Lizzie’s Boston Bulls

Pine Ridge Pet Cemetery has the distinction of being the oldest animal burial ground operated by a humane society in America.  Located in Dedham, Massachusetts, the memorial park is the final resting place for countless beloved pets, including three of Lizzie Borden’s black and white Boston Bull terriers. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893, the year Miss Lizzie and her sister Emma moved into their swank mansion on French Street following Lizzie’s acquittal.  Boston bulls were the lap pet of choice among Boston’s upper crust Back Bay society matrons, so it is no surprise Miss Borden desired the blue blood breed.

Lizzie’s dogs were all buried  in 1928, the year after her own burial, so were most likely unearthed from the back yard of Maplecroft for a more noble final planting in Dedham.  Miss Borden enjoyed country drives with her dog du jour perched on a little shelf beneath the back seat window.  Her faithful companion was no doubt, a great solace in her lonely hours.