38 Facts About Lizzie Borden

Who Was Lizzie Borden?

Lizzie Borden is a name that echoes through the annals of American crime history. Known for her alleged involvement in the brutal murders of her father and stepmother, her story has fascinated and horrified people for over a century.

1. Lizzie Borden was born on July 19, 1860, in Fall River, Massachusetts.
2. Her full name was Lizzie Andrew Borden.
3. Lizzie's mother, Sarah Anthony Borden, died when Lizzie was just two years old.
4. Her father, Andrew Jackson Borden, was a wealthy property developer and businessman.
5. Lizzie had an older sister named Emma Lenora Borden.

The Infamous Murders

The Borden murders took place on August 4, 1892, and remain one of the most famous unsolved cases in American history.

6. Andrew Borden was found dead in the family's sitting room, having been struck multiple times with a hatchet.
7. Abby Borden, Lizzie's stepmother, was found upstairs, also brutally attacked with a hatchet.
8. Lizzie was the one who discovered her father's body and alerted the maid, Bridget Sullivan.
9. The murders occurred in broad daylight, which was unusual for such a violent crime.
10. Despite the brutality, there was no sign of forced entry into the Borden home.

The Investigation and Trial

The investigation into the Borden murders was intense and highly publicized, leading to Lizzie's arrest and trial.

11. Lizzie was arrested on August 11, 1892, just a week after the murders.
12. Her trial began on June 5, 1893, in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
13. The trial lasted for 14 days, drawing massive media attention.
14. Lizzie's defense team argued that she was physically incapable of committing the murders.
15. On June 20, 1893, Lizzie was acquitted of all charges.

Life After the Trial

After her acquittal, Lizzie Borden lived a relatively quiet life, though she remained a figure of public fascination.

16. Lizzie and her sister Emma inherited their father's estate, making them quite wealthy.
17. She purchased a large house in Fall River, which she named "Maplecroft."
18. Lizzie changed her name to Lizbeth A. Borden to distance herself from the scandal.
19. Despite her acquittal, many in Fall River continued to believe she was guilty.
20. Lizzie lived in Maplecroft until her death on June 1, 1927.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Lizzie Borden's story has inspired countless books, movies, and even a popular nursery rhyme.

21. The infamous rhyme goes: "Lizzie Borden took an axe, and gave her mother forty whacks…"
22. The case has been the subject of numerous films, including the 1975 TV movie "The Legend of Lizzie Borden."
23. Christina Ricci portrayed Lizzie in the 2014 Lifetime movie "Lizzie Borden Took an Ax."
24. The Borden house is now a bed and breakfast, where guests can stay in the rooms where the murders occurred.
25. Lizzie's story has also inspired various stage plays and musicals.

Theories and Speculations

Over the years, many theories have emerged about who really committed the Borden murders.

26. Some believe Bridget Sullivan, the maid, was the true culprit.
27. Others speculate that Emma Borden, Lizzie's sister, had a role in the murders.
28. There are theories suggesting that Andrew Borden had enemies who sought revenge.
29. Some historians argue that Lizzie may have suffered from a mental illness.
30. Despite numerous theories, no conclusive evidence has ever been found to solve the case.

Lizzie Borden in Popular Culture

Lizzie Borden's story continues to captivate audiences, making her a lasting figure in popular culture.

31. The 2018 film "Lizzie" starred Chloë Sevigny as Lizzie Borden.
32. Lizzie has been referenced in various TV shows, including "The Simpsons" and "Supernatural."
33. The Borden murders have inspired true crime podcasts and documentaries.
34. Lizzie Borden's case is often discussed in criminology and forensic science courses.
35. Her story has become a symbol of American folklore and mystery.

The Borden House Today

The Borden house remains a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

36. The house is located at 230 Second Street in Fall River, Massachusetts.
37. It has been restored to look as it did in 1892, complete with period furnishings.
38. Guests can take guided tours to learn more about the Borden family and the infamous murders.

Final Thoughts on Lizzie Borden

Lizzie Borden's story remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in American history. Her life, trial, and the infamous nursery rhyme have cemented her place in popular culture. Whether she was guilty or innocent, the fascination with her case shows no signs of fading. The combination of unsolved crime, a sensational trial, and the societal norms of the late 19th century make her story endlessly compelling.

Understanding the facts about Lizzie Borden helps us appreciate the complexities of historical events and human behavior. It also reminds us that some mysteries may never be fully solved, leaving room for endless speculation and debate. So, next time you hear the name Lizzie Borden, you'll know there's much more to her story than just an old rhyme.