50 Facts About North Carolina Tar Heels

North Carolina: The Tar Heel State

North Carolina, often called the Tar Heel State, is a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its early days to its modern achievements, North Carolina has a lot to offer. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this incredible state.

1. North Carolina became the 12th state in the United States in 1789 and is known by several nicknames, including the Tar Heel State and Old North State.

2. As of July 2015, North Carolina had a population of 10,042,802. The state capital is Raleigh, and the largest city is Charlotte.

Geography and Regions

North Carolina's diverse landscapes range from mountains to coastal plains, each offering unique attractions and natural wonders.

3. North Carolina is bordered by four states: South Carolina to the south, Georgia to the southwest, Tennessee to the west, and Virginia to the north. The state also borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

4. North Carolina is divided into three main regions: the Appalachian Mountains in the west, the Piedmont region in the middle, and the coastal plain in the east. Each region offers unique landscapes and attractions.

Early Inhabitants and European Settlement

The history of North Carolina is deeply rooted in its early inhabitants and European settlers who shaped the state's development.

5. The earliest inhabitants of North Carolina were Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Woodland, and Mississippian tribes. These tribes played a significant role in the state's early history.

6. Europeans first arrived in North Carolina in the 1500s. The area became a British colony and later one of the original 13 colonies. During the American Revolution, North Carolina was a key player, and it seceded from the Union in 1861 to join the Confederate States of America.

Unique Nicknames and Industries

North Carolina's unique nicknames and industries have contributed to its identity and economy.

7. The nickname "Tar Heel State" originated from the state's early history of producing tar, pitch, and turpentine from longleaf pine trees. Workers who collected sap barefoot were called "tar heels," a term initially derogatory but later adopted with pride during the Civil War.

8. North Carolina is the leading producer of sweet potatoes in the United States. In 2021, over 1.8 billion pounds of sweet potatoes were harvested, accounting for more than half of the country's production.

Natural Resources and Attractions

From emeralds to Christmas trees, North Carolina's natural resources and attractions are both plentiful and unique.

9. North Carolina is famous for its emeralds, with the state producing some of the world's most valuable emeralds. The Carolina Emperor, a 310-carat uncut emerald, was discovered in North Carolina and sold for $1.65 million at an auction in 2010.

10. Tobacco has been a significant crop in North Carolina for centuries. The state is home to many tobacco companies, including RJ. Reynolds Tobacco Company, which produced the famous Camel cigarettes.

11. About 20% of the US fir trees used for Christmas trees are grown in North Carolina. These trees are primarily cultivated in the western mountain region and take around 15 years to mature.

Historical Sites and Legends

North Carolina's rich history is filled with fascinating sites and legendary figures.

12. Chimney Rock State Park, located in western North Carolina, was privately owned by the Morse family until 2007 when it was sold to the state. The park features a 315-foot-tall monolith known as Chimney Rock and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

13. The infamous pirate Blackbeard haunted North Carolina's coast for years before being killed in 1718 by British naval forces. Blackbeard's legacy continues to fascinate people, and his story is an integral part of North Carolina's folklore.

Contributions to Music and Culture

North Carolina has made significant contributions to music and culture, producing talented individuals and iconic traditions.

14. North Carolina has produced more American Idol finalists than any other state, reflecting the state's rich musical heritage and talent pool.

15. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has had several Nobel Prize winners among its alumni and faculty. This prestigious university is also known for producing numerous Rhodes scholars and Pulitzer Prize winners.

Education and Innovation

North Carolina is home to some of the nation's top educational institutions and research centers.

16. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was founded in 1789 and is the first public university in the United States. It has a student population of around 30,000 and is part of the 17-campus University of North Carolina system.

17. The Research Triangle, located in the Piedmont region, is an area where three major universities meet: North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This region is a hub for research and innovation.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife

North Carolina's diverse ecosystems are home to a wide range of wildlife and natural wonders.

18. Fossils of three different species of dinosaurs have been found in North Carolina, including two duck-billed vegetarian dinosaurs and one large carnivore. These discoveries highlight the state's rich paleontological history.

19. North Carolina is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, raccoons, sea turtles, salamanders, ospreys, and cardinals (the state bird). The state boasts over 300 species of trees and nearly 3,000 types of flowering plants.

20. Forests cover nearly 60% of North Carolina, making timber a significant natural resource. The state is one of the largest producers of furniture in the country, thanks to its abundant timber resources.

First Flight and Inventions

North Carolina is known for its pioneering spirit, from the first flight to iconic inventions.

21. North Carolina is famous for being the site of the first successful flight of a mechanically propelled airplane. On December 17, 1903, the Wright Brothers successfully flew their aircraft at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This historic event marked a significant milestone in aviation history.

22. The first Krispy Kreme Doughnuts store was opened in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in 1937. This iconic doughnut chain has since become a beloved brand around the world.

23. The first Pepsi was created and served in New Bern, North Carolina in 1898. Caleb Bradham, the founder of Pepsi, initially called the drink "Brad's Drink" before renaming it Pepsi-Cola in 1898.

Sports and Recreation

North Carolina's love for sports and outdoor activities is evident in its many achievements and attractions.

24. North Carolina is home to the first miniature golf course, which was established in Fayetteville. This unique attraction has been entertaining visitors for decades.

25. Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Fayetteville, North Carolina on March 7, 1914. This historic event marked the beginning of Ruth's illustrious baseball career.

Art and Culture

North Carolina's contributions to art and culture are both significant and diverse.

26. North Carolina is home to the first state art museum in the country, located in Raleigh. The North Carolina Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world.

27. Cabarrus County was the site of the first gold rush in America. In 1799, a shiny nugget was discovered in Little Meadow Creek, marking the beginning of the gold rush era in North Carolina.

28. The first Vick’s VapoRub was first sold in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1905 by the Richardson-Vicks company. This iconic cough drop has been a staple in many households for generations.

Food and Retail

North Carolina has given birth to several popular food and retail brands that have become household names.

29. Bojangles, a popular fast-food restaurant chain, originated in Charlotte, North Carolina. The first Bojangles location was opened in 1977 and has since expanded to become a beloved brand across the United States.

30. The first Family Dollar store was opened in Charlotte, North Carolina. This discount retail chain has grown to become one of the largest in the country, offering affordable products to millions of customers.

Iconic Landmarks

North Carolina boasts several iconic landmarks that attract visitors from around the world.

31. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the largest private house in the world, featuring 250 rooms. This grand chateau-style mansion was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s and is now a popular tourist destination.

32. The Outer Banks, a group of islands along North Carolina's coast, are nicknamed the "Graveyard of the Atlantic." This region is famous for its shipwrecks, including the infamous pirate Blackbeard's final resting place.

Racing and Outdoor Adventures

North Carolina's passion for racing and outdoor adventures is evident in its many attractions and activities.

33. North Carolina is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte. This museum celebrates the history and legacy of stock car racing, honoring legendary drivers and teams.

34. Mount Mitchell, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the highest point east of the Mississippi River, standing at over 6,700 feet above sea level. This mountain offers breathtaking views and is a popular hiking destination.

Unique Flora and Fauna

North Carolina's unique flora and fauna add to the state's natural beauty and biodiversity.

35. The Venus flytrap, a carnivorous plant native to North Carolina, is one of the state's unique natural wonders. This plant captures insects using its modified leaves, making it a fascinating specimen for botanists and nature enthusiasts.

36. Parts of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park are located in North Carolina. This national park offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

37. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs through North Carolina, is a 469-mile scenic road that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. This parkway offers breathtaking views and is a popular destination for road trips and outdoor activities.

Weather and Natural Phenomena

North Carolina's weather and natural phenomena can be both beautiful and challenging.

38. North Carolina is one of the top three states hit by hurricanes. The state's coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to these storms, which can bring significant damage and disruption.

39. The Fontana Dam, located in western North Carolina, is the tallest dam on the East Coast, standing at 426 feet tall. This dam is part of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and provides hydroelectric power to the region.

Waterfalls and Scenic Spots

North Carolina's waterfalls and scenic spots offer stunning views and outdoor adventures.

40. North Carolina is home to over 300 waterfalls, mostly located in the western part of the state. These waterfalls offer stunning scenery and are popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

College Towns and Traditions

North Carolina's college towns are vibrant and full of traditions that add to the state's charm.

41. Chapel Hill, home to the University of North Carolina, is a vibrant college town with a lively downtown area. Franklin Street, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, is a hub of activity and entertainment.

42. The North Carolina Tar Heels basketball team, part of the University of North Carolina, has a storied history. The team has won five national titles and has a long-standing rivalry with Duke University. The Tar Heels are known for their passionate fans and iconic traditions, including the "Tar Heel Born" fight song.

University Traditions and Achievements

The University of North Carolina's traditions and achievements are a source of pride for the state.

43. The Old Well, a symbol of the University of North Carolina, is a fountain located on campus. According to tradition, a sip from the fountain on the first day of class guarantees straight A's for the semester. While this may be a myth, it adds to the rich folklore surrounding the university.

44. Research Triangle Park (RTP) is a major hub for research and technology in North Carolina. Located in the Piedmont region, RTP is home to numerous tech companies, research institutions, and universities, making it a significant economic driver for the state.

Tar Heels Basketball Legends

The University of North Carolina's basketball team has produced many legendary players and unforgettable moments.

45. The University of North Carolina basketball team has several iconic traditions. After each game, whether winning or losing, the fans sing the school's Alma Mater, "Hark the Sound," which ends with the beloved fight song "Tar Heel Born." The team's rivalry with Duke University is legendary, with students often celebrating wins by rushing Franklin Street in downtown Chapel Hill.

46. Joel Berry II, a junior guard for the Tar Heels, has emerged as a leader on the team. Despite playing with two injured ankles, Berry has been instrumental in the team's success, shooting 44% from the field and 39% from three-point range.

47. Theo Pinson, a junior forward for the Tar Heels, has contributed significantly to the team's offense and defense. With 6.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, Pinson is a versatile player who has helped the Tar Heels achieve several victories.

48. The University of North Carolina has produced many legendary basketball players. A recent ranking by 247 Sports identified the top 100 players in UNC basketball history, considering factors like collegiate performance, peak season, and overall contribution to the team. This list includes iconic players like Michael Jordan and Dean Smith.

Musical Heritage

North Carolina's musical heritage is rich and diverse, influencing genres and artists worldwide.

49. Earl Scruggs, a renowned Bluegrass banjo player from Cleveland County, is known for his unique three-finger picking style known as Scruggs Style. This style has influenced generations of musicians and remains an integral part of American music heritage.

Historical Significance

North Carolina's history is filled with significant events and milestones that have shaped the state and the nation.

50. North Carolina's history is rich and diverse, from its early Native American inhabitants to its role in the American Revolution and Civil War. The state has been home to numerous historical events, including the Wright Brothers' first flight and the discovery of gold in Cabarrus County. These events have shaped the state's identity and continue to fascinate people around the world.

Celebrating North Carolina's Rich Legacy

North Carolina, with its storied past and vibrant present, offers a treasure trove of fascinating facts. From the first flight at Kitty Hawk to the birthplace of Pepsi, the state has left an indelible mark on history. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the first public university in the U.S., stands as a beacon of education and innovation. The Tar Heels basketball team has brought pride and excitement to fans with their numerous national titles and iconic traditions. The state's natural beauty, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Great Smoky Mountains, provides endless opportunities for exploration. Whether it's the rich musical heritage or the culinary delights like Krispy Kreme, North Carolina continues to captivate and inspire. Embrace the spirit of the Tar Heel State and discover its unique charm.