The District Dismantling Racism Team would like to invite you to a special event planned by the Edenton Racial Reconciliation Team.
On Sunday, September 17th, at 2:00 pm, a historical marker will be unveiled, lovingly named the “Lydia Marker” in memory of an enslaved woman named Lydia. The marker, placed on the corner of Broad Street and Freemason Street in Edenton, shares the story of Lydia’s shooting. This act ultimately resulted in the infamous NC Supreme Court ruling “State vs. Mann” in 1829. Supreme Court Judge Thomas Rufin wrote in the court’s decision, “Slave owners had absolute authority over their slaves and could not be found guilty of committing violence...” Ultimately, this decision further outraged abolitionists and was used by them to push for the full emancipation of slaves in the U.S.
Those attending will gather at the “Old Courthouse” at 117 E. King Street in Edenton at 2:00 pm, September 17th. Then, as a diverse community, we will walk to the new marker as it is unveiled in the approximate place of the home where Lydia was shot.