Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse — Attraction in Edenton

The Chowan County Courthouse was completed in 1767 and is the oldest courthouse still in active use in North Carolina. The courthouse’s design is attributed either to John Hawks, architect of Tryon Palace in New Bern, or Gilbert Leigh, a local builder. It features a T-shaped layout with Flemish bond brickwork, a central courtroom, and a second-floor assembly room often referred to as a ballroom.

The building has a two-stage wooden cupola with a weathervane atop the structure, reflecting classical British architectural influences.

During the Revolutionary era, the courthouse was a hub of political and legal activity. Figures such as Joseph Hewes (a signer of the Declaration of Independence), James Iredell (later a U.S. Supreme Court Justice), and Samuel Johnston (Governor and U.S. Senator) practiced law and held meetings there.

It is one of the most impressive buildings in Edenton and well...

History. Drama. Preservation. The town of Edenton has done a great job. Docents are well trained, personable, and...

Wonderful very old courthouse, wood plank floors. Imagine the many steps that have been walked on...