Who was Lizzie Borden? Unraveling the Infamous Case from Netflix's Monster
Lizzie Borden became infamous after her father and stepmother were brutally murdered in 1892, an event that has since been immortalized in Netflix's Monster series. Ella Beatty portrays Lizzie in this eight-episode season, delving into one of true crime's most intriguing stories.
A Brief Glimpse into Lizzie Borden's Life
Born on July 19, 1860, in Fall River, Massachusetts, Lizzie lost her mother at a young age. Her father, Andrew Borden, and his second wife, Abby Durfee Gray (stepmother), were murdered on August 4, 1892—an event now known as the "axe murders."
Lizzie had an elder sister, Emma, who died in 1927. Following her mother's death, Lizzie's father remarried, and their relationship with Abby was reportedly strained due to financial disagreements.
The Infamous Murders and Trial
On the fateful day, Andrew and Abby were found dead in their home, allegedly murdered by their daughter, Lizzie. She went on trial but was acquitted of both counts despite circumstantial evidence and her attempted purchase of prussic acid.
A well-known rhyme echoes the tragedy:
"Lizzie Borden took an axe and gave her mother 40 whacks / And when she saw what she had done, she gave her father 41."
Another intriguing detail is Lizzie's alleged burning of a dress days after the murders, which prosecutors suggested could have been an attempt to destroy evidence.
The Legacy of Lizzie Borden
Lizzie returned to Fall River after her trial and inherited her late father's wealth. She lived in a grand home until her death in June 1927 at age 66. Her life and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the murders have captivated audiences, as evidenced by Netflix's Monster series.