(L-R): President Morley Mays, Dr. Troy M. Thompson, Elsie S. Thompson, Horace E. Raffensperger
In 1965, Elizabethtown College nearly doubled its campus size following a generous gift from Dr. Troy M. Thompson and his wife, Elsie S. Thompson. A long-time physician for the Athletic Department and the eventual namesake for Thompson Gym, Dr. Thompson deeded his 110-acre farm to Etown.
A more than 50-year dream to construct a physical education building on campus became a reality on Sept. 17, 1968, with a groundbreaking ceremony led by Etown President Morley J. Mays.
The Alumni Physical Education Center, later known as Thompson Gymnasium, officially opened on Jan. 7, 1970. The hexagonal building covering over an acre of land, instantly transformed the campus and has served Etown well ever since.
Today, with a capacity of 1,000 spectators, Thompson Gym is home to Elizabethtown College Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming and Wrestling. The facility contains two auxiliary courts for practice and intramural sports, while also housing the Alumni Pool, six locker rooms, an athletic training room, and a weight room.
Discover more stories that tell Etown’s rich history as we celebrate 125 years at etown.edu/125.