On October 12, in commemoration of University Day, Wilson Library will host a Carolina History Trivia event and provide a rare opportunity to view two of the oldest and most significant items from the university history collections.

From 11:00-1:00 on October 12, the University Archives will host Carolina History Trivia in front of Wilson Library. Students and others are encouraged to drop by and test their knowledge on the history of UNC-Chapel Hill. Participants will compete head-to-head and have an opportunity to win prizes.

The library will also feature a one-day-only display of two unique artifacts:

The original plaque placed into the cornerstone of Old East on October 12, 1793. This artifact has a direct tie to the ceremony held to begin construction for the university. It also has a fascinating history, disappearing from campus for more than 40 years before being discovered at a foundry in Tennessee and returned to Chapel Hill in 1916. Learn more: https://www.unc.edu/posts/2025/10/03/the-old-east-plaque-once-mysteriously-disappeared/
 
A diploma from UNC’s first commencement, 1798. After opening in 1795, Carolina held its first commencement in July 1798. Seven students earned degrees that day, including Hinton James, the first student to attend the university. The diploma on display was awarded to Adam Springs, a student from Mecklenburg County who was part of the first graduating class. It is handwritten on parchment and signed by several of the early trustees, including William Richardson Davie.
These artifacts will be on exhibit in the Wilson Library main lobby from 9:30-4:30 on October 12.