The History Behind the Mystery of Skyline Wilderness Park

The park was founded in 1979 on land that once belonged to Napa's historic Asylum for the Insane, now called Napa State Hospital. Before Napa became a hub for wineries, B&B's, and boutiques, it was best known for this institution, which resembled an ornate castle. After opening its doors in 1875, the hospital quickly became overcrowded, exceeding the capacity of the building. Patients farmed the land around the hospital, and this labor was integral to their therapy. Some even built their own homes and lived on the grounds. Scattered about the park are the remnants of this era of Napa's history. This video attempts to place the man-made features evident around the park into a historical context.