Is the Lizzie Borden House Haunted? What ‘Monster’ Viewers Need to Know

The fourth season of ‘Monster’ has drawn viewers back to Fall River, Massachusetts, sparking a recurring question: Is the Lizzie Borden House haunted? All eight episodes of the season were released on Netflix worldwide on September 17.

The actual site of the infamous murders has become a notable destination. In 1892, Andrew and Abby Borden were brutally killed with an axe, and the house is now marketed as America’s Most Haunted House. With the Netflix drama reigniting interest in the legend, ghost stories are reaching a new audience.

The property’s management embraces its haunted reputation. The official website features a carefully restored inn and museum that operates daily from morning until midnight, known for its unexplained phenomena. The house serves as both a historical lesson and a ghostly experience.

Specific folklore surrounds the site. US Ghost Adventures claims the spirits of the Borden family still linger, with Andrew reportedly being particularly restless. Tour guides have even recounted experiences of being punched in the back by his spirit. Guests sleeping in his room are advised to leave a monetary tribute to appease his money-hungry ghost.

Visitors can also engage in ghost hunts on the first floor and in the basement, with admission including ghost hunting equipment for group use. This interactive approach allows guests to personally explore the legend.

Reported encounters vary from subtle to bizarre. Patrons, staff, and ghost hunters have described hearing unexplained footsteps and seeing shadowy figures over a century after the murders. Most of these accounts originate from the house’s promotional materials, so they should be viewed as part of the attraction.

Some stories are particularly striking. One guest who stayed in March 2024 discovered a doll lying face down on his bed, which had not been there before. Another account details a photograph that flew off a table in the front parlor, spinning in mid-air before landing at guests’ feet.

The cast of alleged ghosts is surprisingly extensive. A writer from Time Out noted that both victims are said to haunt the house, along with Lizzie, the maid Bridget Sullivan, and several child ghosts associated with the neighboring house. This ensemble fits the narrative of such a famous story.

However, not every paranormal investigator is convinced. An investigator writing for Novel Suspects suggested that the activity feels more like a residual haunt rather than active spirits, potentially fueled by the expectations of visitors.

For those curious about the house’s reputation, overnight stays are available. The home has been renovated for comfort and paranormal investigation, offering tours and lodging. This makes it one of the few true crime scenes available for weekend bookings.

One recent visitor described the experience as intense. A writer from New York spent the night on a Murphy bed in the basement washroom, deemed the most haunted area of the house, as official rooms were fully booked during the October rush. The trip was characterized by a mix of thrill and regret.

The house’s details enhance the eerie atmosphere. A Time Out writer described a cast iron kitchen stove reminiscent of the original one where Lizzie allegedly burned a dress after learning she was a suspect. Such details transform the visit into a journey through the case file.

The Netflix season offers a fresh perspective on the Lizzie Borden murders. Variety describes its tone as playful and vibrant, featuring Ella Beatty as Lizzie, Rebecca Hall as her harsh stepmother, Charlie Hunnam as her detached father, and Vicky Krieps as the new maid Bridget. In this retelling, the two women conspire to commit the murders for Lizzie’s freedom and safety.

The creative team emphasizes that the show delves deeper than mere shock value. Creator Ian Brennan notes that the season addresses themes of misogyny, gender roles, and the societal pressures faced by Victorian women, marking the first anthology installment to focus on an alleged female killer. Critics are divided, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting a 50% approval rating based on 12 reviews.

Beatty has shared insights into the psychology of her role. In an interview with Netflix Tudum, she explained that each season of ‘Monster’ explores the psychology of its characters, questioning whether they are born or made. This inquiry aligns with the ghost stories, as the real case remains unresolved.

This ambiguity is a significant reason the house continues to captivate people. Lizzie was never convicted of murdering her parents. If the show piques your interest enough to consider a night in the basement, where the Borden legend feels most potent, would you trust the ghost hunters, the skeptics, or ‘Monster’ itself to reveal who truly haunts that house on Second Street?