Letter to the Editor

by Neilson Caplain

First published in May/June, 2007, Volume 4, Issue 2, The Hatchet: Journal of Lizzie Borden Studies.

February 12, 2007

Dear Hatchet:

Browsing among Cape Cod book shops, I came across a tattered paper pamphlet inscribed in pencil, “Fall River.” Reading beyond the first few pages I was delighted to discover an interesting bit of Fall River history.

Going back one hundred and fifty-nine years, when the pamphlet was printed, it seems that Rev. Charles Morgridge allegedly reneged on certain business contracts in nearby New Bedford. The injured citizens brought the minister before the bar of justice. Unfortunately for them, the Court decided in favor of the defendant.

Rev. Morgridge subsequently moved to Fall River and became the minister of the First Christian Church. Not to be further denied, the irate citizens of New Bedford brought their charges before a Committee of the Church. A hearing was held, documents presented, rebuttals made. Once again the minister escaped a guilty verdict, although he was censured for deserting his parochial duties to engage in matters of commerce.

The Committee selected was an auspicious one. It consisted of twelve of the leading citizens of Fall River, among whom were David Anthony and Nathaniel B. Borden.

Mr. Anthony was in the meat business and was one of the founders of the internationally known Swift & Company. Was it not rumored that Lizzie Borden had an affair with a David Anthony, perhaps the grandson of the meat baron ?

And Lizzie could claim that Nathaniel B. Borden, foremost cotton manufacturer and printer, was a far removed relative, they both having been descended from the John Borden who came to this country in 1635. 

Mr. Borden was an illustrious citizen, having served in city, state, and national offices. Lizzie was particularly intrigued with the fact that Mr. Borden lived on the east side of Second Street, just south of Pleasant, perhaps the very place on which Southard Miller later built her very own house at Number 92 Second Street. 

Sincerely,

Neilson Caplain