TALA TALES: Thomas Funk

The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, also known as Weston State Hospital or Weston State Hospital for the Insane has a long and tragic history, with a reported ghost population that accurately reflects the violence, anger, sadness, and despair that were surely experienced within its walls over it’s 100+ years in use. But, not every death that occurred in the building has a connected ghost story. I like to include these TALA Tales features on my blog to help spotlight some of the people who made the asylum home and possibly, spent their last moments there. You never know when you’re going to get an EVP, spirit box, or some other type of communication from a previously un-named entity. Plus, I just like to share the stories of the everyday life at the asylum and give remembrance to those who can no longer speak for themselves. Today’s story is a quick, but tragic snapshot into the death of Thomas M. Funk. 

According to a Find-a-Grave researcher, Thomas M Funk was born about 1863 to parents John Nathan Funk and Catherine Cassedy Funk. Thomas was from Preston County, living out at Buffalo, near Jones’ Ridge. In his mid 30′s, Thomas was single and, unfortunately, had a history with mental illness. Once before, he was committed to the Weston State Hospital and was treated. He was deemed cured, and sent home. However, it wouldn’t be too long before his mind would again become agitated and was said to have become violent at times. On May 5, 1898, an article appeared in the West Virginia Argus newspaper that  Funk had been taken to Kingwood by Constables Fried Halbritter and John M. Devall and jailed there for insanity, to await transportation BACK to the Weston State Hospital. A week earlier, he had been arrested and committed by Justice John Carrico of Rowlesburg. 

Thomas was taken to Weston and became a resident of Ward 8. But, on August 11, 1898, tragedy would strike. Thomas would take his own life in the toilet room of the ward that afternoon. He looped a towel around his neck and apparently hanged himself from the towel rack. His body was still warm when found, but unfortunately, he could not be revived. As per custom, an investigation was held and it was deemed that Thomas did in fact take his own life, and no fault was to be found in regards to hospital staff or administration. He was buried in the hospital’s on-site cemetery. It was said that he had no previous suicidal tendencies. 

It’s an unhappy story, with an unhappy ending. However, this story and the fate of Thomas Funk are not unusual. The grand old building has seen a lot of death over the years, from illness to violence to suicide. The next time you’re investigating or simply visiting the haunted and historic Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, take a moment to remember Thomas’ story…and if you find yourself in the area of Ward 8′s toilet room, maybe say hello. You might just get a response. 

Sources:

West Virginia Argus. 05 May 1898. Page 3

Martinsburg Independent. 20 August 1898. Page 3

The Wheeling Daily Intelligencer. 22 August 1898. Page 4

WV State Archives: Thomas Funk Death Certificate

Find-a-Grave

*If you or a loved one has thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself, please dial the new Suicide Hotline at 988. It’s free, available 24/7, and has plenty of caring people willing to talk or text with you.*