Circa 1765 in beautiful Edenton, NC. Site of famed 1774 Edenton Tea Party. $549,000

In the heart of Edenton, North Carolina—a coastal town overflowing with colonial charm and Revolutionary-era significance—stands one of its most storied architectural treasures: the Charlton House. Built around 1765, this remarkable residence embodies more than two centuries of American history, echoing the spirit of the people who shaped the nation’s earliest ideals. Set on a serene .37-acre parcel and surrounded by the timeless beauty of Edenton’s historic district, the home is not only an architectural gem but a living monument to the town’s proud legacy.

The Charlton House is intimately connected with two notable figures of the Revolutionary period: Jasper Charlton and his wife, Abigail. Jasper was a respected lawyer and an outspoken advocate for colonial rights during a time when tensions with the British Crown were rising. His wife Abigail played an equally compelling role in early American activism. She is believed to have been the first signer of the 1774 Edenton Tea Party resolutions—a bold political statement made entirely by women who opposed British taxation policies. Their spirited stand earned national attention and made Edenton one of the earliest centers of organized female political action in the colonies.

Walking toward the Charlton House today feels like stepping back into this extraordinary chapter of American history. Its handsome exterior, accented by a welcoming covered front porch, reflects the balanced proportions and craftsmanship typical of colonial-era homes. Here, one can imagine conversations about liberty, community, and the uncertain future of the colonies taking place within its warmly lit rooms over 250 years ago.

Inside, the home preserves an exceptional array of original features. Wide plank wood floors are among the first details to catch the eye, their patina reflecting countless footsteps from the 18th century to today. The craftsmanship continues through the elegant chair rails, detailed crown moulding, and beautifully built cabinetry that define multiple rooms. These features are not mere decorations—they are integral pieces of the house’s authenticity, each one speaking to the architectural sensibilities of the pre-Revolutionary period.

One of the home’s standout elements is its collection of fireplaces, all of which are still in working order. Their brickwork, mantels, and surrounding woodwork offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Charltons and the generations who followed. In an era before electricity or central heating, fireplaces were both functional necessities and the heart of family life. Today, they serve as both reminders of the past and sources of warmth and character.

The home’s interior layout includes three comfortably sized bedrooms and three bathrooms, offering a thoughtful blend of historical charm and modern livability. The spacious kitchen combines traditional design elements with updated functionality, making it an inviting space for cooking, gathering, or simply enjoying views of the surrounding property. Built-in bookshelves and a classic corner cabinet add to the home’s charm while providing purposeful storage and display areas.

While the interior reflects its colonial heritage, the exterior grounds further enhance the home’s appeal. The .37-acre property offers a peaceful escape in the midst of Edenton’s historic core. Mature plantings and graceful landscape details add to the sense of timelessness, making the home feel both rooted in the past and perfectly suited for quiet living today.

Edenton itself enriches the Charlton House experience in countless ways. Known for its waterfront beauty, historic architecture, and warm sense of community, the town has long been admired as one of the South’s most picturesque coastal gems. It is also the site of the famed 1774 Edenton Tea Party, an event deeply entwined with the home’s own history. Nearby, visitors will find other 18th-century landmarks, charming streets, and the scenic Albemarle Sound—places that complete the picture of a life lived in an environment rich with culture and heritage.

The Charlton House stands today not merely as a residence, but as a preserved piece of American history—one that honors the individuals who helped shape the early ideals of independence. With its beautifully maintained colonial features, extraordinary backstory, and enviable location, it remains one of Edenton’s most captivating historic homes.