Iconic Pirate History
Explore ECU’s Iconic Pirate Landmarks
Welcome to East Carolina University — home of Pirate Nation and a campus rich with landmarks that blend our storied traditions, bold pirate identity, and commitment to student success.
As you make your way through ECU, you’ll encounter symbols that go beyond scenery — each one is a meaningful piece of our university’s legacy:
These landmarks do more than decorate our campus — they connect generations of Pirates through shared experiences, inspire pride, and remind us that ECU is more than a place — it’s a legacy.
Chart your course. Discover the icons. Live the Pirate life.
⚓ The Cupola – a symbol of ECU’s rich educational history, the Cupola is a cherished tradition on campus. According to legend, if you walk under the Cupola , you will not graduate in four years.
🏛️ The Arches of the Old Cafeteria Complex – Now a hub for student success, the Old Cafeteria Complex is one of ECU’s original four buildings. As its name suggests, it once served as the university’s first dining hall. Enter through the north entrance to find the original fireplace on the first floor – a spot that, according to legend was a favorite romantic gathering place for couples in ECU’s early days.
🌊 Wright Fountain – a focal point of ECU’s Main Campus, the Trustees fountain is a cherished symbol of the university’s history. Originally built in 1932, it was rededicated during ECU’s centennial celebrations in 2009.
📸 The ECU Sign by the Student Center – You can spot them in our logo, on flags, on T-shirts, and even outside the Main Campus Student Center – the bold ECU letters symbolize Pirate Nation pride. These iconic letters welcome Pirates to campus and make for the perfect selfie spot. From an aerial view, the residence halls Cotten, Fleming and Jarvis form the letters ECU on the Main Campus skyline!
🎓 The East Carolina University Entrance Sign – Welcoming Pirates to Main Campus, the East Carolina University sign marks the transition from downtown Greenville. Beginning as an all-female teachers training school in 1907, ECU has played a significant role in Greenville’s history. It wasn’t until 1932 that male students were first admitted to the school.
🦜 Sir Vere the Pirate – ECU’s beloved mascot, PeeDee the Pirate, was named after the Pee Dee River, which flows from the North Carolina mountains into South Carolina. While ECU adopted the Pirates nickname in 1934, the mascot wasn’t officially name until 1983. (Another popular pirate, Sir Vere, keeps watch on the Main Campus Mall)