Ed Gein’s grave site is located at the Plainfield Cemetery in Plainfield, Wisconsin, where he is buried alongside family members. This evergreen explainer outlines the site’s exact location, cemetery rules, historical context, notable incidents of vandalism, and practical guidance for visitors. We rely on verified records and public documentation to provide a durable, status-focused overview that remains useful over time.
Ed Gein’s Interment Details
Verified Burial Information
Ed Gein was interred in the Plainfield Cemetery following his death in 1984. The plot contains multiple family members, and the precise location is recorded with the cemetery office. Key attributes are summarized below.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Theodore Gein | Death certificate / cemetery records |
| Location | Plainfield Cemetery, Plainfield, Wisconsin, United States | Cemetery office and public records |
| Interment Date | July 1984 | Obituary and burial permits |
| Plot Mates | Parents and relatives | Cemetery lot maps |
| Grave Marker | Standard government-style marker with name and dates | Cemetery inventory |
Site Location and Access
How to Find the Grave
The cemetery is a active municipal burial ground. Use standard navigation to Plainfield Cemetery, and confirm visiting hours with the cemetery office or town authorities prior to arrival. Respect all posted rules and private property boundaries.
- County: Waushara County, Wisconsin
- Town: Plainfield (Village)
- Cemetery: Plainfield Cemetery, maintained by the Town or Village
- GPS Coordinates: Commonly cited as approximately 43.7744° N, 89.2556° W (confirm locally)
Historical Context and Notoriety
Who Was Ed Gein
Ed Gein was a notorious American murderer whose crimes in the 1950s inspired elements of popular culture. His grave site is of interest due to his historical notoriety and the legacy of crimes that included grave robbery. Understanding the crimes helps contextualize ongoing interest in his burial location.
Vandalism and Security Measures
Documented Incidents
The grave has experienced repeated vandalism, including theft and damage to the marker. Cemetery authorities and law enforcement have documented these events over decades, and the site is monitored under standard cemetery protocols. Security measures have been implemented to deter further incidents.
Visitor Guidance and Etiquette
Responsible Visitation
Visitors are encouraged to contact the cemetery in advance for permission and hours. Behavior should remain respectful: no climbing, no unauthorized photography of private plots, and no removal of any materials. Observing local regulations supports preservation of the site and honors the community’s relationship with the cemetery.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Why the Site Remains Notable
Ed Gein’s grave site persists as a point of morbid curiosity and historical study. Its notoriety is tied to true crime discourse, film references, and enduring public fascination, while the site itself remains a managed cemetery plot. Accurate information helps distinguish verified history from myth.