The Carolina Inn

Built in 1924 by John Sprunt Hill - distinguished alumnus, successful businessman and University trustee - the Inn's original concept was "to provide for the special wants and comforts of the University alumni... and University visitors". In 1935, Hill donated the Inn to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with the stipulation that after meeting expenses, profits from the Inn were to be used for "the maintenance and support of the University library, and especially for the support of the collection of books and papers known as the North Carolina Collection". Mr. Hill's wishes are still carried out today as the Inn returns its profits to the University to support the University library. The Inn is a beautiful and well-known icon on the UNC campus in downtown Chapel Hill that architecturally represents both the colonial and antebellum South. The 1924 design incorporates late 18th century elements from George Washington's Mount Vernon, particularly the two-story portico and cupola on the original Cameron Avenue façade, and early 19th elements from Richland, a plantation house in Louisiana. The Richland elements include the familiar hipped-gable brick end walls with integral flat double chimneys above a central demi-lune window. Home to the Crossroads Bar and Restaurant as well!