Relocation to Edenton?

Question

Hi there - I am thinking about moving to Edenton, NC. Does anyone know anything about it other than it's history. I am more interested in culture, restaurants, people, etc

Answer 1

I live in the next county over from Chowan county, where Edenton is located.
This area is pretty rural, but within a 30 min. drive you'll find everything you need.
Edenton itself has a pretty little downtown area with cute shops, a great park for the kiddies, and a marina for passing boaters. There is not really a lot of high end shopping to be found unless you travel 1 to 1 1/2 hours to the Norfolk/ Virginia beach area of VA. You will however find everything a person could want in that area (museums, amusement parks, theatre, broadway shows, opera, headliner acts, etc, etc...pretty much all the perks of a large city). If you live in this area of NC you get used to driving a bit for your culture. The arts in the area surrounding Edenton are definitely on an upturn. There is community theater, arts councils, museums, and a science center for the kids in the Elizabeth City area 30 min. away and more on the way.
Restaurants - not a lot of choice in Edenton,but it is adequate, you won't starve! But again within 30 min. you will find a really good Japanese/sushi restaurant, lots of homecooked american and southern soul food, a carribean reataurant, and some chains such as Applebee's, Ruby Tuesdays, and lots of fast food.
The people here are as friendly as you expect them to be in the South (southern hospitality and all that!) However, I'd say they are fairly guarded with strangers. Unless you make an honest attempt to ingratiate yourself with the community it may take awhile to be accepted by the locals. There are plenty of other transplants since this area is growing pretty quickly so regardless of the old-timers you won't be lonely.
The real estate in Edenton is by and far the best value in the area. Prices have skyrockted in Elizabeth City area but get cheaper and cheaper the further south you go.
All in all I'd say this a great place to live with a family. The pace is slower and the people nicer. There is an endless amount of day trips to take for more excitement. I must admit though I was not a big fan of the area as a teenager. I'm 32 now with children so my priorities have changed!
My family has to move this summer and do not want to go. We find this area to be a perfect mix of small town/rural and, with some driving, big city conveniences.

Answer 2

~~ Though an extremely pretty place Edenton is not a huge town so restaurants are fairly limited and somewhat basic.
I have found a site for you that lists them, addresses and phone numbers:
http://www.visitedenton.com/dining.htmEdenton and Chowan

~~ As for culture Edenton and Chowan county are home to many talented artisans. The Chowan Arts Council hosts Gallery Exhibits monthly as well as events highlighting many cultural experiences.
Found at:
http://www.visitedenton.com/default.asp
And your only about 2 and a half hours from Raleigh; there would be many cultural events pass through there.
Even Rocky Mount (probably your closest larger city) would attract cultural events.

~~ Located where it is on the inner banks region, I suspect the people would be quite laid back, friendly (but private).
I find people that live on islands, close to the water or in small communities are often like that.