Take a stroll around North Carolina, and you’re bound to see the “Tar Heels” logo emblazoned on everything from t-shirts to car bumpers. “Tar Heels” is the proud moniker of students and alumni from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, but it’s more than just a university mascot. A Tar Heel is a nickname for anyone from the state of North Carolina, also known as the Tar Heel State. But where did this distinctive nickname originate?
The story of the Tar Heel nickname is woven into the history of North Carolina, with several compelling versions explaining its beginnings. One popular account traces back to the Civil War. During a battle in Virginia, North Carolina troops found themselves isolated when supporting units retreated. As the victorious North Carolinians stood their ground, Virginians reportedly taunted them, asking if there was “any more tar down in the Old North State.” Quick-wittedly, a North Carolinian responded that Confederate President Jefferson Davis had “bought it all up” to put on the heels of retreating soldiers “to make you stick better in the next fight.” This anecdote highlights the Tar Heels’ reputation for tenacity and sticking to their ground.
Another origin story, perhaps less flattering but equally significant, links the nickname to North Carolina’s vital role in naval supplies. Historically, North Carolina was a leading producer of turpentine, tar, and pitch, essential materials for shipbuilding derived from the state’s abundant pine trees. Workers in this industry, often working barefoot in the sticky pine sap, would inevitably get tar on their heels. Initially, “Tar Heel” was considered a derogatory term, implying a worker of low status engaged in a messy trade. However, much like the Civil War soldiers, North Carolinians embraced the name and transformed it into a symbol of pride and resilience. Legend has it that even Confederate General Robert E. Lee recognized this spirit, famously saying, “God bless the Tar Heel boys.”
The UNC Alumni Association further clarifies this evolution, noting the term’s early association with the “lowly trade” of tar production. However, the Civil War era marked a turning point when North Carolina soldiers proudly adopted “Tar Heels” as an expression of state pride, flipping the insult into an accolade. This sense of identity solidified in the 1880s when the University of North Carolina needed a nickname for its athletic teams. “Tar Heels” was the obvious choice, instantly resonating with the state’s heritage and the fighting spirit associated with the name.
Today, “Tar Heel” is a cherished emblem of North Carolina identity. It represents the state’s rich history, the resourcefulness of its people, and the unwavering spirit demonstrated throughout its past. Whether you’re cheering on the UNC Tar Heels in a basketball game or simply meeting someone from North Carolina, understanding the “Tar Heel” nickname offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Tar Heel State.
