Morris Historical Society Plans Trip To Trans-Allegheny Asylum

MORRISTOWN, NJ – For anyone thinking “been there, done that,” the Morris County Historical Society has an event planned that most have never experienced: A three-day bus trip to the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, West Virginia.

What’s the connection with Morris County’s history? Like Greystone Park, pictured above, this complex was constructed and developed following the same philosophy promulgated by Thomas Story Kirkbride (1809-1883), a physician and advocate for the mentally ill. Both sites included Kirkbride buildings, with the Trans-Allegheny site featuring one of the few remaining intact Kirkbride buildings in America.

The trip is scheduled for April 12-14 (Thursday through Saturday) and includes round-trip coach bus transportation by Panorama Tours from Morristown, two nights’ accommodations at the Stonewall Resort in Roanoke, WV, breakfasts, boxed lunch, and two tours: the History tour of the building’s four floors and medical center, and the Criminally Insane tour of the facilities for patients so classified. Those who wish to can sign up for an optional third, daytime tour: a 90-minute “not-for-the-faint-of-heart” guided Paranormal Tour of “hot spots” on the grounds.

The trip fee is $500 per person for MCHS members and $550 for non-members (both double occupancy). Single occupancy rooms are available for an additional $250. The Paranormal Tour may be added for $25 per person. As space is limited, interested participants are encouraged to reserve early.

For further information on the trip and to RSVP, visit www.MorrisCountyHistory.org or call MCHS at 973-267-3465.