The Cupola House Association, Inc

The Cupola House and Gardens, a cherished architectural landmark in Edenton, was on the brink of destruction in the early 20th century. By 1918, the house had fallen into severe disrepair, and news spread that its fine interior woodwork had been sold to the Brooklyn Museum. Faced with the imminent loss of this historical treasure, concerned citizens of Edenton took swift action to save the Cupola House.

Two people standing in a room with furniture.

Cupola House Mission Statement

Preserving the Past, Living in the Present, Ensuring the Future

The Cupola House Association is a non-profit organization existing to preserve the past, live in the present, and ensure the future. The 1758 Cupola House and its heritage gardens exist as a living house museum, thus enhancing an appreciation of our country’s mid-Colonial era to our visitors and local community as well as future generations.

Cupola House Vision Statement

The Cupola House defines the Past, Present, and the Future. We stand with the past to represent the rich heritage of 18th Century America from its early construction to the early years of the Federal Period. Toward that end we have strived to obtain collections and furniture appropriate to that era, as well as honoring the owners of the house and their history. The Cupola House offers a unique view of life during the transition from British sovereignty to American freedom.

We stand with the present as a living representation of the rich heritage of Colonial Edenton, serving to preserve that history for not only our membership, but to all our visitors from near and far. Meticulous upkeep and restoration of the structure and contents, as well as the revered heritage gardens of the property, assure that preservation.

We stand with the future to become the finest house museum in North Carolina with national recognition through funding efforts in the 21st Century, thus enabling the continued addition of collections and exhibits, extended open staffed house, and educational programs for our community and schools. In the next decade we will be the premier destination in Eastern North Carolina through furniture acquisition, unequalled exhibits, collections and documents, as well as a growing endowment to ensure our survival for future generations.

A table with food on it in front of a fireplace.

The Birth of the Cupola House Association, Inc.

A dedicated group of Edenton residents met in Mr. W. D. Pruden’s law office to form an association aimed at purchasing and preserving the Cupola House. This newly formed organization, initially known as "The Cupola House Library and Museum," began soliciting funds from the community. On March 11, 1918, the upper section of the house was purchased by a group of wealthy citizens, marking the first major step in the preservation effort. By April 25, 1918, the association had successfully acquired the entire Cupola House and its property back from the Brooklyn Museum.  These efforts ensured the house's architectural elements were returned and restored, further securing its place in Edenton's history.

Expanding the Legacy

In 1921, the Association secured the remaining land surrounding the Cupola House, allowing it to serve the community in various ways.  For 45 years, the house functioned as Edenton's first public library, as well as a tearoom and museum. During this time, the original interior woodwork, then housed in the Brooklyn Museum, was meticulously recreated, ensuring the Cupola House and Gardens retained its historic charm. The Association's efforts solidified the house’s status as a significant piece of Edenton’s and the nation's colonial history.

A garden with many plants and trees
A white fence with green shutters on the side of it.

Recognition and Growth

The Cupola House and Garden’s importance was further recognized in 1971 when it was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark. Two years later, in 1973, the Cupola House Association, Inc., a name officially adopted in 1970, achieved 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status under the federal Internal Revenue Service Code. This milestone allowed the Association to receive tax-deductible contributions, securing the financial support needed to continue its preservation work. The Association’s creation marked the earliest community preservation effort in North Carolina to save a historic structure.

Commitment to Stewardship

Since its founding, the Cupola House Association, Inc. has remained committed to the stewardship of the Cupola House and Gardens. The Association has overseen the establishment of period-appropriate colonial gardens and the acquisition of period furnishings, including the re-acquisition of some original pieces. Ongoing renovations are conducted regularly to maintain the house and its grounds, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The Role of Membership

The CHA’s work depends heavily on the support of its members. Membership funds are crucial in covering the ongoing costs of maintaining and restoring the Cupola House and Gardens. Those interested in historic preservation are encouraged to consider joining the Cupola House Association, Inc.

Leadership and Vision

A dedicated Board of Directors and Trustees leads the CHA. The current leadership team for 2023–25 includes:

  • Vonna O’Neill, President
  • Samuel Dixon, Vice President
  • Flora Hall Wood Davis, Secretary
  • Richard Mayer, Treasurer
  • Louise Artman, Social Media and Communications
  • Russell Corker, Membership 
  • Michael Tracey, House & Grounds
  • Elizabeth Corker, Events Co-Chair
  • Heidi Nastasi, Events Co-Chair
  • Tom Newbern, Collections
  • Suellen Bloom, Gardens 
  • Martha Smith, Archives
  • Kevin Stevenson, Development
  • Robert Leath, Consultant
  • Donnie Pope, Member-At-Large
  • Susan Nolton, Foundation Liason
A white picket fence and gate in front of a house.

Support the Preservation Efforts

Cupola House Association, Inc. invites you to become a member and join us in preserving one of Edenton’s most treasured landmarks. By becoming a member, you contribute directly to the upkeep and maintenance of the Cupola House and Gardens, ensuring its beauty and historical significance are preserved for future generations.

Enjoy the Serenity of Our Formal Gardens

Nestled in the heart of Edenton, the Cupola House and its formal gardens offer a tranquil escape for both visitors and residents. A stroll through these beautifully maintained gardens provides a refreshing break from the daily hustle and bustle. However, the maintenance of this historic house and its lush gardens comes at a significant cost. Your membership plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts, helping to preserve the Cupola House and Gardens as a peaceful oasis in our community.

A Collaborative Effort for Preservation

The CHA, Inc. operates independently but works closely with the Penelope Barker Welcome Center and The Edenton Historical Commission. Each year, during our Membership Celebration, we appeal to the public to support our preservation efforts. Membership fees provide only a portion of the funds needed to maintain the Cupola House and its formal Gardens. We encourage you to join your fellow community members in safeguarding this 18th-century architectural gem.

A wooden spiral staircase in the middle of an attic.

Sustaining Membership

$40.00 – $1,000.00 — available on subscription
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Convenient Membership Options

Joining the Cupola House Association, Inc. is easy. You can sign up or renew your membership online through our secure payment system. The available membership tiers are:

  • Corbin Circle: $1,000
  • Dickinson Patron: $500
  • Bond Sponsor: $250
  • Friend: $100
  • Family: $70
  • Single: $40

Additional Donation Opportunities

If you’re already a member and wish to further support the Cupola House and Gardens, we gratefully accept donations at any time. Your contributions, in any amount, make a significant impact on our ability to maintain and preserve this historic site. Use the button below to donate.

Join Us by Mail

For those who prefer, memberships can also be submitted by mail. Please send your check, made payable to the Cupola House Association, Inc., too.

Cupola House Association, Inc., Membership Chairman, P.O. Box 311, Edenton, NC 27932.

Be sure to include your name, address, your email address and phone number.

Charitable Trust Giving

Another meaningful way to support the Cupola House and Gardens is through charitable trust giving to The Cupola House Association, Inc. The Cupola House and Gardens is one of North Carolina’s most significant early frame dwellings, and this Association was established to ensure its preservation. By including the Cupola House and Gardens in your lifetime charitable giving plans, you can help protect this unique Jacobean structure for future generations to enjoy and study. If you would like more information or wish to discuss the benefits of charitable trust giving, please contact the Cupola House Association, Inc.

Explore Charitable Giving Options
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