Hunter Corbett (郭显德) was an American Presbyterian missionary who arrived in Shandong in 1864 and devoted over five decades to education, healthcare, and cultural development in the region.

Founding Schools

In 1866, Corbett established the Presbyterian Church and the first primary school in Yantai, separated into boys’ and girls’ divisions, marking the city’s first modern-style school. This school later evolved into Yantai Yiwenshangzhuan, the predecessor of today’s Yantai No. 2 High School.

His wife, Susan Corbett (苏紫兰), founded Yantai’s first kindergarten. Over the years, Corbett founded more than 40 primary schools across Fushan, Muping, Qixia, Laiyang, Haiyang, Jimo, Jiaozhou, and Yantai, laying the foundation for modern education in Shandong.

Establishing a Hospital

In 1890, Susan Corbett opened a small clinic at Yuhuangding. By 1914, the Yuhuangding Hospital was completed, with Dr. J. E. Eyer as the first director. The hospital consisted of north and south buildings, over 300 rooms, 90 beds, and comprehensive medical facilities. Today, it remains one of Shandong’s largest hospitals.

Establishing a Museum

In 1875, Corbett founded Shandong’s first museum in present-day Fuzhou Street, Yantai. The museum displayed collections of corals, minerals, animals, and plant specimens, serving as an early center for science education and public knowledge.

Recognition

In 1906, Corbett was elected President of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, New York.

In 1914, the Republic of China awarded him the “Double Dragon Jiahe” Medal in recognition of his contributions to education and public welfare.

Hunter Corbett passed away on January 7, 1920, at the age of 85. His funeral in Yantai’s American Cemetery drew thousands of mourners. His tombstone remains preserved to this day, a testament to his lasting influence in the region.