But being located on a college campus has had its disadvantages for the cemetery. There have been several incidents of major vandalism in recent years. During a football game in 1985, fans rushing to get good seats for the game parked on the grounds, destroying many of the old headstones. Again in 1997 five grave markers from the 1800s were knocked over and cracked. Yet the Old Chapel Hill Cemetery provides more than simply a place to bury the dead.
Students stroll through the walkways, relax in the gazebo and sit under trees to read.
There is a bit of sad news, though, for those who are dying to secure a spot in the cemetery - all the plots are already occupied or sold. But UNC students don't need to be buried in the Old Chapel Hill Cemetery to show their Carolina spirit. Britt Lake is a sophomore from Miami.