The Old Well, at the heart of campus, is the iconic visual symbol for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The scene of wedding proposals, graduation photos and treasured Carolina traditions, the Old Well sits on the site of the primary water source for the University’s first 100 years.
In 1897, the well was given its present decorative form at the direction of President Erwin A. Alderman, who described his beautification project as largely derived from the Temple of Love in the Garden of Versailles.
In 1954 the well was given added beauty with brick walks, plantings, and benches. Students have a Carolina tradition to drink from the Old Well on the first day of classes to bring good luck — and good grades.