The 1718 House – Mr Ogilby’s Tavern
A new book that examines the early history of Edenton has recently been published
by the Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation. The book, Edenton’s 1718 House, Mr.
Ogilby’s Tavern, explores possible original sites of Edenton’s 1718 house, the
oldest known house in North Carolina. Based on dendrochronology, the structure
was constructed of timber cut after the growing season of 1718. The authors
theorize that considering the proviso that a 20’ by 15’structure be built on a
granted lot within one year to establish ownership of the lot, that they might be
able to limit the number of possible construction sites by eliminating those lots that
escheated for not fulfilling that requirement. Co-author Mike Marshall’s extensive
research on Edenton’s first deeds, that he shares with the reader in an appendix,
allowed the authors to narrow the search to five lots along East Water Street, which
lots they explore in detail. In the process, they open a window into life along
Edenton’s waterfront during the first years of settlement. They also discuss the
structure itself, including some of the changes that were made as the house
evolved, and how those changes might relate to known activity on what is believed
to have been its original site.
A limited number of these books are available now at the Museum of the
Albemarle’s Museum Gift Shop at 501 South Water Street, Elizabeth City, NC. To
purchase the book, visit in person or call 252 331-4026. Shipping is available. The
book will be available on a future date at the Barker House in Edenton.
If you visit in person, take the opportunity to view the exhibit “Crafted From
Wood.” The Cupola House Association lent one of the Francis Corbin armchairs
recreated by master cabinetmaker Don Jordan for the first year of this three-year
exhibit. An upcoming catalog of the exhibit will feature the chair and is expected
to be available in late 2025 or early 2026.
–Tom Newbern