National Wrestling Hall of Fame

America’s shrine to the sport of wrestling, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame was founded as a nonprofit organization in 1976 to preserve wrestling history, recognize extraordinary achievement and inspire greatness.

The Vision of the Hall of Fame is to be the definitive steward and champion of wrestling history and achievement.

The Values of the Hall of Fame are integrity, excellence, collaboration and service.

The Hall of Fame's Strategic Plan for 2025-2028 includes the following goals:

* Steward, champion and communicate “Why Wrestling?”

* Enhance and expand physical and virtual exhibits

* Strengthen and cultivate collaborative partnerships

* Develop operational excellence and assure adequate resources

The museum features the John T. Vaughan Hall of Honors, where the greatest names in wrestling are recognized, including iconic granite plaques presented to Distinguished Members.

The museum has interactive exhibits and electronic kiosks, as well as the opportunity to watch NCAA Championship matches from the 1930s to the present day, and houses the largest collection of wrestling artifacts and memorabilia in the world.

National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum

Named for wrestling legend and Waterloo native Dan Gable, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum features the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame of Iowa, the Alan and Gloria Rice Greco-Roman Hall of Champions and the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. Also on campus is the Dan Gable Learning Center and wrestling room, providing training opportunities for area youth. The museum has interactive exhibits and electronic kiosks, as well as the opportunity to watch NCAA Championship matches from the 1930s to present day.

State Chapters

State Chapters honor and pay tribute to the wrestlers, coaches, officials and contributors who represent the best qualities of wrestling from each state.

Since it began with a banquet in Pennsylvania in 1994, the State Chapter program has grown to 37 states.

In the 31 years since Pennsylvania held that first event, State Chapter programs have honored more than 4,150 individuals.