Two hundred and eighteen years ago today, UNC’s first student finished his trek from Wilmington to Chapel Hill — which he completed on foot.
Today, the University celebrates Hinton James Day with events hosted by the General Alumni Association.
C. Hawkins, manager of student engagement for the alumni association, said he hopes today will provide students with an appreciation for Hinton James and the University’s history.
“It’s significant because it shows how old the University is and the great traditions we have,” he said.
“The walk he took from Wilmington to Chapel Hill shows how dedicated he was to attend UNC — he knew it was a special place before anyone else.”
Jay Gaidmore, University archivist, said according to popular legend, James walked the entire way to the University from Wilmington — and then spent a week in bed recovering afterwards.
James entered the University on Feb. 12 1795, with two weeks passing before any other student joined him at the University.
He was an engineering major and one of the first members of the Philanthropic Society. He also helped organize the first literary club and debating society on campus.
James went on to become a successful civil engineer, working on projects along the Cape Fear River.
