NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — For 128 years, the mummified remains of an unknown man, affectionately known as “Stoneman Willie,” have rested inside a Pennsylvania funeral home.
Now, this mysterious figure is finally set to receive a proper burial. His story, one of accidental mummification and a century-long journey, captures the curiosity of history enthusiasts and locals alike.
The Enigmatic Stoneman Willie:
The tale of Stoneman Willie begins with his arrest over a century ago. In 1895, a man who would later become America’s oldest mummy found himself in police custody.
To conceal his true identity, he provided a fake name when arrested for pickpocketing. This enigmatic figure would go on to become an enduring part of Reading’s history.
The Accidental Mummification:
Stoneman Willie’s unique journey into mummification began when he passed away due to kidney failure while in a local jail. The mortician responsible for his preservation, Theodor Auman, was experimenting with innovative embalming techniques. At the time, arterial embalming was a relatively new practice in the late 19th century.
Auman’s embalming process involved injecting embalming fluid into an artery, displacing the blood within the body. A drain tube facilitated the removal of blood from the veins.
However, in Stoneman Willie’s case, Auman’s recipe contained an excessive amount of formalin, a chemical used in embalming, leading to an unintended and extraordinary result.
Stoneman Willie’s Unique Appearance:
Today, Stoneman Willie’s preserved body is a remarkable sight. His gaunt figure is dressed in a black suit and bowtie, and he lies peacefully inside a coffin.
What is striking about him is the preservation of his hair and teeth and the leathery texture of his skin. His appearance serves as a testament to the artistry and experimentation of embalming in the late 19th century.
The Final Resting Place:
Stoneman Willie’s true identity remained shrouded in mystery until recently when historical documents shed light on his background.
Born of Irish roots, he will finally receive his proper burial on October 7, 2023. A procession will accompany his body to the Forest Hills Memorial Park, where he will be laid to rest.
A Cherished Local Icon:
In Reading, Stoneman Willie is not referred to as a mere mummy; he is known as “our friend Willie.” Over the years, he has become an iconic figure, not only in Reading’s history but also in its present.
The story of Stoneman Willie serves as a captivating glimpse into the past, an unintentional artifact of the 19th century’s evolving mortuary practices.
As Stoneman Willie is finally laid to rest, his tombstone will bear his true name, allowing a piece of history to emerge from obscurity. This unique journey from arrest to accidental mummification to proper burial is a testament to the enduring curiosity and respect we have for those who came before us.
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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