There is no evidence that Lizzie Borden was ever involved in a romantic relationship. Despite a lack of proof, however, several people have been identified as possible lovers. Some have speculated that she was involved with the family’s live-in maid, Bridget “Maggie” Sullivan. According to this theory, the two women were discovered by Lizzie’s stepmother, Abby Borden, and Lizzie killed her in 1892. Bridget was then involved in a cover-up.
Others have alleged that Lizzie was romantically involved with the actress Nance O’Neil. The two met in 1904, while Nance was on tour in Boston. They developed a close relationship, and Lizzie entertained Nance and other actors at her Maplecroft mansion in Fall River, Massachusetts. In addition, there were reports that Lizzie provided financial assistance to Nance. In 1905 Lizzie and her older sister, Emma, had a falling out, and Emma left Maplecroft. Some believe the dispute was caused by Emma’s disapproval of Nance. Lizzie and Nance also drifted apart as the actress continued the tour with her theater company.