The Edenton Tea Party and the Legacy of Penelope Barker
If you’ve ever visited Edenton or stayed at our North Carolina bed and breakfast, you may have noticed the iconic bronze teapot statue along Colonial Avenue, but do you know its significance? That teapot commemorates one of the boldest acts of political defiance in early American history: the Edenton Tea Party of 1774. Unlike the more famous protest in Boston, this revolutionary stand was organized entirely by women.
The Bold Women Behind the Edenton Tea Party
In the fall of 1774, as tensions with Great Britain grew, 51 women in Edenton made their voices heard. Led by Penelope Barker, they signed a resolution to boycott British tea and cloth, sending their declaration directly to Parliament. Their action was open, deliberate, and courageous.
Unlike the Boston Tea Party, which relied on disguise and secrecy, the women of Edenton signed their names proudly. A satirical cartoon in London mocked them, but history remembers their bravery. These women stood for liberty and independence at a time when few expected women to take such a public stand. Their resolve still defines the character of this harbor town.
Today, visitors to Edenton can walk the same streets where these women once gathered and explore the homes and landmarks that framed their lives.
The Barker House and Penelope Barker’s Legacy
Overlooking the Edenton Bay, the Barker House (505 S Broad St) stands as a proud testament to the life and legacy of the woman behind the protest. Born in 1728, Penelope was widowed twice before marrying Thomas Barker, a prominent lawyer and member of the Colonial Assembly. With her husband often away in England acting as the colony’s agent, Penelope managed their extensive household and landholdings herself, a rarity for women in that era.
Her intelligence, independence, and influence made her a respected figure in Edenton society. It was these qualities that enabled her to rally the 50 other women to participate in the Edenton Tea Party. Unlike many women of her time, Penelope owned property in her own name and was no stranger to political discourse. Her leadership gave the protest credibility and sparked international attention.
Today, the Barker House (Penelope’s final home) serves as the headquarters of the Edenton Historical Commission, the starting point for the Edenton Trolley Tour, and the town’s official Welcome Center. Inside, you’ll find artifacts and exhibits that delve deeper into Penelope’s life, the roles women played in colonial America, and how her legacy has inspired generations of civic leaders and activists. Step onto the expansive front porch and imagine the bay bustling with ships arriving from overseas, ships carrying the very goods Penelope and her peers refused to buy. The Welcome Center is free to visit and open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
For an experience that brings things full circle, stay in the Penelope Barker Suite at Inner Banks Inn. This spacious, thoughtfully appointed suite captures the elegance of the era while offering modern comforts, making it a favorite among guests seeking a romantic or historically inspired stay.
Step Into History with Walking Tours of Edenton
Once you’ve explored the Barker House, the history of Edenton continues just steps away. One of the best ways to experience the town’s colonial charm is on foot, through a mix of self-guided strolls and docent-led walking tours.
For just $2 per person, the Historic Edenton State Historic Site (108 N Broad St) offers guided walking tours of the area’s most important historic sites, including the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse (117 E King St), one of the oldest courthouses still in use in the United States, and the historic home of James Iredell (107 E Church St), built in 1773.
Just around the corner, the Cupola House (408 S Broad St) stands as a rare example of Jacobean architecture in the South. Built in 1758, its gardens and preserved rooms offer a glimpse into the grandeur of colonial Edenton.
Prefer to explore on your own? Pick up a self-guided tour map at the Visitor Center or hop aboard the Edenton Trolley for a narrated ride past the Roanoke River Lighthouse, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, and stately waterfront homes. If you’re staying with us, make the most of your stay with our Historic Tour Bundle, an easy way to enjoy some of Edenton’s most memorable guided tours, with the option to add a picnic lunch for a perfect day of discovery.
Come to Edenton for the Story, Stay for the Hospitality
Walking in the footsteps of Penelope Barker and her peers, you’ll feel the spirit of independence that shaped Edenton centuries ago. From historic homes and guided tours to quiet moments on the bay, every part of your visit tells a story.
Book your stay at Inner Banks Inn to experience this history firsthand. Enjoy comfortable rooms across five historic buildings, a hearty breakfast each morning, and the charm of one of North Carolina’s most storied towns just outside your door.
