Henry Howard Holmes

Serial Killer

H.H. Holmes: America's First Serial Killer

Introduction

Henry Howard Holmes, born Herman Webster Mudgett on May 16, 1861, is often considered America’s first known serial killer. Operating primarily in Chicago during the late 19th century, Holmes gained infamy for his elaborate "Murder Castle," a hotel designed for luring, torturing, and killing his victims. His crimes were discovered in 1894, leading to his arrest and eventual execution.

The "Murder Castle"

Holmes built a three-story building at 63rd and Wallace in Chicago, later known as the "Murder Castle." Under the guise of a hotel for visitors attending the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, it was a labyrinth of soundproof rooms, secret passages, trapdoors, and a basement equipped for body disposal. Many of his victims checked into the hotel but never checked out.

Crimes and Victims

Holmes lured individuals with promises of work, romance, or lodging, only to end their lives in brutal ways. Some victims were asphyxiated, others were gassed, while some were subjected to crude surgical experiments. He often disposed of bodies in his basement, stripping flesh from bones to sell skeletons to medical institutions. ...Read More

Confirmed Victims: (10)

Julia Smythe Conner Age: (31), Date of Death: December 25, 1891

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Suspected Victims:

Doctor Robert Leacock , Date of Death: 1886-05

Unnamed boy , Date of Death: 1886

Unnamed boy , Date of Death: 1886

Doctor Russell , Date of Death: Late 1887

Rodgers , Date of Death: 1888

Charles Cole , Date of Death: 1888

Lizzie , Date of Death: 1888

Sarah Cook , Date of Death: 1888

Mary Haracamp , Date of Death: 1888-05-05

Russell , Date of Death: 1890

Rasine Van Jassund , Date of Death: 1891

Robert Latimer , Date of Death: 1891

Wade Warner , Date of Death: 1891

Unnamed banker , Date of Death: 1891

Unnamed woman , Date of Death: 1891

Virginia Anna Betts Age: (24), Date of Death: February 8, 1892

Eva Gertrud Conner , Date of Death: July 18, 1892

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H.H. Holmes and the Murder Castle: Topics in Chronicling ...

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