Lizzie Borden Society Forum

Hi everyone. I'm an author and just wanted to clear up some details with your help. Jane Gray was Abby's stepmother, correct? Making Sarah Whitehead her half sister. I believe. And was Sarah the one nicknamed Birdie? And it is Birdie, rather than Bertie, right? I've done so much research I can't find these specific details in my notes. Lol. And thanks everyone, this forum is so incredibly helpful!

I believe you are correct. She also had a niece they called Little Abby. According to their own words, Abby was a frequent visitor and often brought them little gifts, like mince pies with a hint of rose water. The ill-fated Mrs. Borden may not have been the perfect stepmother, but I don't see evidence that suggest she was the hateful, monsterous glutton she's often portrayed in pop culture.

Thank you, WFordl! Love these details. Perfect And agreed. I absolutely do not think she was a gluttonous evil stepmother. Oh the gossip. So, also, Birdie w a d not t.... right?

Yes, with a D. I am also a writer and a student of Lizzie Borden. I would enjoy chatting with you more indepth about this fascinating case. Please feel free to message me!

Sounds fun! Same here. Msg me anytime, WFordll. I'd love to hear your take. Lizzie is my favorite topic!

I always understood that Sarah Whitehead's nickname was Bertie, not Birdie. This information is, I believe, stated in several books

Yes, jcurrie.
The listing in Hoffman’s book, Yesterday in Old Fall River says Sarah Bertha (Gray) Whitehead, 1864-1932.
“Bertie” is short for Bertha.

And:
Jane Gray is mother of Sarah Gray, Abbie Borden’s 1/2 sister. Sarah Gray married George W. Whitehead.
Abbie Potter is their daughter. We call her "Lil Abbie".
She is Abbie Whitehead Potter.

Jane Gray is Abbie Borden’s stepmother and the one who sold her 1/2 house to Andrew and Abbie Borden that caused all the ruckus in the Borden family.