Ed Gein Biography: The Real Story Behind the “Butcher of Plainfield”
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Discover the chilling life story of Ed Gein, the infamous American murderer and grave robber whose crimes inspired horror movies like Psycho, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and The Silence of the Lambs.
Who Was Ed Gein?
Ed Gein, born Edward Theodore Gein on August 27, 1906, in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, was an American murderer and body snatcher. His gruesome crimes shocked the world in the 1950s, earning him the nickname “The Butcher of Plainfield.” Gein’s twisted life later inspired some of Hollywood’s most iconic horror villains, making him one of the most infamous figures in criminal history.
Childhood and Family History
Ed Gein was brought up by his alcoholic father, George Gein, and his controlling mother, Augusta Gein. His psychological growth was significantly impacted by his mother’s strong religious convictions and disdain for women. Gein spent the majority of his early years under his mother’s authority while growing up alone on a secluded farm in Plainfield, Wisconsin. Gein experienced a life of mental instability and loneliness as a result of his growing withdrawal following the deaths of his parents.
The Horrific Crimes of Ed Gein
In November 1957, local police arrested Ed Gein after the disappearance of hardware store owner Bernice Worden. A search of Gein’s farmhouse revealed shocking discoveries — human remains, furniture made from body parts, masks crafted from human skin, and preserved heads. Investigations later revealed that Gein had exhumed corpses from local graveyards to satisfy his morbid fantasies.
Although he was linked to multiple crimes, Ed Gein was officially charged with two murders — Bernice Worden and tavern owner Mary Hogan.
Mental Health and Trial
In 1958, Ed Gein was deemed legally ill and incompetent to stand trial. After being admitted to Central State Hospital for the Criminally Insane in Wisconsin, he was subsequently sent to Mendota Mental Health Institute. He was convicted of first-degree murder in 1968 after being determined to be mentally competent to stand trial, but he spent the remainder of his life in psychiatric care.
Death
At the age of 77, Ed Gein passed away on July 26, 1984, from cancer-related respiratory failure. In Plainfield Cemetery in Wisconsin, where he had previously desecrated graves, he was laid to rest by his family.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Despite his horrific crimes, Ed Gein’s life left an undeniable mark on popular culture. He became the inspiration behind several fictional characters, including:
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Norman Bates in Psycho (1960)
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Leatherface in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
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Buffalo Bill in The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Gein’s disturbing story continues to fascinate true crime enthusiasts and filmmakers, serving as a grim reminder of how human obsession and isolation can turn deadly.
Key Facts About Ed Gein
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Full Name: Edward Theodore Gein
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Date of Birth: August 27, 1906
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Place of Birth: La Crosse County, Wisconsin, USA
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Crimes: Murder, Grave Robbing
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Victims: Bernice Worden, Mary Hogan (confirmed)
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Date of Death: July 26, 1984
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Known As: The Butcher of Plainfield