Join us for a presentation and a walk at Augusta’s Viles Arboretum and learn how we’re lifting the history of the working farm from the Maine Insane Hospital. For more than 140 years our property served as a farm to support the Maine Insane Hospital (later the Maine State Hospital, and eventually the Augusta Mental Health Institute). Patients at the hospital worked the farm and their stories are mostly lost. Thanks to funding from the Maine Trails Bond, we are creating a 1.25-mile accessible trail loop and developing associated programs to support those who will benefit from accessible access to nature. In addition, thanks for funding from the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission, we’re also going to incorporate the stories from the farm and those who worked there in signage along the new trail.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/jane-s-walk-the-lost-story-of-the-maine-insane-hospital-library-farm
Accessibility:
The accessible trail is not completed, so those with mobility issues might want to wait for another opportunity when the trail is done. However, the path is clear and mostly flat. Stops with chairs will be provided and drinks and snacks will be available before and after the walk.
Starting Location:
The education barn at Viles Arboretum. There will be signs. Parking is available on site or directly across Hospital Street in the parking lot at the Eastern campus of the state office complex.
Ending Location:
The education barn at Viles Arboretum.
Augusta, Maine 04330
