A HOUSE RESOLUTION Honoring Edenton on its three hundredth Anniversary.
Whereas, Edenton's long history as a colonial port and its more modern role as protector of the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse contribute to the history of the Albemarle Sound and waterways of North Carolina; and
Whereas, Edenton was the home of many black artisans who contributed to its cultural development including the Badham family of African‑American architects, builders, and carpenters: Miles Badham I, his son Hannibal Badham, Sr., and Hannibal's sons Hannibal Badham, Jr., and Miles Badham II, whose designs and constructions stand to this day; and
Whereas, much of Edenton was declared a National Historic District in 1973 recognizing the many historically significant homes and public buildings that stand as authentic examples of over 250 years of architectural progress in America: the 1736 St. Paul's Episcopal Church; the 1758 Cupola House, a National Historic Landmark with national significance; and the 1782 Barker House, long recognized on the National Register of Historic Places; and
Whereas, in 1918 the people of Edenton, fearful that a significant part of our State's heritage was endangered, created an organization which became the "Cupola House Association" to defend against the irrevocable loss of this historically important dwelling, the first such act of preservation by private citizens of North Carolina and one of the first in the nation; and
Whereas, the General Assembly of North Carolina created the Edenton Historical Commission in 1961 as evidence of the unique role Edenton and Chowan County play in the preservation and perpetuation of the history of the colony and the State; and
Whereas, Edenton, on the eve of its 300th Anniversary, was defined by Forbes.com as one of Americas' prettiest towns; thereby, awarding Edenton the honor of being the only 300‑year‑old town in the United States to hold such a distinction. This recognition further proves Edenton has retained its exceptionalism throughout its historically significant 300 years and confirms what residents and visitors alike have long enjoyed; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
SECTION 1.  The House of Representatives honors the memory of the early residents of the Town of Edenton for their contributions to their community, the colony of North Carolina, the State of North Carolina, and the nation.
SECTION 2.  The House of Representatives extends sincere good wishes to the current residents of the Town of Edenton and Chowan County on the occasion of their 300th Anniversaries and embraces with enthusiasm the Town's plan to celebrate the occasion throughout 2013. The House of Representatives further acknowledges Edenton's cultural dedication to the preservation of the historic buildings that contributed so much to the development of North Carolina.
SECTION 3.  The House of Representatives equally notes the perpetuation of the memories and stories of the leaders who have made such contributions to the colony, the State, and nation and encourages the citizens of the State to join Edenton and Chowan County in demonstrating respect for and pride in our history and heritage.
SECTION 4.  The Principal Clerk shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the Mayor of the Town of Edenton, the Chair of the Chowan County Board of Commissioners, and the Superintendent of the Chowan County School Board.
SECTION 5.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.