CLARKSVILLE, TN – The City of Clarksville celebrated the opening of a Storybook Trail on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at Bel-Aire Park.
Made possible by the generous funding from the Clarksville-Montgomery County Community Health Foundation, this innovative project combines the joys of exercise, education and art for the community as you walk and read the inspirational story of Wisdom, the oldest documented bird in the world.
The Storybook Trail project, a collaborative effort between the Clarksville Arts & Heritage Council and Clarksville Parks and Recreation, aims to foster a love for reading and physical activity among residents of all ages. This unique trail, located at Bel-Aire Park, provides an immersive literary experience that encourages visitors to explore the outdoors while engaging with captivating storytelling.
The inaugural book featured on the Storybook Trail is "Wisdom," a heartwarming tale written by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Clarksville artist, Kitty Harvill. The story takes readers on an enchanting journey filled with life lessons and memorable characters, inspiring imagination and promoting literacy.
Mayor Joe Pitts expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The Storybook Trail beautifully combines the benefits of exercise and education, encouraging our community to stay active while fostering a love for reading. It is a wonderful initiative that promotes a holistic approach to well-being."
The dedication ceremony, held on Thursday, June 22, was led by Louisa Cook, Chairman of the Clarksville Arts & Heritage Council. The event included a heartfelt performance by local artist Leo Adames, who composed and performed a song inspired by Wisdom’s story.
"We are delighted to see the culmination of our efforts with the unveiling of the Storybook Trail," said Ellen Kanervo, leading the project. "This trail will not only provide a memorable experience for visitors but also contribute to the cultural fabric of our community, promoting literacy, and encouraging an active lifestyle."
The Storybook Trail at Bel-Aire Park is now open to the public, inviting individuals and families to embark on a literary adventure while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. For more information on Tennessee Storybook Trails, visit the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation at https://governorsfoundation.org/.
“Fly, Wisdom, fly high into the sky. Spread your wings out wide, and glide. Go, Wisdom, go, wherever you may roam, until it’s time to come back home.”
-Lyrics from Leo Adames. Song inspired by the book “Wisdom the Midway Albatross”.
About Clarksville Parks & Recreation
Clarksville Parks & Recreation provides a variety of indoor and outdoor programs, facilities, nature activities and entertainment events for people living in the Montgomery County and Fort Campbell area. These free or reasonably priced year-round experiences help residents enhance their health, wellness, and social engagement—resulting in a stronger, better community.
Mayor Joe Pitts speaking at the grand opening of “Bel-Aire Park Storybook Trail Dedication”