A storybook trail in the park-like setting around the Evansville State Hospital is telling a new story: its own.
Since 2012, pages from storybooks have decorated the stands on a walking trail along Administration Drive, building a story as walkers pass by. Pages are swapped out monthly, but since 2025, stands have been devoted to sharing the mental facility’s milestones to celebrate its 135th anniversary last year.
Evansville State Hospital Superintendent Jeff Wedding says linking up with the trail to tell the facility’s story felt natural. “Many in our community, myself included, use the Trail with a Tale as a means to focus and reflect while taking a walk in nature,” he says.
In addition to promoting literacy, the trail — a partnership of the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library and Altrusa International — boosts engagement and creativity among walkers traversing the approximately 0.2-mile path on the hospital’s 88 acres.
“We take great pride in maintaining this state land and welcoming the community to enjoy our grounds alongside our patients on their recovery journey,” Wedding says.
The walking path running through the Trail with a Tale recently was paved as part of a parks project. Until construction is complete, the State Hospital placards will remain displayed.
