Hey, it’s no secret that we’re surrounded by water.
But it’s kind of an amazing thing when you think about it.
If you’re a boater, such thoughts can be off the charts.
So what could be better than tooling around on the water?
Well, the last few years have seen a rise in popularity of hitting the road. And you know I don’t mean that paved highway.
Short journeys around familiar areas are fine. You’re close to home and other amenities if there is any kind of issues.
But why not explore the world of nearby waters and the things their shores have to offer?
For history buffs, such trips are a no-brainer.
Consider heading to the historic North Carolina town of Edenton, located where the Chowan River meets the Albemarle Sound on Edenton Bay in the northeastern corner of Virginia’s neighbor to the south.
Getter there is a relaxing trip along some of the most beautiful parts of the Intracoastal Waterway. At the start, let’s say the mouth of the Elizabeth River – things might take a little longer because of the Great Bridge Locks and three short drawbridges to its east.
From there it’s smooth motoring along the Northwest River into Currituck and then Albemarle sounds.
Edenton’s real close at that point – about 90 miles south of Norfolk.
The trip could be a tough one if a one-day plan is what you’re looking at. So plan a long weekend, or maybe more.
Because there’s plenty to see.
Edenton is a historical gem if ever there were any.
The town was incorporated in 1722 after being explored by some of the Jamestown settlers in 1658.
Now has just a little more than 5,000 residents, Edenton was labeled as a European settlement and called “The Town on Queen Anne’s Creek” in 1712.
It had a few other names until 1722, when it was renamed Edenton, in honor of Governor Charles Eden, who had died the same year.
At the time, it was the state’s busiest harbor. But things slowed in Edenton with the opening of the Dismal Swamp Canal in 1805. Many shipments of goods were diverted from the Chowan River to quicker ways to get products to the north.
It’s past if part of our country’s history and the Edenton name was well known outside the state.
Resident James Iredell was appointed to the first U.S. Supreme Court by George Washington. Iredell was only 38.
And later Supreme Court Justice James Wilson signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
A group of Edenton residents, spearheaded by Penelope Barker, signed a petition to boycott European teas – actually holding the Edenton Tea Party in support of Boston in 1774.
Visitors can also tour the home of Harriett Jacobs, who wrote “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.” Now considered an American classic, the book was written using the pseudonym Linda Brent before being published in 1861.
Prior to, and during, the Civil War, some Edenton residents played big roles in helping slaves escape to the north.
While things changed over the years, Edenton’s charm remained constant.
It was once called “The South’s Prettiest Town.”
Large, Victorian-style homes still fill most of the downtown area where the Edenton State Historical Site tour begins.
If you are there on a Sunday and want to attend a service, Edenton Baptist Church is a beautiful site. It was built in 1817.
And if you are a baseball fan and you go to Edenton during the summer, you’ll be hitting a home run.
The Edenton Steamers play at one of the most unique and oldest wooden stadiums in the country in Hicks Field. The complex, built in 1939, has seen a few renovations over the years. It is North Carolina’s oldest remaining wooden grandstand park of its type.
The place was once home to minor and semiprofessional baseball leagues, but now is part of a league that features some of the country’s best collegiate players.
Just like with our trip to Cape Charles on Virginia’s Eastern Shore several weeks ago, if you have a vessel in which you can overnight, you’re all set. Otherwise make plans for a hotel or bed-and-breakfast so you’re not in a rush.
Downtown is a wonderful walking area and there are several restaurants. Edenton Marina and Edenton Harbor are good places to moor.
For a nice break during your venture south or return north, stop at Coinjock Marina for fueling and a great meal.
And, as always, make sure all of your vessel’s required Coast Guard safety equipment is in working order.
To read more of my work, go to: leetolliveroutdoors.com
