Friends of State Historic Sites Edenton

09/04/2026

08/31/2026

In 1777, John Lewelling was brought to trial for high treason. The first of many trials held for participants in what became known as the Gourd Patch Conspiracy, Lewelling’s trial was a pivotal case for North Carolina’s newly-minted legal system. How would he be sentenced?

This moment has been preserved in 167 documents ranging from depositions, indictments, and warrants, to correspondence and petitions for mercy. Join Historic Edenton State Historic Site as we recreate this trial on November 7 in our event, *Harvest of Dissent: The Gourd Patch Trials of 1777.*

08/17/2026

08/17/2026

Don’t miss this joint collaboration between the Cupola House Association, Edenton Historical Commission, Elizabeth Van Moore Foundation and Friends of State Historic Sites of a Special Fall Speaker Event!!
Free and open to the public!

08/13/2026

Our Third Charity Has Been Chosen!

We are pleased to announce that Friends of State Historic Sites–Edenton will be the third charitable beneficiary of Monte Carlo for a Cause at Edenton Commons.

Friends of State Historic Sites–Edenton works to support the preservation, interpretation, and celebration of the historic places and stories that make Edenton extraordinary.

From helping preserve treasured landmarks to supporting programs that bring local history to life, their work helps ensure that Edenton’s story isn’t simply remembered—it continues to be shared with the generations that come next.

We can think of few organizations that are a more natural fit for a signature event at Edenton Commons. The redevelopment of Edenton Commons is also rooted in the idea that historic places can be preserved while being given new life, new purpose, and new memories.

Friends of State Historic Sites–Edenton joins our other two beneficiaries:

🎓 Edenton-Chowan Educational Foundation
⚾ Edenton Steamers | Edenton-Chowan Community Foundation
🏛️ Friends of State Historic Sites–Edenton

Three organizations. Three different ways of investing in the community we call home.

And one very good reason to go all in.

Monte Carlo for a Cause
December 19, 2026 | Edenton Commons

08/13/2026

We hope everyone has had an enjoyable summer and we look forward to starting up our Homeschool History Day program for the 2026-2027 school year! Our first program will celebrate the history of fishing in northeastern NC, from pre-European contact to early settler traditions. Join us on Thursday, September 3rd to learn, play, and get hooked on history!

07/23/2026

🎉 Please join us in welcoming the 2026–2027 Board of Directors for the Friends of State Historic Sites Edenton (FOSHSE)! 🎉

We're excited to introduce the dedicated volunteers who will help lead our organization over the coming year. FOSHSE's mission is to support the North Carolina State Historic Sites, Edenton through advocacy, education, fundraising, and community engagement, helping preserve and share the stories that make our town so unique.

📸 Pictured (Seated – New Board Members):
✨ Shelagh Hodson
✨ Clara King
✨ Anne Van Benschoten
✨ Mary Roland

📸 Pictured (Standing – Executive Board):
⭐ Mike Jones
⭐ Alison Gottlieb
⭐ Jill Ririe
⭐ Blaine Charak

We're also grateful for the continued service of our returning board members who are not pictured:
🏛️ Camille Ball
🏛️ Cynthia Herlong
🏛️ Susan Inglis
🏛️ Carlette Pruden

And we'd like to extend a warm welcome to our new board members who are not pictured:
✨ Josanna Berkow
✨ Mills Kelly

Together, this remarkable group of volunteers brings a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared passion for preserving Edenton's rich history. We look forward to another exciting year of educational programs, special events, and opportunities to support the North Carolina State Historic Sites in Edenton.

Please join us in welcoming our 2026–2027 Board and thanking them for their commitment to preserving and celebrating our community's historic treasures! ❤️🏛️