UNC Charlotte Photographs Collection

In 1965, Charlotte College became the University of North Carolina at Charlotte as it joined the University of North Carolina System as its fourth campus. Images in this collection depict the people involved in the university during its subsequent growth, the physical expansion of its campus, and the breadth of events sponsored by the university. Many of the images in this collection were taken by official university photographers, the most recent of whom is Wade Bruton. Historically, university photographers have been part of the unit currently (in 2019) known as the Division of University Advancement, and specifically the office of University Communications. Previously this function has fallen under units called the Office of Information, Public Information and Publications, Public Relations, or the Development Office.

Some images were used in the student yearbooks and student newspapers and were transferred from administrators of those publications. During the period these photographs cover, the student newspaper was known as The Carolina Journal (1965-1982), 49er Times (1982-1989), and University Times (1989-2011). Yearbooks were titled The Si Si (1965), The Nugget (1966), Rogues ‘N Rascals (1967-1981), and The Prospector (1983-1985). Digitized copies of the student newspaper and yearbooks are available online through Digital NC.

Other images were transferred from individuals or specific offices on campus. For instance, some photos relating to planning and building construction came from Facilities Management. According to their website, “The Planning unit within Facilities Management is responsible for the initial planning documents for construction and renovation projects, space allocations and other efforts. Planning includes the real estate, space management, and sustainability offices. [Source: https://facilities.charlotte.edu/our-services/business-related-services/planning-design-and-construction/planning; accessed 30 September 2022].