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'The Hill' is the colloquial name for the location of various academic buildings on the University of Tennessee at Knoxville's campus. It comprises the oldest part of the university, but is actually located at the eastern side of the campus. There are two concentric roads around the Hill. University buildings ring both routes, with Ayers Hall located at the apex. The sweeping lawn in front of Ayers Hall that drops to Cumberland Avenue is the largest open space left on the Hill. Programmatically, the Hill is populated primarily by engineering and science programs. Other university programs, as well as the dormitories and administrative headquarters, are located west of the Hill.
Along with Neyland Stadium and the Torchbearer statue and eternal flame, the Hill is one of the most recognizable symbols of the University.
The Hill was originally known as Barbara Hill, in honor of the daughter of Governor William Blount. Barbara Blount was born on the Hill. During the American Civil War (1861-1864) the Hill was a fortified position southeast of Fort Sanders known as Fort Byington. It played a key role during the Siege of Knoxville.