Tourist information

Not only is St. Paul's Episcopal Church on the National Register of Historic Places and the oldest North Carolina church still in operation—but St. Paul's boasts a rich heritage and architectural beauty. With boxed pews, a long nave, a wonderful organ and a stunning stained glass window, our sanctuary is an attraction in its own right. Anyone who likes touring historic sites should add us to your Edenton travel plan. 

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How old is it?

The church was established in 1701, the churchyard dates to 1722, and the building was constructed from 1736–1776. It has undergone two major series of repairs and renovations, which provided its current woodwork, flooring and steeple.  

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What's special about the cemetery?

Our churchyard is teeming with local flora—and figures. Buried here are several activists in the Revolutionary War, including North Carolina's first state governor and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Beneath the shade of giant magnolia trees, you can admire our assortment of 19th and early 20th century grave markers of varying type, material, age, and ornamentation, with artistry displayed by many of the hand-cut markers.

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What else makes it important?

St. Paul's is a landmark in the development of religious architecture in the state. Described by architectural historian Thomas T. Waterman as “an ideal in village churches,” the handsome Flemish bond brick edifice is one of the most important colonial period buildings in Edenton. In fact, in 1856, David Hunter Strother, writing under the name “Porte Crayon,” referred to the church as the “pet” of the town. Taken from Edenton: An Architectural Portrait by Tom Butchko

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