Early Settlement:

• Weston was originally settled in the late 18th century. It was initially part of the larger area of Lewis County and became an important settlement in the western part of the state. Its strategic location along the West Fork River made it an ideal spot for early settlers who needed access to water and fertile land for agriculture.
• The town is believed to have been named after John Weston, an early settler who contributed to the establishment of the area. By the early 1800s, Weston had begun to grow as a small community.

Growth and Development in the 19th Century:

• Weston’s location along the West Fork River was key to its early growth. The river provided transportation for goods and a water source for farming. By the mid-1800s, the town had grown into a small but thriving community with a population that was steadily increasing.
• A major development that spurred Weston’s growth was the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad, which reached the town in 1856. This connected Weston to larger transportation networks, facilitating trade and commerce, and led to the development of the town as a regional transportation hub. The railroad made Weston more accessible and contributed to its status as an important location for the timber industry, which flourished in the region.

The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum:

• One of the most significant historical landmarks in Weston is the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, which opened in 1864. It was originally designed as a state-of-the-art facility for people with mental illnesses, and it became one of the largest and most advanced psychiatric hospitals of its time. The asylum operated for over 130 years before it closed in 1994.
• The asylum is a focal point of Weston’s history and has become a symbol of both the town’s historical significance and its role in mental health care during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The building itself is a remarkable example of Romanesque Revival architecture, and today it serves as a major tourist attraction, offering tours and events to educate visitors about the history of mental health care and the asylum’s past.

The Civil War and Its Aftermath:

• During the Civil War, Weston was located in a border region, with both Union and Confederate forces moving through the area. However, Weston itself did not see large-scale battles. Despite this, the war had an impact on the town’s economy and infrastructure. Many residents of Weston supported the Union, and the town became a Union stronghold in a divided state.
• After the war, the town saw continued growth, especially as timber and coal industries began to expand in the region. The population increased, and Weston continued to develop as a center of commerce, transportation, and industry.

20th Century:

• Weston, like many towns in West Virginia, experienced both growth and decline throughout the 20th century. The timber industry, once a primary economic driver, began to diminish, and the decline of railroads in the mid-1900s also affected the town’s economy.
• However, Weston remained a key hub for the region, and in the mid-20th century, the development of the Stonecoal Lake and Sutton Lake areas provided new recreational opportunities, attracting visitors to the area for boating, fishing, and camping.
• The town’s economy shifted toward government services, healthcare, and small businesses. Despite economic changes, Weston remained an important part of Lewis County.

Present Day:

• Today, Weston is a small, historic town with a population of around 4,000 people. The town still retains much of its historical charm, with numerous 19th-century buildings, including the courthouse, churches, and homes. The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is perhaps the most famous landmark, drawing visitors interested in both its architectural significance and its history.
• Weston also serves as a center for local government, education, and commerce in Lewis County. The town is home to Weston State Hospital, though the original asylum building no longer functions as a psychiatric institution.
• The town is also part of the Mountain Lakes Region, surrounded by natural beauty, which includes outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and boating at nearby lakes.

Cultural Significance:

• Weston has long been an important cultural and historical center for the region. It was once the site of the West Virginia State Fair and has maintained a connection to traditional Appalachian culture through festivals, arts, and local traditions.
• The town also celebrates its history with events such as the Weston Christmas Parade and other community-centered activities that highlight the town’s sense of heritage and pride.

Conclusion: