The founding of a great American university can be told in great detail by using primary documents, such as journals, letters, government documents and images. This particular site tells the story of the University of North Carolina during the period 1776 to 1875, and it is part of their "Documenting the American South" series of online exhibits and collections. The site covers topics like student life, town and gown relations, the institution's history during the Civil War, and the growth of campus. Users shouldn't miss the background essays from Professor James L. Leloudis and librarian William R. Burk. Visitors can then click on over to one of ten sections that include "Curriculum", "Faculty", and "Town and Gown". The "Town and Gown" area is quite fascinating as it includes letters from tavern keepers near the institution and the world of nearby boarding houses. The site also includes a timeline of the period, a bibliography, and an advanced search option.