Fifty Years Under the Lights: Kimbrough keeps buffalo tradition alive

PHOTO | RIK ANDERSEN

In 1959, Kimbrough Memorial Stadium opened its gates to what would eventually be the epicenter of WTAMU athletics.

As the years progressed, the landscape acclimated to the times and adjusted to the needs of the people.

Now, celebrating over 50 years of dedication, Kimbrough remains an icon for people all over the country.

From the largest stadium in NCAA Division II, to the conference record of 23,276 fans in attendance during homecoming in 2007, the future holds many possibilities for “the brough.”

During the 60’s, cultural climates were more reserved, and the idea of conservatism was more apparent. This essentially led to different types of fans occupying the seats on Friday night.

“You have to understand,” Holly Troth, senior associate A.D., said, “we grew up in different times. People use to go to games in their ‘Sunday best.’ Guys would wear a nice jacket and a tie, and women would wear a dress and high heels.

Now Kimbrough is seeing a different atmosphere; instead of their best attire, people paint up. ”

As the 60’s rolled into the 70’s the country became more laxed. Music legend Willie Nelson held one of his hippie concerts in the bowl of Kimbrough, leaving a trail of wildfire behind him and an environment not suitable for the college lifesyle.

“It was a disaster,” John Hasse, assistant athletic director, said. “The people in charge had to go door to door on campus and ask people to help clean up. People had thrown beer bottles, syringes and mounds of trash on the field.

Definitely one of our more wild times here on campus.”

In the 90’s Kimbrough decided to take a break from WT football, and the administration began leasing it out to CISD.

“We still own the stadium,” Michael McBroom, Director of Athletics, said, “but we lease out the property to CISD for one dollar a year. They keep up with the maintenance, and we partner together to renovate the building.”

Throughout 50 years, the stadium has taken on deteriorating conditions.

“This is a beautiful compound,” McBroom said. “However, it’s in serious need of a face lift. We need new lights, up-to-date concession stands, easier accessibility, better locker rooms and renovated bathrooms. I see this happening in the future, but way down the road.”

PHOTO | LE MIRAGE '61

“When you drive down I-27, especially when the sun is about to set, you can feel a sense of appreciation,” McBroom said.
“I just think it’s an awesome sight that allows you to feel at home. Football is huge in Texas, and it’s huge in the Panhandle. Kimbrough is an icon.

From cultural buffers, Willie Nelson, tore down goal posts, born again football and radical athletics, the Kimbrough Memorial Stadium has stood the test of time.

“Kimbrough is iconic in nature, vast in stature and filled with grandeur,” McBroom said.