Plumley Armory

Constructed in 1929, Plumley Armory stands as a significant structure on the Norwich University campus, prominently named in honor of Charles A. Plumley. Charles A. Plumley, an esteemed 1896 alumnus of Norwich University, served with distinction as a U.S. Army colonel, a Vermont representative in the U.S. Congress, and eventually rose to the position of University President, marking a storied career of public service and dedication to the military and educational communities.

Functioning as the vibrant heart of Norwich University's wrestling program, Plumley Armory is much more than a sports facility. It boasts a versatile 4,000-person capacity event space that plays host to a myriad of significant occasions. This includes the intellectually stimulating Todd Lecture Series, which welcomes distinguished speakers from various fields, elegant formal balls that become the social highlights of the academic year, and a range of intramural activities that foster camaraderie and physical fitness among students.

Beyond its event-hosting capabilities, Plumley Armory is a nexus of student activity, catering to the diverse interests and fitness needs of the Norwich student body. Even in the depths of Vermont's winter months, when outdoor activities are limited, Plumley Armory offers an essential refuge for students to remain engaged and physically active. Its facilities are comprehensive, including well-maintained basketball courts and an elevated running track that provides runners with a panoramic view of the activities below. The building also houses locker rooms for convenience and the Goodyear Pool, an NCAA regulation-sized swimming facility, catering to competitive swimmers and offering recreational opportunities.

A standout feature within Plumley is the Stabile Fitness Center, recognized as the largest fitness center on the Norwich campus. This center is furnished with a wide array of fitness equipment, including an extensive collection of free weights, various Nautilus machines designed for strength training, and a multitude of cardio machines to support aerobic fitness. This facilitates a well-rounded fitness regime for the Norwich community, emphasizing physical wellness as a cornerstone of student life.

In 2019, the Plumley Armory etched its name in the annals of military academy history by hosting the All-Academy Championships for the first time. This prestigious event, celebrating its 25th anniversary, brought together the nation's eight service academies in a spirited day of competition, showcasing the athleticism, discipline, and camaraderie characteristic of the country's military educational institutions. The successful hosting of this event underscored Plumley Armory's status as a premier venue capable of accommodating high-profile, large-scale gatherings, further solidifying its place in Norwich University's legacy.