Photo via Wikimedia Commons, public domain
James Iredell House
🌤 Weather at James Iredell House by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42–79 °F | 68–89 °F | 44–82 °F | 34–56 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Edenton, 4 mi away, elevation 10 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏛️ Home of Justice James Iredell — Part of Historic Edenton State Historic Site: the furnished house of James Iredell, whom George Washington appointed to the first United States Supreme Court.
The James Iredell House at 107 E. Church Street in Edenton is part of Historic Edenton State Historic Site, run by NC Historic Sites. It shows the furnished house (dated 1800/1827 by NC Historic Sites) of James Iredell, whom George Washington appointed to the first United States Supreme Court; his dissent in Chisholm v. Georgia (1793) is widely credited with prompting the 11th Amendment. Edenton, incorporated in 1722, was North Carolina’s first colonial capital and the site of the 1774 Edenton Tea Party.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Edenton, NC |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Justice | Appointed to the first U.S. Supreme Court by George Washington |
| Impact | His dissent in Chisholm v. Georgia (1793) preceded the 11th Amendment |
About James Iredell House
James Iredell House in Edenton preserves the home of one of the original justices of the United States Supreme Court — appointed by George Washington in 1790. Iredell, a British immigrant who championed American independence, was instrumental in North Carolina’s ratification of the Constitution. The house is part of Historic Edenton; Edenton was North Carolina’s first colonial capital (NC Historic Sites).
Things to Do
Touring the restored colonial home, learning about the founding of the Supreme Court, walking Edenton’s historic district, and visiting the nearby Cupola House and Chowan County Courthouse.
Insider Tips
Supreme Court justice: James Iredell was one of the first Supreme Court justices — appointed by George Washington in 1790. Edenton: Edenton was North Carolina’s first colonial capital (NC Historic Sites) and the site of the 1774 Edenton Tea Party, a political protest by local women.
Best Time to Visit
Spring/fall: Comfortable touring weather. Summer: Full programming. Year-round: House tours. Winter: Mild coastal winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Edenton Tea Party?
On October 25, 1774, a group of Edenton women signed a resolution boycotting British tea and cloth. British newspapers mocked them, but the Edenton women demonstrated that political resistance included all colonists, not just men. The event is considered a precursor to women’s political activism in America.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Salmon Creek State Natural Area (a short drive away) and Pettigrew State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
⚖️ Visit James Iredell House
Home of James Iredell, one of the first U.S. Supreme Court justices.
Wildlife & Nature
James Iredell House SHS — preserves the home of James Iredell, appointed by George Washington as one of the original US Supreme Court Justices (1790). The historic house and grounds support songbirds in the gardens.
Nearby Attractions
Edenton — adjacent — site of the Edenton Tea Party (1774). Chowan Swamp SNA — nearby.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at James Iredell House
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in all North Carolina state parks as long as they are on an attended leash and under the constant control of the owner.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Attended leash or other restraint no longer than 6 feet required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted at swim areas or in bathhouses
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are strictly prohibited from entering any building, including cabins; no pet-friendly cabin program
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Not all campgrounds allow pets (contact the park office first); pets must be confined to tent or vehicle during quiet hours (10 p.m.-7 a.m.); at Hammocks Beach visitors must arrange their own transportation for pets to Bear Island
Are dogs allowed at James Iredell House?
Pets are permitted in all North Carolina state parks as long as they are on an attended leash and under the constant control of the owner. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via ncparks.gov. More: North Carolina state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
