Ed Gein: How Old Was This Notorious Murderer?

Ever wondered about the age of infamous serial killers? Today, let's dive into the timeline of Ed Gein, a name that sends chills down the spine of true crime enthusiasts. Why? Because Ed's story is a twisted tale that spans decades, and his age at the time of his crimes might just surprise you.

Early Life: A Young Gein

Born in 1906, Ed Gein grew up in Wisconsin, in a small town called Plainfield. His father died when he was just a kid, leaving him and his brother, Henry, with their overbearing mother. Now, you might be thinking, "How does a young Gein fit into this grim picture?" Well, young Ed was already showing signs of the disturbed individual he would become.

As a teenager, he was known for his strange behavior. He was a loner, preferring the company of animals to people. He'd often be found wandering the woods, talking to himself. But hey, we've all been a little weird as teens, right?

Murderous Tendencies: A Middle-Aged Gein

Fast forward to 1954, Ed Gein was now a 48-year-old man. This was the year he committed his first known murder. But hold on, didn't he start his killing spree earlier? Well, that's the thing with Ed. His crimes were so bizarre, it took a while for the pieces to fall into place.

Gein murdered Bernice Worden, the owner of a local hardware store. But here's where it gets creepy. He didn't just kill her; he took her body, and that's when the police discovered the true extent of his madness. His house was a shrine to death, filled with body parts and homemade trophies. So, at 48, Ed Gein was not just a murderer, but a full-blown necrophile.

But wait, there's more. Gein confessed to killing another woman, Mary Hogan, in 1954 as well. That's two murders in one year, and our man Ed was just getting started.

La vera storia di Ed Gein | Rolling Stone ItaliaLa vera storia di Ed Gein | Rolling Stone Italia

Caught and Convicted: An Older Gein

Gein's crimes didn't stop there, but he didn't commit any more murders after 1954. Why? Because he was finally caught. You might be thinking, "Well, that's a relief," but remember, Ed Gein was just getting started in his killing spree. He was 48 when he was caught, but he had a long life of crime ahead of him.

Gein was convicted in 1958 for the murder of Bernice Worden. He was sentenced to life in prison, but he never spent a day behind bars. Why? Because he was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Instead, he was sent to a mental institution, where he spent the rest of his life.

Ed Gein died in 1984, at the age of 77. That's right, folks. Ed Gein lived a long life, filled with crimes that still haunt us today. So, the next time you're wondering about the age of notorious criminals, remember Ed Gein. He was just getting started in his murderous career at an age when many of us are planning our retirements.

But hey, let's not end on a morbid note. Instead, let's remember that age is just a number. It's what we do with our lives that truly matters. And in Ed Gein's case, it's a chilling reminder that evil knows no age limit.