A Visit to Iredell House, Edenton

Today saw the realization of a dream of several years. I was able to visit Edenton, known throughout the US as one of the prettiest little small towns in the South. A second straight impossibly lovely October day proved a fitting backdrop for a first visit to this charming spot, and I enjoyed my time in Edenton immensely. 

The first stop on the itinerary was the Iredell House, home of Colonial Bigwig James Iredell. Iredell was a justice on the very first United States Supreme Court, appointed, according to the incredibly well-informed guide, by none other than George Washington himself. 

Sadly, Iredell did not enjoy the house for long, as he died before renovations were complete. His family, however, did get to live in the house. 

The large white clapboard house is, as can be said about many a Southern home of the period, gracious and welcoming. It amazes me sometimes to think of the important folks who lived in homes that the nouveau riche of today would balk at. I think they're wonderful, however. 

From the parlor to the graceful double arch details of the dining room, to the rather large bedrooms upstairs, the Iredell House is perfectly period, and well-maintained in the not-quite-pristine manner that hallmarks smaller historical sites. Wide-plank floors and true, bright Colonial colors abound. Just one piece of furniture in the home can be tied to the Iredells, but much of the home is peppered with furnishings and decor that accurately represent the Colonial era. Iredell House was a great place to start a day in Edenton, and a visit to this refined home is recommended. More photos below. 

[photos copyright Megan Petty]