Oral Histories

“One of the most difficult times I had was looking [after] and protecting teachers. I felt like that was my job. Man, you know, teachers need to have some independence to be able to do what they need to do, and I let them know that I was going to protect them. That’s why teachers came to me when I…

This interview is part of a project conducted by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill graduate and undergraduate students in a 2001 oral history course. Topics include Chapel Hill's efforts to end racial segregation in the public schools; the process of creating integrated institutions; and…

This interview is part of a project from 1982 onward that focuses on notable individuals connected to the University of North Carolina.

Edwin Caldwell, Jr.: One of the things that I remember when I was about twelve years old was Frank Robinson- whose father worked for Frank Graham, my grandmother worked for Frank Graham- we used to go and watch the white kids swim in the swimming pool- the one right behind Carmichael Hall.…

Paul Caldwell was the first African-American sergeant, lieutenant, and captain of University Police at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This interview includes Mr. Caldwell’s early life; The evolution of the Northside Neighborhood; Memories of growing up in Chapel Hill; Mr.…

“Take one day at a time, don't plan on tomorrow or next week. God gives you one day at a time you take that one day and you thank him for it.” - Paul Caldwell This interview was conducted for a special edition of the Northside News on education. The interview begins with Mr. Caldwell discussing his…

Paul Caldwell, a lifelong resident of the Northside neighborhood, recounts his and his family’s educational experiences growing up. His early school memories include receiving used textbooks from Chapel Hill High School, fond memories of his teachers, and being raised by the Northside community.…