Missouri's Murderous Matrons: Emma Heppermann and Bertha Gifford

by Victoria Cosner, Lorelei Shannon

At the turn of the twentieth century, people in Missouri experienced unexpected and horrible deaths due to arsenic. Two different women in two different areas of Missouri, and for two different reasons, used arsenic as a means to get what they wanted. Emma Heppermann, a black widow killer, craved money. Bertha Gifford, an angel of mercy, took sick people into her home and nursed them to death. Follow the trails of these women who murdered for decades before being tried and convicted. From Wentzville to Steelville, Emma left a trail of bodies. And Bertha is suspected of killing almost 10 percent of the population of the little town of Catawissa. Authors Victoria Cosner and Lorelei Shannon offer the gruesome history of Missouri's murderous matrons.

Genres: True Crime

128 pages, Paperback

Published March 4, 2019

Reviews

[Garry Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoy The History Press series of true crime titles. Typically more obscure examples of crime history from across the nation. Chance to learn about bad actors in our history that have been lost in the wings and overshadowed by more widely known bad guys. Very much enjoyed the history on these two poisonous characters.

[Debi]

Fascinating and well-researched.

[Raechelle Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew we had such history in Missouri?

[Christy Jo Dieman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a surprisingly well written and interesting little book. I’m not usually a fan of true crime stories but enjoyed this one.

[Jess Conley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book to be well written and researched. This is the first instance of using fly paper at the time. I found both women to be very interesting "characters." I'm glad they were chosen for this book.