Clues with Morgan Abshur and Kaylin Moore Episode Summary: SERIAL KILLER: Amy Archer-Gilligan Release Date: July 16, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Clues, hosts Morgan Abshur and Kaylin Moore delve into the dark and twisted story of Amy Archer-Gilligan, a serial killer who operated a nursing home in Windsor, Connecticut, in the early 1900s. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the duo unravels how Amy maintained a facade of a trustworthy caregiver while orchestrating the deaths of numerous residents for financial gain.

Background on Amy Archer-Gilligan

Amy Archer-Gilligan, a 34-year-old woman, along with her 58-year-old husband James Archer, settled in the small agricultural town of Windsor, Connecticut, in 1907. Amidst the rapid societal changes of the early 20th century, with families migrating to cities, there was a burgeoning need for care facilities for the elderly and infirm.

Kaylin Moore introduces Amy's venture:

"Amy Archer Gilligan cultivated this really saintly reputation when she opened a nursing home in Windsor, Connecticut. She provided shelter, love, and care for those in need." (01:30)

Establishment of the Archer Home

Seeing an opportunity, Amy and James saved $4,500 (approximately $150,000 today) to purchase a colonial-style home, establishing the Archer Home for Elderly People and Chronic Invalids. The home quickly gained popularity due to Amy's pious demeanor and the well-maintained facility, accommodating about 20 residents with a substantial waiting list.

Morgan Abshur describes the initial success:

"Now you're basically living there and you maybe have like a roommate when you show up... Amy and James are making pretty good money on this business." (11:58)

Early Signs and Suspicions

Despite the home's popularity, subtle red flags began to surface. Amy falsely advertised herself as a registered nurse, a claim that went unchecked due to the era's limited verification methods. Initially, residents and their families were satisfied, as reflected in glowing letters home praising the care provided.

The Role of Carlin Gosley

Carlin Gosley, Amy and James's 22-year-old neighbor and a freelance reporter for the Hartford Courant, became pivotal in uncovering the truth. His personal connection—being Morgan's great-grandfather—adds a unique dimension to the investigation.

Kaylin Moore shares a personal touch:

"Carlin is my great grandfather." (25:16)

The Investigation Unfolds

The turning point came in July 1909 when Lucy Durand, a resident who had paid the $1,000 lifetime fee, reported severe neglect and abuse. The Connecticut Humane Society's investigation found nothing amiss, and Lucy subsequently disappeared without a trace.

Carlin, suspicious of the high mortality rate at the Archer Home, began scrutinizing death certificates. By June 1911, he noticed a troubling pattern: 24 deaths over four years in a facility meant to care for 20 individuals, with causes often vaguely attributed to ailments like kidney disease and heart problems.

Carlin's realization:

"There is something up there." (32:24)

Accusations and Escalation

Further investigation revealed that the Archer Home had been purchasing large quantities of arsenic from W.H. Mason's Drugstore. Notably, Dr. Howard King, the in-house physician, was also a frequent purchaser, suggesting his complicity.

As deaths continued unabated, residents like Franklin Andrews and Charles Smith began falling victim to sudden illnesses and mysterious deaths shortly after arsenic purchases. Despite mounting evidence, local authorities were initially reluctant to act due to Amy's esteemed reputation and financial donations to the church.

Climax of the Investigation

Persistence paid off when Emily, Charles Smith's sister, confronted Amy over her brother's unexplained illness and subsequent death. Armed with a letter revealing Amy's plea for financial assistance, Emily approached the Hartford Courant, prompting Carlin to escalate the investigation.

Kaylin Moore highlights a crucial moment:

"Clifton Sherman decides it's time to turn things over to the superintendent of the Connecticut State Police, Thomas Egan, to do this." (73:01)

The Trial and Aftermath

In May 1916, after exhuming Franklin Andrews' body, authorities confirmed arsenic poisoning through the Marsh test. Multiple exhumations later solidified the case against Amy, leading to her arrest in 1916. Initially convicted of first-degree murder for Franklin Andrews' death and sentenced to death, Amy successfully appealed her case by pleading insanity, largely due to her extensive morphine use.

She was re-sentenced to life in prison and remained incarcerated until her death in 1962 at the age of 89.

Concluding Insights

The case of Amy Archer-Gilligan underscores the vulnerabilities of the elderly and the potential for abuse in care facilities, themes that resonate even today. It also highlights the critical role of vigilant community members and persistent investigative efforts in uncovering hidden atrocities.

Morgan Abshur reflects:

"She kept upping the ante... She really did enjoy the thrill of it." (87:22)

Notable Quotes

• Kaylin Moore (01:30):

  "Amy Archer Gilligan cultivated this really saintly reputation when she opened a nursing home in Windsor, Connecticut. She provided shelter, love, and care for those in need."

• Morgan Abshur (11:58):

  "Now you're basically living there and you maybe have like a roommate when you show up... Amy and James are making pretty good money on this business."

• Kaylin Moore (25:16):

  "Carlin is my great grandfather."

• Carlin Gosley (32:24):

  "There is something up there."

• Morgan Abshur (87:22):

  "She kept upping the ante... She really did enjoy the thrill of it."

Conclusion

The chilling narrative of Amy Archer-Gilligan serves as a historical lesson on the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of transparency in caregiving institutions. Morgan and Kaylin's detailed exploration not only brings to light a lesser-known serial killer but also emphasizes the timeless relevance of vigilance and integrity in preventing such tragedies.