In 1774 Penelope Barker led what historians believe to be the first organized and written political action by women in America, “The Edenton Tea Party.” Protesting British taxation Edenton’s 51 patriotic women signed a petition to send to England in support of the Provincial Deputies of North Carolina. It was Published in Williamsburg VA, London’s Morning Chronical & the London Advertiser. Penelope’s home overlooks Edenton Bay, a stalwart reminder of the determination of our colonial women who bravely signed their names to the document declaring, “as we cannot be indifferent on any occasion that appears nearly to affect the peace and happiness of our country.” The house is home to Edenton’s Historical Commission and town’s Welcome Center. A symbol of her town’s historic past: founded in 1712, first capital of North Carolina, and America’s first recorded politically active women and their leader, Penelope Barker.