Sunset Park along SE Riverside Dr. Evansville's Riverfront once was the hub of the city's commercial activity, but residents soon recognized its recreational possibilities. In 1850, a newspaper suggested that the delightful tract of land along the river be converted into a public park, and by the early 20th century, the vision had become a reality. Offering a magnificent view of the setting sun, the newly landscaped park was aptly named Sunset Park. An added amenity was a Japanese-style shelter house, which was constructed in 1913. Now commonly known as the Pagoda, it featured a roof garden, cupola bandstand and public restrooms. (http://historicevansville.com/site.php?id=sunsetpark) In 1913, the $15,000 Sunset Park Pavilion opened. The concrete structure with open-air views of the Ohio River and upper story with a promenade and bandstand area were an immediate success as the hub of activity for Sunday afternoon picnics and concerts. Its popularity continued until the historic flood of 1937 left it buried in mud. The building was abandoned and fell into severe disrepair for decades. In 1990, the Vanderburgh County Commissioners and the Evansville Convention and Visitors Bureau allocated $1,475,000 to renovate the building for its offices and Visitors Center. [It reopened as such in 1996.] (https://www.visitevansville.com/evansville-visitors-center-pagoda).