One of Fall River's well-to-do citizens around this time was Andrew Borden, a businessman who managed several textile mills and owned various commercial properties. Although Borden was very successful in life, it was his death that put the family name in the national spotlight. On the morning of Aug. 4, 1892, the entrepreneur and his second wife, Abby, were brutally murdered in their home. Speculation about the gruesome crime continues to this day, as Borden's youngest daughter was the main suspect at the time of the slayings. Lizzie Borden was later acquitted and lived in Fall River until her death in 1927.
The subject of a number of modern-day books, songs and films, Lizzie is buried in historic Oak Grove Cemetery, 765 Prospect St., which also is the final resting place of many of the city's other affluent 19th-century residents—including Lizzie's father and stepmother.
Visitor Centers
Fall River Office of Tourism One Government Center Fall River, MA 02722. Phone:(508)324-2000
Self-guiding Tours
A map of the Lizzie Borden Trail, which includes the Fall River Historical Society, the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast/Museum and other sites related to the Borden family, is available at the office of tourism and at various locations throughout the town.
Things to Do
Battleship CoveFall River Heritage State Park