Yesterday, on the 118th anniversary of the murders of Andrew and Abby Borden, I had the honor and privilege to conduct the tours of the new Lizzie Borden exhibit at the Fall River Historical Society. I met people from all over the country, each one fascinated by the enigma that is this woman.
Some came because of the publicity that was generated by the news that the Society would be displaying for the very first time the bedspread and pillow shams that were on the guest room bed at 92 Second Street, as the attack on Abby Borden occurred beside them on the floor. Some came because they wanted to learn more about the case, and were happily doing the Lizzie things in Fall River, including a visit to the Lizzie Borden B&B to see their yearly reenactment of the crimes. Yet a few had no idea that yesterday was of some significance to the story, and were merely out and about visiting museums!
One gentleman was genuinely surprised to learn he had accidentally visited BOTH locations on the anniversary of the murders—a date he had no idea was of any significance! He was pleased with himself for his inadvertent luck, and had actually thought that the big show at the B&B was their daily fare. How sweet!
I had loads of questions, including from kids, and was pleased that so many had an informed understanding of the case and were, like me, upset at all the gossip and innuendo that surrounds this story. Of course, the number one question posed was whether I believed that “she did it,” but since I cannot prove anyone in particular did the dastardly deed, I have not an opinion on this matter. I am not being coy, or holding my cards close to my chest, or keeping my theories secret because I am writing a book—I sincerely cannot prove any theory so I cannot offer even an educated guess. There are so many suspects, so many possibilities, so many ways in which these murders could have been carried out, that it can make your head spin.
I met a woman in person for the first time whom I had communicated many times before on the Lizzie Borden Society Forum–and it was like old home week for us. She had an amazing theory, quite original really, about the killings. I cannot share it with you as I am not at liberty to say what was in her mind after studying this case for years. But suffice it to say it was food for thought and made me reexamine the evidence yet another time to consider her theory. I love it when that happens!
The day was like a whirlwind. I was interviewed by the Fall River Spirit, filmed by channel 10, and the story of the exhibit was picked up by the AP and appeared in papers all over the area. 4 pm arrived before I knew it, which made me kind of sad. I was having so much fun talking about Lizzie with people that I didn’t want it to end. My day was filled to the brim with interesting experiences and conversations. The folks were grand and the day could not have been more fun.
Thank you Michael Martins and Dennis Binette for allowing me to be part of this amazing day, in this amazing museum, in this amazing town.
And you, yes you, —you who are reading this blog— get on down to the Fall River Historical Society and see this exhibit. You will be happy that you did. And that is my guarantee!
