Chapel Hill History: Polk Place
Posted Jul 10, 2014
On May 31, 1847, President James K. Polk arrived in Chapel Hill, the first sitting president to visit the town. Polk was already quite familiar with Chapel Hill. He was born in Mecklenburg County and graduated from UNC in 1818. As a student, he “made an impression less by native intelligence than by the way he applied himself,” according to historian William E. Leuchtenburg. It was a trait that he continued to exhibit as president.
(Chapel Hill Magazine)
Related: Campus Connections
NASA astronaut, UNC grad Zena Cardman begins mission aboard International Space StationIf you look up into the sky at just the right time, you might catch Hampton Roads native Zena Cardman native orbiting by. Aboard the...
Mon Aug 11, 2025A first-of-its-kind garden comes to life at UNC in testimony to NC's Native presence
Lying nestled in the plants and trees across the street from the UNC American Indian Center is a project finally coming to fruition. An American...
Sat Aug 9, 2025
A look into music venue Cat’s Cradle’s storied history
For over 55 years, Cat’s Cradle has been the leading concert venue within UNC’s vicinity, hosting a variety of events including musicians, philanthropic benefits, stand-up...
Sat Aug 9, 2025
A New Bar, ‘Extension’ of Al’s Burger Shack, Is Now Open in Downtown Chapel Hill
Al’s Burger Shack is expanding in Chapel Hill — although, not with another restaurant location. The popular burger joint at 516 West Franklin Street added...
Wed Aug 6, 2025