Alan Ward, of Trinity, N.C., for his question:

HOW DID NORTH CAROLINA GET THE NICKNAME TARHEEL STATE?

Just about all the states have commonly used nicknames, and most of these are based on familiar characteristics of the individual state. California, for example, is nicknamed "The Golden State," which calls to mind its brilliant sunshine and golden pastures in autumn as well as its years as the center of Gold Rush activity. Ohio is known as the "Buckeye" state because of the buckeye trees which once flourished on its hills and plains.

North Carolina's nickname, "The Tarheel State," is a bit harder to pin down. Some folks say that the name comes from the fact that at one time North Carolina was known for the tar produced in her vast pine forests. Another legend, however, seems to stem from a battle fought during the Civil War. It seems that during one fierce battle, some Confederate troops pulled back from the line of battle, leaving the North Carolinians alone to fight. After the battle the North Carolina troops threatened to put tar on the heels of other troops so that they would stick better in the next fight.

Whatever the case, Robert E. Lee is reported to have said: "God bless the Tarheel boys," and the name just sort of stuck.