Chowan University Athletics

Harry Hill, although never attending Chowan College, was praised for his support of the college, especially for his desire to see the school reopen in 1946 at the end of World War II.

“Harry Hill was instrumental in getting our athletic facilities back up to par when we reopened in ’46,” recalled Dr. Herb Appenzeller, a former Chowan athletic director and coach.  “He was very supportive of our athletic program and our athletes, but his biggest contribution was that he got the people here in Murfreesboro to believe in and support what we were doing. You see, Harry knew everybody and he sold our message to his many friends.” Being in the automotive business for more than 35 years led Hill to develop many friendships in the area.

One thing Hill will long be remembered for was his brief stint as a Chowan football player when he was only in the eighth grade. The coach of Chowan at the time, Melvin Laton, didn’t have enough players to take to a game at Louisburg, so he called Murfreesboro High School and asked for five players. Hill was one of the lucky five.

Hill was married to Helen, his wife of more than fifty years. They have three daughters, Mary Lee Brown, Martha Finder, and Betsy Coltrain.

Hill passed away in February of 2008, leaving his wife and their 3 daughters.