In the annals of true crime, few cases have captivated the public’s imagination as much as the infamous Lizzie Borden murder case. In 1892, Lizzie Borden was accused of brutally killing her father and stepmother with an axe in their Fall River, Massachusetts home. Although she was acquitted at trial, the case has left a lasting legacy and sparked countless theories and speculation.
One question that continues to intrigue armchair detectives and historians alike is: where is the Lizzie Borden axe? The murder weapon, believed to be an axe or hatchet, was a central piece of evidence in the trial. While the axe used in the crime was never definitively located, there are a few theories as to its whereabouts.
One theory suggests that Lizzie Borden may have disposed of the axe after the murders. Some believe she may have thrown it into nearby bodies of water, such as the Taunton River or the Quequechan River. Others speculate that she may have buried it in a hidden location, perhaps on the property where the murders took place.
Another theory proposes that the Lizzie Borden axe was in fact preserved and put on display. It is rumored that the Fall River Historical Society, located near the Borden family home, may have acquired the weapon. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, leaving it as another piece of the puzzle in this enduring mystery.
While the location of the Lizzie Borden axe remains unknown, its place in history as a symbol of a captivating and macabre murder case is undeniable. Whether it was disposed of or preserved, the axe serves as a chilling reminder of a crime that continues to fascinate and intrigue over a century later.
Where to Find the Lizzie Borden Axe
If you’re interested in learning more about the infamous Lizzie Borden axe and where it can be found today, there are a few key locations to consider.
The Fall River Historical Society: One option is to visit the Fall River Historical Society in Fall River, Massachusetts. They have in their possession the axe believed to be the murder weapon in the Lizzie Borden case. Visitors can view the axe and learn more about its history through exhibits and guided tours.
The Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast: Another place to find the Lizzie Borden axe is at the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast Museum in Fall River. This location was once the home where the infamous murders took place, and the original axe is on display for visitors who take the tour of the house.
The Museum of Crime & Punishment: The Museum of Crime & Punishment in Washington, D.C also has a section dedicated to the Lizzie Borden case. While the original axe might not be on display, visitors can learn about the case through exhibits and artifacts related to the famous murders.
Online Auctions and Collectors: Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that if you’re looking to own a piece of true crime history, the Lizzie Borden axe has been known to come up for sale at online auctions or be sold by collectors. However, be aware that there are many replicas and fakes out there, so it’s important to approach such purchases with caution and do thorough research.
Overall, these are some of the places where you can find the Lizzie Borden axe and learn more about its connection to one of America’s most famous murder cases. Whether you choose to visit the historical society, the bed and breakfast, the crime museum, or explore the collector’s market, the story of Lizzie Borden and her alleged use of the axe continues to captivate audiences today.
The History of the Lizzie Borden Axe
The Lizzie Borden axe is a significant artifact associated with the infamous Lizzie Borden murder case that took place in Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1892.
The case involved the brutal murders of Lizzie Borden’s father Andrew Borden and stepmother Abby Borden. The murder weapon believed to have been used in the crime was an axe, which became a key piece of evidence in the trial.
The Lizzie Borden axe was found in the basement of the Borden family home, known as the “Maplecroft” or “Borden House.” It was an ordinary household tool, similar to the ones used during that era for various purposes, including chopping wood and cutting firewood.
During the trial, the prosecution argued that Lizzie Borden used the axe to commit the murders, while the defense claimed she was innocent. The jury ultimately acquitted Lizzie Borden, and the case remains one of the most infamous unsolved murder mysteries in American history.
Ownership and Display
After the trial, the Lizzie Borden axe remained in the possession of the Borden family. It was eventually acquired by the Fall River Historical Society, where it is currently on display.
The Lizzie Borden axe is a popular attraction for visitors interested in the historical significance of the Borden murder case. It serves as a chilling reminder of the gruesome events that took place and continues to intrigue people to this day.
Impact on Popular Culture
The Lizzie Borden axe has become an iconic symbol associated with the case and has been referenced in various forms of popular culture. It has been featured in books, movies, and even inspired a rhyme: “Lizzie Borden took an axe, And gave her mother forty whacks, When she saw what she had done, She gave her father forty-one.”
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Iron |
| Length | Around 36 inches |
| Weight | Around 2.5 pounds |
| Handle | Wooden |
| Condition | Well-preserved, showing signs of age |
The Lizzie Borden axe serves as a chilling reminder of a gruesome crime that captured the public’s attention over a century ago. Its historical significance continues to intrigue and fascinate people, making it an object of great interest for those interested in true crime and American history.
Famous Museums that Feature the Lizzie Borden Axe
The Lizzie Borden Axe is a notorious artifact that is associated with the gruesome double murder of Andrew and Abby Borden in 1892. The axe was believed to have been used in the murder, and its notoriety has made it a sought-after item for numerous museums and exhibitions around the world.
Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum – Fall River, Massachusetts
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum, located in the actual house where the murders took place, is home to the infamous Lizzie Borden Axe. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the details of the crime, including the axe that was allegedly used in the murders. This museum offers a unique and chilling experience for true crime enthusiasts.
New England Historical Society – Boston, Massachusetts
The New England Historical Society in Boston is another museum that features the Lizzie Borden Axe. This museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of New England, and the Lizzie Borden Axe is a significant artifact in their collection. Visitors can see the axe up close and learn about its role in the notorious Borden murders.
These are just a few examples of museums that feature the Lizzie Borden Axe. Many other museums and exhibitions around the world have also displayed this infamous artifact, allowing visitors to delve into the dark history surrounding the murder case and the infamous axe.
Private Collections with the Lizzie Borden Axe
Since the infamous murders at the Borden house in 1892, there has been great interest in owning a piece of history associated with the case. The axe used by Lizzie Borden to allegedly kill her father and stepmother has become a sought-after item for collectors.
| Collection | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Smith Collection | Boston, Massachusetts | The Smith Collection is one of the most well-known private collections that houses the Lizzie Borden axe. It is displayed in a secure glass case and is considered the centerpiece of the collection. The owner has been collecting items related to the Borden case for over 20 years. |
| Johnson Estate | Salem, Massachusetts | The Johnson family has had the Lizzie Borden axe in their possession for generations. It has been passed down from one family member to another, and is displayed alongside other historical artifacts from the time period. The family keeps the axe in a climate-controlled room to preserve its condition. |
| Anderson Gallery | Chicago, Illinois | The Anderson Gallery is a private museum that specializes in true crime artifacts. The Lizzie Borden axe is one of the highlights of their collection and attracts visitors from around the country. The gallery has strict security measures in place to protect the axe from theft or damage. |
These private collections offer enthusiasts the chance to see and learn more about the Lizzie Borden case. While some may find it morbid to display such an item, others see it as a way to remember and understand a notorious event in history.
