The Lizzie Borden Case: An Unsolved Murder.
On the morning of 4 August 1892, a terrible crime happened in Fall River, Massachusetts, which became one of America’s most famous murder cases: the brutal axe killings of Andrew and Abby Borden.
On that fateful day, Andrew Borden, a wealthy businessman, & his wife Abby were found dead in their home on 2nd Street (now known as the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast).
Andrew’s skull was found crushed from multiple strikes in the living room, and Abby’s body was found similarly wounded in the upstairs guest room.
Media attention and the main suspect
The murders shocked the town and attracted massive media attention. Lizzie, the couple’s youngest daughter, became the main suspect almost immediately. Lizzie’s story repeatedly changed as to where she was when the murders happened. She first claimed to be in the barn, but this changed to other locations in the house.
Key pieces of evidence included the questionable timeline of events, Lizzie’s behaviour after the murders, and a rumoured family dispute over inheritance. Led the police to question her motives & actions surrounding the event.
The Trial & Acquittal
The trial began in June 1893, attracting national attention. Lizzie’s defence argued that the evidence was entirely circumstantial & highlighted the absence of a murder weapon. The prosecution struggled to provide a definitive motive, leading to considerable reasonable doubt. After a highly publicised trial, Lizzie Borden was acquitted on 20 June 1893. Public opinion remained divided, with many believing in her guilt despite the not guilty verdict. After the trial, Lizzie & her older sister, Emma, inherited their father’s substantial estate, allowing them to live comfortably. Following the trial, Lizzie changed her name to Lizbeth and continued her life, albeit under the scrutiny of a judgemental public. She died in 1927, but the mystery surrounding her family & the murders never truly faded.
Hauntings and Paranormal Activity
Many claim to have experienced unexplained phenomena, such as: Apparitions: Guests have reported seeing ghostly figures, including that of Lizzie Borden, Abby and Andrew, and the ghosts of two children murdered by their mother at a house next door in 1848,
Strange Noises: Eerie sounds, including whispers, footsteps, and morose crying, have been reported, particularly in the rooms where the murders occurred.
Cold Spots: Visitors have noted sudden drops in temperature, often felt in the areas where the murders took place.
The basement, where many believe the spirits linger, is often considered the most haunted part of the house. It is most certainly eerie.
Whether viewed as a tragic story of family strife or a haunting cautionary tale of unchecked ambition, the legacy of Lizzie Borden continues to fascinate both historians and ghost hunters alike, ensuring that the Borden family’s story will endure for generations to come.
My visit.
Me and my family visited the Lizzie Borden house on a bright and sunny Tuesday, 27th August. Our guide was Ryk, who told the story as we walked around the house. If you take a tour, make sure you get the extended basement tour; it is well worth it.
The trial of lizzie borden by Cara Robinson
visit the Lizzie Borden House website here.