Why Did Emma Borden Cut Off Lizzie Entirely?

For those who are well-versed in true crime and history, the names Lizzie and Emma Borden might immediately conjure the infamous Lizzie Borden axe murders. However, there is another intriguing side to the Borden family story that often gets overlooked. Why did Emma Borden suddenly cut off her sister entirely? This article delves deep into the reasons behind this dramatic turn of events, examining the complex family dynamics, historical context, and potential financial disputes.

Family Dynamics and Historical Background

The Borden family, hailing from Fall River, Massachusetts, was once one of the richest and most respected in the area. Emma and Lizzie Borden, the daughters of the wealthy prosperous Abby Borden, grew up amidst great wealth and privilege. However, as the sisters reached adulthood, cracks began to appear in the surface of their relationship due to underlying tensions and contrasting personalities. Joseph W. Borden, Lizzie's husband, was a key figure in these dynamics, but his exact role in the family's problems isn't always clear from existing historical records.

Financial Disputes and Complex Ties

The primary reason often cited for the sisters' falling out was a series of financial disputes. The Borden family property, which included a house and several other investments, was left to the sisters by their mother after her passing. However, the manner in which the estate was managed and the distribution of assets became a point of contention. According to several historical accounts, Emma suspected that Lizzie and Joseph were using the estate to their own financial advantage, at the expense of Emma's fair share. These financial disputes were seen as a breach of trust and led to a severe rift between the sisters.

Emma's Accusations

Emma Borden, known for her stern and aloof personality, became increasingly suspicious and resentful. She accused Lizzie of spending large sums of money on luxuries and lavish affairs, while she was forced to live within the strict confines of a budget imposed by her sister and her husband. These accusations fueled Emma's desire for independence and control of her own life and assets. Gaining support from family and local contacts, she initiated a plan to cut Lizzie out of her inheritance and claim a larger share of the Borden wealth.

The Significance of the 'Cut Off'

The act of cutting Lizzie off entirely was a dramatic and final move by Emma. This includes a complete severing of all financial ties, emotional support, and communication. Emma Borden was known for her decision-making with little room for compromise, and the subsequent estrangement of her sister reflects this strong-willed personality. The precise date of this estrangement is unclear, but it is believed to have occurred in the years following the Lizzie Borden murders in 1892, as the sisters lived in close proximity for a few years afterward.

Historical Speculations and Evidence

While the exact reasons for the sisters' parting ways are still subject to speculation, several historical documents and testimonies hint at the intricate series of events. Emma Borden, with the support of an attorney, attempted to legally invalidate a will that favored Lizzie and Emma's portion of the estate. Though these legal pursuits were unsuccessful, the attempt itself was a definitive sign of Emma's determination to assert her rights and her sister's wrongdoings.

Conclusion

The reasons behind Emma Borden's decision to cut Lizzie off entirely are complex and multifaceted. They encompass financial tensions, family dynamics, and personal suspicions. While the contentious dispute over the Borden family estate remains a source of historical intrigue, it also serves as a critical examination of the challenges faced within the walls of a wealthy and powerful family.

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