PRESERVATION SEMINAR OVERVIEW
CUPOLA HOUSE GETS RUBBED
CUPOLA HOUSE MEMBERS HELD UP RICE PAPER TO MAKE ARTISTIC RENDERINGS
THE CUPOLA HOUSE GETS RUBBED
Historic Molding Recently Rubbed Renderings To Be Auctioned Off
The famed Cupola House has been dissected, inspected, protected, reconnected and its preservation efforts have been perfected. Earlier this week it was rubbed.
On Thursday afternoon members of the Cupola House Association came together to perform the ancient art of rubbing, or frottage. The early origins of frottage can be traced back to ancient and medieval times.While rubbings have dated back to the 2nd century as a way for ancient China scholars to document essential history, Thursday’s gathering at the Cupola House was meant to accomplish a similar task. Recording history through frottage is not only an ancient way to document events, in Edenton its also a way to enjoy an afternoon in one of the towns most important historic projects while preparing to raise funds through the sale of the rubbings at the Cupola sponsored Easels in the Garden.
One of the highlights of the process was depicting which floral attribute from the gardens surrounding the home where originally brought inside, carved into the original molding centuries ago throughout the home to enhance natures visit inside. The recent rubbings highlight the floral blooming in the Cupola House’s gardens.
The rubbings will be offered for sale through a private silent auction during the Easels in the Garden event. The technique was revolutionized by surrealist artist Max Ernst in the 1920s. He coined the term frottage, rom the French frotter, meaning “to rub”.
The process is relatively simple. Place rice paper over textured surfaces, rub with a pencil or charcoal until the desired image is obtained.
With the recent return of the original Cupola House woodwork and molding from the Brooklyn Museum the event was a frottage artist’s dream.
To view the recent rubbings make sure to attend Easels in the Garden, April 17 & 18.
THE WEEKEND WAS AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE FOR MANY
PRESERVATION EXPERTS, ENTHUSIASTS GATHER IN AWE
Edenton’s future preservation efforts and those initiatives bringing the past to life were the topics of discussion, highlighting conversations on the town’s stellar success on three amazing projects. The Cupola House, The Kadesh Church and Hayes Farm each were a monumental backdrop for moments along the town tour as many guests gazed in awe at each of the gems. One of the most moving moments of the weekend was to hear fifth generation descendants of Kadesh Church architect and builder Hannibal Bradham view the church in which they worshipped as youngsters.
On March 20 and 21, the Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation and the Edenton Historical Commission with support from the Richard Hampton Jenrette Foundation hosted the two day event entitled ‘Innovating Preservation in Small-Town America’.
Over 125 guests, both local and from around the country, including students from prestigious colleges and universities heard preservationists and historical researchers speak on Edenton’s most cherished historical projects.
Edenton Historical Commission Executive Director Robert Leath and Director of Marketing, Development and Events Patti Mordecai coordinated the two day schedule of International and Nationally known speakers on research associated with Edenton’s prized treasures.
“The seminar highlighted how small towns can be real centers of innovation in historic preservation, and Edenton is leading the way,” said Robert. “Preservationists throughout the region want to see what we are accomplishing with Kadesh AME Zion Church, Cupola House, and Hayes Farm and learn how it benefits Edenton and its economy.”
The seminar spotlighted three of Edenton’s most predominate historical properties. Founder of Down East Preservation Dawson Tyler spoke on the restoration of the Kadesh church which will be turned over to the congregation over the next few weeks. Andrew Ownbey of Andrew Ownbey Restoration gave an in-depth discussion on the return of the Cupola House's original woodwork from a lengthy stay at the Brooklyn Museum. He also offered a hands on overview of the preservation progress Hayes Farm.
Over the two days a dozen technical, historically focused speakers from around the country each involved in the projects offered insight into the development, research and progress.
The seminar boosted Edenton’s historical presence on the national stage for the town’s quality - focused approach to its historical properties. The pride of workmanship with each detail being researched and executed as though the original craftsmen mentored the project and process throughout the property has raised the national preservation bar because of the work on display this past weekend.
Editor’s Note: For a more in-depth review of the events and speakers pick up a copy of the April edition of the Edenton Social Light, arriving in the red good news boxes on Broad St. the second week of April.
A video with Hannibal Badham's descendant
EXEC. DIRECTOR EDENTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION ROBERT LEATH
CUPOLA, KADESH AND HAYES ON TOUR
Innovating preservation in a small town was one of the topics discussed this past weekend as over 100 preservationists along with those interested in following modern day efforts to preserve history attended the two day seminar. Edenton Historical Commission Executive Director opened the two day event focused on Edenton’s three historic gems, The Cupola House, The Kadesh Church and Hayes Farm and the preservation efforts currently being put forward to save and polish Edenton’s history.
Finding someone with an understanding of Colonial and early American History, combined with an extensive and distinguished career in both historic preservation and curatorial leadership could have posed a challenge for most municipalities with numerous national treasures under renovation.
Not so for Edenton. Enter Robert Leath.
Edenton resident Robert Leath is a historic preservationist who has spent his career polishing gems, many set on top of stone.
His talent, expertise and watchful eye in the areas of historic preservation are world renowned. His attention to detail and his research into the provenance of the projects he touches repeatedly receive high praise.
He has been focused, since moving to Edenton three years ago, on restoring, renovating and essentially polishing Edenton’s future, it’s historic past.
As the Executive Director of the Edenton Historical Commission and Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation, Robert leads and closely collaborates with a team of expert artisans, historians, craftsman and consultants. Under his leadership the group has turned historic town dwelling restorations into architectural and cultural advanced history lessons for already well versed historians.
Leath oversees the restoration activities of town’s historic sites that span the better part of two centuries. These include the 1758 Cupola House, the Kadesh Church and Hayes Farm.
Under Leath’s direction, Edenton’s preservation efforts will continue to be a part of the current national effort of preserving the past for future generations.
BEN PROSKY OFFERED OPENING REMARKS, SATURDAY
Benjamin Prosky became President of the Richard Hampton Jenrette Foundation in 2023. With a degree in Urban Studies from Vassar College, followed by graduate work in Urban Planning at Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Prosky has devoted his career to a range of projects dedicated to the promotion and interpretation of architecture and design. Previously he served for seven years as the Executive Director of American Institute of Architects New York Chapter (AIANY) and the Center for Architecture. He has held prior leadership roles at several prestigious academic institutions, serving as Assistant Dean for Communications at Harvard University Graduate School of Design and Director of Special Events and External Affairs at Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. A Native New Yorker, Prosky divides his time between Brooklyn and Woodstock, New York.
UPCOMING EVENTS WORTH NOTING
YEARLY BUNNY BREAKFAST THE BEST
Edentonians of all ages including infants, toddlers, grade schoolers, moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, neighbors, friends and hungry pancake cravers will once again have the opporbunity TO ENJOY BEAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY at the Unanimity No. 7 Masonic Lodge at E. Water Street on Saturday morning April 4. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausages and a hug from the Easter Bunny.
This is annual lodge event is a tremendously tasteful success with the community’s pancake breakfast enthusiasts. Masonic Lodge members flip pancakes and grilled sausages while making a lot of bunny huggers happy.
Following breakfasts, families parade to the Courthouse Green where the Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Edenton Baptist Church begins. However, the activities don't end after the hunt. A popcorn stand and a face painting station contribute to the annual community gathering of families partaking in an event envied by other towns.
With the level portion of the Green taped off and filled with multi colored Easter Eggs, including the ‘Golden Egg’ community youngsters enjoy romping through the field of sprouting pin wheels and multi colored eggs filled with treats for starry eyed hunters.
The line up for the bunny breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m.
EASELS in the GARDEN RETURNS
Easels in the Garden is a biennial art and garden fundraiser event sponsored by the Cupola House Association, featuring en plein air artists from Edenton and around the region painting in private gardens and public spaces. The event has grown since its start in 2012 and this year will feature 46 en plein air artists will be painting at a dozen private homes and public buildings.
The artists and their work will be on display and available for purchase by ticketed guests at the Saturday evening Garden Party.
If you have not purchased your tickets for this favorite spring-time event that supports the efforts of Cupola House, purchase tickets at: https://cupolahouse.org/ and tickets may be available the day of the event at the Cupola registration.
Pick up a copy of the Edenton Social Light in the Red News Boxes on S. Broad St. for more on this beautiful event.
FARMERS MARKET SPRING FESTIVAL
Belhaven Memorial Museum Project
Belhaven Memorial Museum
The Belhaven Memorial Museum is a non-profit organization whose mission is to collect, display and preserve historical and cultural artifacts and objects and to stimulate and encourage interest and support of the history, art, science and culture of the Belhaven area of Beaufort County, and of Eastern North Carolina as a whole. The museum builds upon the original collection of Mrs. Eva Blount Way (1869-1962). The museum is currently undergoing renovations and is accepting donations to help make the building open and accessible to the public once again.
Experience an Exclusive Evening at the Belhaven Memorial Museum
Saturday, March 28 | 6–9 PM | Spoon River Event Hall
Sip, mingle, and be part of our community as we unveil the museum’s exciting next chapter. Enjoy refreshments, great company, and a first look at what’s to come!
Tickets: $100
Reserve yours now at belhavenmuseum.org or through the Belhaven Community Chamber of Commerce.
Don’t miss this unforgettable night—spaces are limited!
THe CUPOLA HOUSE FLAGS PAY HOMAGE TO THE NATION'S 250
THE PARADING FENCE OF FLAGS
Tom and Huck would be proud of what you can do with a fence.
Passers by the Cupola House on their way to the water may want to slow down and read the wonderful description of the flags on display as the Cupola House Association once again created another enjoyable educational venue, this time on the fence surrounding the currently blooming gardens, fresh with tulips and other spring heritage flowers. For the full display of flags and description click the link below. Then parade by the Cupola House Fence of Flags...The flags were fenced by a group of volunteers. Board member Michael Tracey designed and created the display boxes featuring the history of each flag.
A SUNNY March 21 SATURDAY DOWNTOWN
GIRL SCOUT COOKIES AT THE FARMERS MARKET
THE ALBEMARLE QUEEN EASTER WEEKEND
SPRING FLOWERS FROM THE PARK
PATRICK SEXTON BAYSIDE BAKERY DOUGHNUT DUSTER
PATRICK SEXTON BAYSIDE BAKERY DOUGHNUT DUSTER
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
PATRICK SEXTON BAYSIDE BAKERY DOUGHNUT DUSTER
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
LIKE THE RESIDENTS. EDENTON DOGS ARE EXTREMELY FRIENDLY
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
DOUGHNUTS PERFECTLY DUSTED BY DOUGNUT DUSTER PATRICK SEXTON
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
A CHORUS OF HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
ANALYZING ROOTS OF PRESERVATION
BIRTHDAY WISHES ARE IN ORDER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
ANALYZING ROOTS OF PRESERVATION
UPCOMING EVENTS
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
VOLUNTEER SEASON IS UPON US
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET
EASTER EGG HUNT SET ON THE TOWN GREEN
ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET
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
Childrens Festival, April 18
On Saturday, April 18, the Chowan/Perquimans Smart Start Partnership (CPSSP) will be hosting the 18 annual week of the young child event.
The yearly Children's Festival brings families, service providers and a massive amount of volunteers together to promote a safe and smart start to a child’s future. A variety of games and active, fun events are scheduled for the kids and a vast selection of information on services and programs to assist children and families facing the joy and challenges of raising youngsters.
In years past, the petting zoo was one of the major attractions of the event.
CPSSP program coordinator Sarah Williams, highlighted services the Smart Start program offers. “Parents who need support improving parenting skills, addressing a specific child behavior, or simply want to ensure that they are doing their best as a parent can enroll in the Triple P program. The partnership schedules both one-on-one and group sessions to help parents address child behaviors or other issues causing them stress or concern.
In the past more than 500 adults and children lined up early and enjoyed the event at Perquimans Recreation Center.
“‘We’re celebrating the lives of young children, providing them with educational experiences, while at the same time because we are a rural community, we are trying to get parents information on what services are available,” Williams said. “Many services are available, but people don’t necessarily know about them or want to ask for help. Working with other agencies and organizations in the community to come together to tackle the big issues facing early child care and education is another way of supporting families.”
This year’s Week of the Young Child Children’s Festival and Safe Kids Day begins at 10:00 a.m. and continues until 1:00 p.m at the Perquimans Recreation Center.
ANNUAL LION'S CLUB BREAKFAST FOR THE BLIND
The Edenton Lions Club is sponsoring a Breakfast for the Blind on Saturday, March 28 at the Edenton United Methodist Church.The event begins at 6:30 a.m. and continues until 10:00 a.m. The ticket pays for breakfast plus the money helps pay for eye exams, eye glasses and a vision van along with other events and supplies.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, FRIDAY NIGHT CATFISH
Saint Ann's Parish Hall is the place to be during Friday night's during Lent. ...
Weather Update-March 27 - April 2
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
📍 Historic Edenton North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook:
Friday, March 27 — Thursday, April 2, 2026
Friday
⛈️ Very warm with late-day storms possible
High: ~83°F • Low: ~44°F
Gusty showers and thunderstorms possible late.
Saturday
🌤️ Breezy, much cooler, mostly sunny
High: ~54°F • Low: ~36°F
A sharp drop in temperatures.
Sunday
☀️ Mostly sunny
High: ~63°F • Low: ~47°F
Cool but pleasant.
Monday
🌤️ Partly sunny and warmer
High: ~74°F • Low: ~54°F
A quick rebound to spring warmth.
Tuesday
☀️ Mostly sunny and warm
High: ~78°F • Low: ~59°F
Dry and increasingly warm.
Wednesday
🌤️ Very warm with sun & clouds
High: ~81°F • Low: ~62°F
Early taste of summer returns.
Thursday
🌦️ Very warm with showers
High: ~82–83°F • Low: ~63°F
Clouds increase with rain chances.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
A dramatic spring swing defines the week in Edenton. After a very warm and stormy Friday, a cold front brings a sharp cooldown Saturday, with temperatures dropping nearly 30 degrees.
The chill is brief, as sunshine returns Sunday and a steady warming trend begins Monday through mid-week, pushing temperatures back into the upper 70s and low 80s. By Thursday, summer-like warmth combines with increasing moisture, bringing another chance of showers.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
• ⛈️ Stormy and very warm Friday
• 📉 Sharp cooldown Saturday
• ☀️ Pleasant Sunday rebound
• 📈 Rapid warm-up mid-week
• 🌦️ Showers return Thursday