For more than a century, Stoneman Willie, an enigmatic individual in Reading, Pennsylvania, peacefully lay in an exposed casket, displaying the resilient and enduring traits implied by his nickname. The only information available about him pertained to his intoxicated misadventures on the streets of Reading in October 1895, followed by his apprehension for trespassing into a boardinghouse. With a height of 5-foot-11, sandy brown hair, and a moustache, Willie's true identity continued to elude all who encountered him.
Recently, a significant discovery was made by researchers led by Kyle Blankenbiller, the esteemed director of Theo C. Auman Inc. Funeral Home. It has now been determined that Stoneman Willie, previously known as an enigmatic figure, was in fact James Murphy, a visitor from New York with Irish heritage who was attending a convention in town. This breakthrough has resulted in his long-awaited interment, accompanied by a dignified burial and a commemorative gravestone that proudly displays both his given name and his renowned nickname.
Prior to assuming the name Stoneman Willie, James Murphy was previously a tourist in Reading. During his time there, he had the opportunity to participate in a state convention of firefighters. However, he encountered some unfortunate incidents during that week, including being arrested on two occasions. The first arrest was due to public drunkenness, while the second arrest was for burglarizing a boarding house.
Willie unfortunately passed away on November 19 in Berks County Prison due to kidney failure. Regrettably, as he was using a false name, his family was not informed, and his body was entrusted to Mr Auman's funeral home care. Interestingly, a unique embalming technique, originating from Civil War practices, resulted in him becoming remarkably hardened, resembling stone.
Efforts to identify Willie were driven by the dedication of Mr. Blankenbiller and local historians. They diligently searched through numerous records, ultimately confirming his true identity. This process was quite challenging, partly due to the presence of another prisoner, Michael Pohouski, who was also being prepared for burial at the same time.
Even though James Murphy is originally from New York, Willie has been an esteemed presence in Reading for an impressive 128 years. Countless generations of locals have lovingly shared anecdotes about him, fostering a special connection with their history. Paying a visit to Stoneman Willie has become a cherished tradition, almost like a customary milestone.
In the days preceding his burial, visitors respectfully paid their tributes to Willie at Auman's Funeral Home. He rested in repose, elegantly dressed in a tuxedo dating back to the 1890s. Furthermore, Willie was a prominent figure in a parade commemorating Reading's 275th anniversary, albeit with a series of amusing incidents.
In the end, as the sun appeared following the rain, Stoneman Willie was respectfully laid to rest in Forest Hills Memorial Park Cemetery, alongside fellow members of the Reading community. It was a befitting conclusion to a mysterious century-long story.
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