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Corbett's Legacy through Physical Spaces
Corbett Field
The first commemoration and recognition of John Corbett's impact at the University of Wyoming was when it was decided to name the University’s football field after John Corbett. In 1922, the first official homecoming game was the inaugural game played on the brand new Corbett Field. This game also served as the mark of the start of the University of Wyoming's now annual Homecoming tradition, welcoming alumni and new students alike. Corbett Field served as the home to the University of Wyoming Cowboys for 28 years, hosting more losses than wins, but the spirit of Cowboy Joe thrived on Corbett Field. The construction of War Memorial Stadium started in late 1949 and was finished in 1950, and it is now home to the Cowboys and endless Poke Pride. Corbett Field is now where the College of Business Center stands, and part of the Wyoming Union parking lot. The space next to the John Corbett Building and just South of War Memorial Stadium is home to the University of Wyoming's powerhouse marching band, Western Thunder, and is often referred to as Corbett Field.
American Heritage Center, Corbett Family Scrapbook, Corbett Family Home during the first official homecoming and inaugural game, 1922
American Heritage Center, A snapshot of the brand new Corbett Field during the the first official homecoming and inaugural game, 1922
The John Corbett Building
​​The John Corbett Building stands as a daily and relied on function in the lives of Undergraduate and Graduate students, furthering their academic careers in Health Science disciplines like Kinesiology and Nursing. The building has stood on campus for more than 30 years. It is a lasting tribute to John Corbett, whose dedication and contribution to the University of Wyoming's development in sports and Health Sciences programs. The John Corbett Building represents more than a physical space for learning and knowledge; it represents how much one individual can have an impact on a University campus.
University of Wyoming, John Corbett Building, 2025
Half Acre Gym
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University of Wyoming, Half Acre Gym, 1925
Wyoming Postscripts Archives, Projection of the "Lifetime" of Half Acre, 1925,
Wyoming Postscripts Archives, Projection of Half Acre, 1925,
Half Acre Gym was originally built in 1925 under the major influence and oversight of the University's renowned "Grand Old Man", John Corbett, who personally oversaw much of the facility's construction and development. From its inception, Half Acre became the proud home of numerous Cowboy and Cowgirl athletic programs, housing one of the school's greatest basketball teams in history. In 1943, the Cowboys claimed a national title while achieving an impressive record of 222 wins against only 44 losses. Additionally, it housed an armory complete with a rifle range and administrative offices for the Military Science program.
Over the decades, Half Acre has evolved to meet changing student needs. Between 2012 and 2014, the facility underwent a transformative 27-million-dollar renovation. More recent upgrades have introduced top-of-the-line fitness equipment for both student and community use, and the building now serves as home to an additional mental and physical health wellness center.
Though the physical landscape of Half Acre has transformed dramatically throughout the years, the building continues to honor John Corbett's enduring legacy. His dedication and contributions to the University of Wyoming’s athletic and educational practices remain integrated into the physical spaces of Half Acre.
University of Wyoming, Modern day Half Acre Gym, 2025
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