who are excited to visit Edenton. Needlepoint stitchers are known for traveling near and far in search of a special canvas, unique threads, or simply to support a local shop owner.
“I am grateful to be part of both the wonderful Edenton community and the welcoming needlepoint community, and I look forward to serving stitchers from near and far for years to come,” said Kelly.
Regular business hours will be Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., select Sundays, and closed on Mondays
Calder Loth explores architectural mysteries
Architectural enthusiasts filled the 1767 Historic Courthouse on Wednesday evening, Sept. 16, to hear architectural historian Calder Loth examine one of Edenton’s most recognizable buildings: the Cupola House.
His presentation, “The Cupola House: Observations on an Architectural Conundrum,” explored features that make the house unusual and the questions that remain about how it originally looked and functioned. Loth, a retired senior architectural historian with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, drew on architectural research and examples from other early American and English buildings.
The cupola itself was a focus of the talk. Loth described how such rooftop structures could serve as signs of status, improve ventilation and offer a view of the surrounding landscape. At the Edenton house, he said, physical evidence suggests there may once have been a rooftop viewing area overlooking the waterfront. Its precise design remains uncertain.
Loth also examined the house’s projecting upper story, known as a jetty. He explained how that form relates to early timber-framing methods and compared it with surviving historic buildings. Evidence found during examination of the house has raised questions about its original exterior finish, including whether boards on the façade were shaped to resemble stone.
The presentation gave the full courthouse a close look at the research behind a familiar Edenton landmark. A reception followed, giving attendees an opportunity to continue the conversation about the house and its history.
The talk was part of the Cupola House and Gardens Speaker Series.
Former President celebrated for helping bring historic woodwork home
For Vonna O’Neill, historic preservation has never been simply about protecting an old building. It is a commitment—a promise to carry the dreams of earlier generations forward.
That commitment was celebrated during a gathering in the Cupola House gardens honoring O’Neill for more than 21 years of service to the Cupola House Association, including four years as its president.
The evening included tributes from association leaders, a proclamation from Edenton Mayor W. Hackney High Jr. and the presentation of gifts recognizing O’Neill’s lasting contributions to one of Edenton’s most treasured landmarks.
Much of the evening focused on an accomplishment once thought impossible: the return of the Cupola House’s original 1758 interior woodwork after 106 years at the Brooklyn Museum.
“Vonna believed we could get it back, and she worked diligently to make that happen,” Sam Dixon said.
Dixon recalled how O’Neill helped bring together a delegation that traveled to New York to meet with Brooklyn Museum officials. She then continued pushing the project forward as the historic woodwork was carefully removed, packed, transported down Interstate 95 and returned to Edenton.
Reproduction woodwork was removed from the house, allowing the original panels and architectural elements to be reinstalled in the rooms for which they were created.
“That is something that no one ever thought was possible,” Dixon said. “Because of Vonna, it became a reality.”
Dixon also recognized the devotion of O’Neill’s late husband, Denny O’Neill, who previously served as president of the association. Together, the couple spent more than a decade caring for the house, welcoming visitors, supporting historical scholarship, raising funds and doing the everyday work required to protect the landmark.
“They didn’t simply serve the Cupola House,” Dixon said. “They loved it. They nurtured it, and they made sure it was shared with the public.”
O’Neill became emotional as Dixon spoke of her husband and the devotion they shared.
“Vonna, you brought everybody together to make this happen,” Dixon said. “You kept the dream alive.”
Flora Hall Wood Davis, the association’s incoming president, thanked the organization’s members and those who laid the foundation for its preservation work.
“It is going to be the future that will carry this forward for the next 100 years,” Davis said.
She also recognized the state funding that supported the recent restoration work and thanked Ed Goodwin, Robert Leath and the craftspeople and preservation specialists who helped return the original woodwork to its historic setting.
“What an amazing piece of history we are all living to see, witness and be a part of,” Davis said. “It is indeed a miracle.”
Although grant funding made the restoration possible, Davis reminded those gathered that members and donors remain the heart of the organization. Their contributions pay the bills and support the continuing maintenance and preservation of the house and gardens.
Mayor High then read a proclamation recognizing O’Neill as a civic leader, preservationist and advocate who has devoted many years to enriching Edenton’s history, heritage and character.
The proclamation cited O’Neill’s pivotal role in returning the original woodwork, her leadership in establishing a task force for the house’s long-term preservation and her creation of the Cupola House Community Christmas Tree program.
It also recognized her service to the Friends of the Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library, the Albemarle Chorale, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
High proclaimed Sept. 20, 2026, as “Vonna O’Neill Day” in Edenton.
Sam Dixon and the association presented O’Neill with a custom Cupola House etched platter honoring her “unwavering dedication” to the preservation of the Cupola House and her service as association president from 2022 to 2026.
Karen Foley, publisher of Edenton Social Light, presented O’Neill with a keepsake book filled with photographs, memories and tributes collected from people who have worked alongside her.
O’Neill accepted the honors while directing much of the credit toward the board and the many people who supported the association.
“This isn’t done in a vacuum,” she said. “I had the great honor of having just a fabulous board. They all worked. You don’t get here without having people who are dedicated.”
O’Neill described preservation as a commitment to see dreams through and never lose hope. Efforts to reclaim the woodwork stretched back decades, she said, including letters written to the Brooklyn Museum during the 1960s and a campaign later renewed by her husband.
When Edenton representatives learned in 2023 that returning the woodwork might finally be possible, the association did not yet have the necessary funding. That uncertainty did not weaken their resolve.
“If we had to mortgage our houses, it didn’t matter,” O’Neill recalled.
She compared that determination to the actions of the Edentonians who came together in 1918 to purchase the deteriorating Cupola House and save it from possible demolition.
O’Neill said the Cupola House is the only American building of its era known to have recovered and reinstalled its original woodwork.
She then challenged everyone present to bring two or three new members into the association, stressing that preservation must remain a shared community responsibility.
“Love is like a chain reaction,” O’Neill said. “With the Cupola House, for me—and probably for a lot of you—it is a love story.”
That love was deeply intertwined with her life with Denny, who continued working on Cupola House projects until just days before his death.
“It meant that my husband lived five more years than initially thought because he was committed to the Cupola House,” O’Neill said. “He worked on Cupola House things up until 10 days before he passed away. Now, that’s commitment.”
As she prepared to pass the leadership of the association to Davis and her board, O’Neill assured the membership that the historic property would remain in dedicated hands.
Her presidency may have ended, but the legacy celebrated that evening will remain visible inside the Cupola House—in the original woodwork returned to its rightful home and in a community inspired to continue protecting it.
“I will always love the Cupola House,” O’Neill said.