Inside Ed Gein’s True Story: Inspiration for Netflix’s ‘Monster’

Ed Gein has become a focal point in true crime narratives, recently brought back into public consciousness through the Netflix miniseries “Monster: The Ed Gein Story.” His dark tale of horror originated in the quiet town of Plainfield, Wisconsin, where he was known as the “Butcher of Plainfield.” Gein’s heinous actions in the 1950s have continued to inspire various horror films and stories.

Background of Ed Gein

Born on August 27, 1906, Ed Gein was raised on a farm in Plainfield, Wisconsin. He was the son of George and Augusta Gein and had one brother, Henry. The family lived a largely isolated life, with Ed’s mother being particularly strict and religious. Schoolmates noted that Ed was punished for trying to socialize. Following a traumatic childhood, his father passed away in 1940, and four years later, Henry also died under mysterious circumstances. Although there were speculations regarding foul play, investigators ruled out any wrongdoing on Ed’s part.

Mother’s Influence

Following the death of Henry, Ed became increasingly devoted to his mother. After she suffered a stroke, he took care of her until her death in 1945. This deep connection with his mother significantly influenced his later actions.

Criminal Activities

Gein’s criminal history came to light in late 1957 when Bernice Worden, a local hardware store owner, went missing. Investigators discovered a receipt linking Gein to her disappearance. When the police arrived at Gein’s property, they made shocking discoveries.

• Worden’s mutilated body was found hanging in his shed.
• Other grisly findings included human skulls and household items made from human remains.
• Items included masks made from female faces, a corset made from human skin, and Worden’s head.
• Authorities also uncovered remains of Mary Hogan, a tavern owner who had been missing for three years.

Gein confessed to murdering both Worden and Hogan. He also admitted to grave robbing at least nine cemeteries, driven by a desire to keep human flesh, which he thought would allow him to be closer to his mother.

Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

Gein was arrested and charged with Worden’s murder. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity and was initially deemed unfit for trial. Following psychiatric evaluations, he was found guilty in 1968, but later deemed not guilty by reason of insanity during subsequent proceedings. He was never tried for the murder of Hogan or the grave robberies.

Ed Gein spent the remainder of his life in psychiatric facilities until his death from respiratory failure, related to lung cancer, in 1984, aged 77.

Legacy of Horror

Gein’s horrifying actions inspired some of the most renowned horror films, including “Psycho” and “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.” His life serves as a reminder of the thin line between madness and reality, showcasing a disturbing narrative that resonates in popular culture today.