21/10/2026
Parsons State Hospital Day
PSH celebrated its 123rd anniversary on October 19, 2026, with a full day of activities honoring its history, recognizing its employees, and celebrating the people who make the facility such a special place.
The day began with a 5K race that drew 169 participants—the second 5K PSH has hosted and another well-received community event. Staff and attendees then enjoyed a small carnival with games, popcorn, cotton candy, and prizes, plus free snow cones and ice cream from the Froggy and the Whale truck. Lunch was served on the grounds before two special dedications: the opening of the PSH Museum and Chestnut Gardens.
Chestnut Gardens was created as a welcoming space for family visits and as a memorial to the former Chestnut building that once stood on the site. The local Chamber of Commerce joined the ribbon-cutting ceremonies for both the gardens and the museum.
The PSH Museum highlights the facility’s journey since opening on October 19, 1903, when it admitted 110 individuals on its first day. The census peaked at 1,006 in the 1940s. Originally established as a hospital for individuals with epilepsy, PSH has evolved into the treatment and training facility it is today, serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A recognition ceremony followed, honoring the 5K winners, the Employee of the Quarter, and 40 employees with more than 25 years of service—a combined total of 1,344 years and 4 months. The experience and institutional knowledge of these long-serving employees are invaluable to PSH’s legacy. KDADS Secretary Laura Howard and Deputy Secretary Scott Brunner were in attendance along with staff from all four state hospitals.
PSH Day brought together employees, individuals, visitors, and state leadership. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this milestone possible and look forward to continuing to serve Kansans for years to come.
