Lizzie Borden: Unraveling the Mystery with Carlton Holden
For some reason this case sticks around, and I think it's because it is an unsolved case, an unsolved mystery as to what really happened in that household.
Carlton Holden takes listeners on a deep dive into one of America's most notorious unsolved mysteries: the case of Lizzie Borden. Accused and later acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother with an axe in 1892, Lizzie's story has fascinated generations. In this episode, Holden shares his compelling theory about what really happened that fateful day in Fall River, Massachusetts. Holden begins by painting a vivid picture of the Borden household, far from the glamorous Victorian image.
Instead, it was a modest home lacking modern amenities like electricity and running water. Andrew Borden, Lizzie's father, was a successful casket maker, but the family was not rolling in wealth. Holden meticulously lays out the evidence that he believes points to Lizzie's guilt. He highlights her presence in the house during the murders and her suspicious behavior afterward. For instance, Lizzie reportedly burned a dress she claimed was stained with paint but could have been blood.
She also gave conflicting statements about her whereabouts on the day of the murders. Diving deeper into Lizzie's character, Holden notes her volatile relationships within the family. Lizzie had frequent arguments with her stepmother, Abby, and a strained relationship with her father. Her odd behavior after the murders—like giggling shortly after discovering her stepmother's body—adds another layer to Holden's argument. Holden doesn't stop at just pointing fingers.
He explores various motives that might have driven Lizzie to commit such a heinous act, from financial gain to revenge against her father for perceived mistreatment. He even considers alternative theories, like the involvement of Lizzie's uncle, but ultimately circles back to Lizzie as the prime suspect. The episode also delves into why this case continues to captivate public imagination. Despite extensive investigation and speculation over more than a century, Lizzie Borden's story remains an enigma.
Holden's theory adds yet another intriguing perspective to this enduring mystery. Tune in to hear Carlton Holden's full theory and gain new insights into the Lizzie Borden case.