Inside the Lizzie Borden House: Where True Crime Meets Tourism
A historic murder house thrives as a macabre bed-and-breakfast attraction.
1A notorious crime scene reborn
The 1845 Greek Revival home where Andrew and Abby Borden were brutally murdered in 1892 now operates as a museum and inn. Purchased in 2021 by US Ghost Adventures for $1.9 million, the property offers historical tours and overnight stays. The house retains much of its original layout, including the narrow stairways where the murders occurred, though modern amenities like updated kitchens have been added for guests.
2Pop culture's enduring obsession
The Lizzie Borden case has inspired countless adaptations over 130 years, from Ryan Murphy's Netflix series 'Monster' to operas and Halloween costumes. The recent Netflix show has renewed interest in the unsolved double murder. Despite no concrete evidence, popular culture largely portrays Lizzie as the killer, fueled by the sensational 1892 trial and the case's lingering mysteries.
3Ghost tourism business model
US Ghost Adventures operates the property as part of their portfolio of haunted locations, balancing historical preservation with entertainment. Owner Lance Zaal emphasizes historical accuracy while offering ghost-hunting experiences. The house generates revenue through $30 tours, overnight stays ($250-$300/night), and a gift shop selling macabre souvenirs like 'I survived' T-shirts and haunted dolls.
4Authentic yet unsettling details
The museum meticulously recreates the crime scene with period furnishings and mannequins showing the victims' positions. Original bloodstains remain visible in the basement ceiling below Andrew's death site. Staff remove the Abby mannequin from the murder bedroom for overnight guests, though crime scene photos remain displayed throughout the house.
5The economics of morbid curiosity
The property attracts two main visitor types: history buffs and thrill-seekers. Many return multiple times, with some being lifelong Borden case enthusiasts. The business capitalizes on this niche by offering add-ons like axes on pillows ($30) or romance packages. Despite the grim history, the house maintains high occupancy rates year-round.
6Historical accuracy vs. sensationalism
Zaal walks a fine line between respecting the victims and catering to ghost tourism demand. While promoting historical research like paint analysis to restore the home's original colors, the business also offers late-night ghost hunts with dowsing rods and spirit boxes. Ouija boards were banned after an incident where one was stolen and returned with a disturbing note.
7Unanswered questions linger
The case remains officially unsolved since Lizzie's 1893 acquittal by an all-male jury reluctant to convict a woman of such violence. Key mysteries persist: Why was Abby killed first? Where was the murder weapon hidden? With only Lizzie and maid Bridget present that morning, the house's walls could tell a tale that continues to fascinate 130 years later.
8Victorian values meet modern tourism
Andrew Borden's notorious frugality is evident in the preserved home - he refused indoor plumbing despite his wealth as a property owner. This stinginess allegedly fueled family tensions, as Lizzie longed to live in Fall River's wealthier districts. Today, visitors can judge whether money motives outweighed Victorian era prejudices in the jury's verdict.
9The ethics of dark tourism
The Borden house exemplifies how society processes violent history through commercialized storytelling. While some criticize the ax-themed merchandise as disrespectful, others argue it keeps historical interest alive. The property serves as a case study in balancing education, preservation, and entertainment in locations with traumatic pasts.