This massive, imposing stone structure stands as one of the most prominent examples of gothic architecture in America and is widely considered a hotbed for paranormal activity. Its sheer scale and isolation within the West Virginia hills make it an ideal, eerie stop for a deep-autumn road trip.
The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (TALA) was a psychiatric hospital located in Weston, West Virginia, and it has previously been known by other names, such as West Virginia Hospital for the Insane and Weston State Hospital. The asylum was open to patients from 1864 until 1994. After its closure, patients were moved to the new William R. Sharpe, Jr. Hospital in Weston, named after William R. Sharpe Jr., a member of the West Virginia Senate. The hospital reopened as a tourist attraction in March 2008.
Read more on WikipediaDid a 90 minute tour with my daughter. The weather was atrociously hot, but this was a bucket list check off for us both and she earned this trip by scoring straight A's this entire school year. Our tour guide was phenomenal. It was a perfect mix of paranormal and historical information. Our guide was incredibly passionate about the asylum's history and sharing phenomenal evidence that's been gathered regarding paranormal activity. What an absolute beautiful structure. Glancing off to the left, the dilapidated tuberculosis hospital is a great example of how they really don't build them like they used to. The stone work, the architecture, the woodwork that lines the halls of this haunting place is breathtaking and I really wish I had taken the architecture tour! All of the employees were tremendously informative and helpful. The museum was also so well put together with details, items you can see and pictures that collectively feel hauntingly nostalgic. What an amazing experience all around and a must see in your lifetime. My 6th grade history teacher told us the importance of learning history is so we don't repeat the same mistakes and that's why everyone should walk through this facilities and learn the history of our country at some point in their life.
Went on a historical tour with a few other members of the Clarksburg WV Photography Club and although I’d been on a tour years prior there was still more to see and learn. They’re doing a great job slowly renovating as much as they have. Still a long way to go and much disrepair, but let’s face it, it definitely adds to the creepiness factor. As if the historical medical details aren’t appalling enough. Our tour guide, Jeremiah, was thorough and informative, as well as entertaining. It always makes for a great tour when the guides themselves are interested in the details as much as we are. Very appreciative of his patience and taking the time to answer even more questions after our tour. Highly recommend!
What an amazing experience! I totally forgot the name of our guide but it was a tall gentleman with a mustache. He was great! I do want to implore the people running this place to put up some more fans throughout the building. I understand that they can't air condition the place but some more fans than just one per floor in the summer would definitely make the experience more enjoyable. Otherwise, superb!